Meet the Team: Akili

Akili McCullough has been a star employee of Whiffletree for a few months now. He interned with us spring of 2024 and stayed on as one of our crew. A cool fact about Akili is that he hiked the whole Appalachian Trail! He’s a great guy to have on the farm…observant, a hard worker, never complaining, always ready for a joke, and really believes in doing good work!

So read on to find out about Akili!

Where did you grow up? Any siblings?

I grew up in Warrenton most of my life and am the youngest of 5 siblings. I have 2 brothers and two sisters. I also attended and graduated from Covenant Christian Academy.

What did you do before you came to farming/Whiffletree?

I worked at a car wash before starting my internship at Whiffletree.

What inspired you to become a farmer?

The pandemic and the riots of 2020 made me more conscious of how fragile the infrastructure and society are. I wanted to be more prepared.

What are some things you didn’t expect to learn that farming has taught you?

I learned that I must simultaneously underestimate and overestimate an animal's intelligence.

How has a farming internship benefited you?

It has given me experience with farming without the up front risk of starting a homestead.

What do you hope to accomplish through farming?

I plan to learn and be more self-sufficient.

How has your role at Whiffletree evolved in your time here?

I have evolved more into a teacher from my start as an intern, though I still have more to learn.

What’s your favorite animal on the farm? And why?

The cows are very simple creatures that really want one thing: grass. The chickens seem to actively try to make your life harder. The pigs are smaller versions of the cows with none of the charm (piglets don't count).

Favorite hobby? Or favorite things you like to do when not working?

Hiking, when time and weather allows, is my go-to hobby.

Favorite food?

Sushi, Mac and cheese, and bacon wrapped meatloaf.

Favorite dish you like to make with a Whiffletree item?

Bacon wrapped meatloaf.