Award-winning teen documentarian who installs hydroponic gardens in places of need

This week, Ira spoke with Steven Hoffen, an award-winning teen documentarian who installs hydroponic gardens in places of need. In this growing episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Steven talks about how he developed an interest in hydroponics; why he decided to do a documentary on the subject; how he started a non-profit to fund and place hydronic equipment in areas of food need; using a sustainable technology to supplement or alleviate food insecurity; how his film project led him to great partnerships; how he set up the Growing Peace Foundation; expanding chapters to others states; receiving awards for his work; and what he wants for the future of the organization.

Steven Hoffen, a New York City high schooler, was inspired to take action after visiting Israel, where Arab and Jewish women often collaborate in hydroponic gardening. During the early COVID-19 pandemic, Steven documented their efforts through remote interviews, highlighting meaningful collaboration despite their cultural differences. Without prior experience, he created the award-winning documentary, “Growing Peace in the Middle East,” which was recognized at over 100 film festivals worldwide. To further his mission, Steven founded the nonprofit Growing Peace Inc., in 2021 to help marginalized communities gain access to healthy produce through hydroponic gardens. The organization has installed hydroponic gardens in Israel and New York City, helping food pantries, correctional facilities and other organizations, including Hope House in NYC.

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