Bobilya Apendeki is the owner-operator of Hope Farm. She and her family are originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They spent many years in Tanzania before being granted resettlement in the U.S. in 2016. A lifelong farmer, Bobilya speaks Swahili, Kimbembe, and is studiously and fearlessly learning English.

She loves the weather in Houston because it’s not too cold! For Bobilya, farming feels like home because she’s been doing it her “whole life!” Bobilya offers recommendations for others based on her life experiences: take up farming or gardening and take every opportunity to learn in school. She also welcomes volunteers and customers to visit her farm.