Hey beautiful people,

My name is Imani Blue, and I’m honored to share that I’ve been accepted into Columbia University’s Sustainability Management Master’s Program — a dream rooted in years of hard work, community care, and my deep commitment to environmental justice.

As a proud first-generation college graduate from Spelman College, I’ve dedicated my life to climate work and advocacy. From the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama to Argonne National Laboratory and writing my own children’s book about invasive species I’ve used both science and storytelling to push for justice.

But right now, I’m asking for help.

I currently work full-time at Walmart, and I’ve been applying to every scholarship and opportunity I can find. I applied to Columbia through the HBCU Fellowship, however I was rejected. I was offered $20,500 in unsubsidized loans , but Columbia’s total cost of attendance is $54,438 leaving me with over $31,000 to cover on my own.

Why I Need Your Support:

With the current political climate and changes to federal policy, taking out graduate loans has become significantly harder, especially for low-income and first-gen students. I’m doing everything I can but I need help with the $3,000 enrollment deposit by August 26th so I can secure my spot and defer to January 2026 while I work and raise the rest.

This degree isn’t just a piece of paper for me — it’s my path to becoming an environmental lawyer. I want to fight for communities of color that have been ignored, exploited, and placed at the frontlines of climate collapse. I want to make our neighborhoods healthier, safer, and more sustainable to live in starting in the South and expanding globally.

How You Can Help:

Your donation will directly help with:

* My $3,000 enrollment fee to secure deferment

* Tuition & fees at Columbia University

* Housing and relocation support for New York City

* Books, commuting, and student essentials

Even a $5 donation makes a difference and just sharing this with your network helps keep this dream alive.

This Is Bigger Than Me:

I don’t want my dream to be deferred just because I need money. I’ve made it this far with faith, fire, and support from people who believed in me when it got hard. Now, I’m calling on that same village to help carry me through this next door.

Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for investing in a better future — not just for me, but for all the communities I’ll serve.

With love and deep gratitude,


Imani Blue