Help Zen with College Tuition

Zenzéle Uzoma is organizing this fundraiser.

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Hiiiiii! My name is Zen and I love being surrounded by nature and getting my hands dirty. I volunteer to help maintain green spaces all throughout the city. I also run an NPO that creates performance opportunities for progressive black artists called Baltimore Arts Resistance. I was born and raised in Baltimore and take pride in helping my city grow and prosper.

Like many others, I was laid off during the pandemic and had time to consider new career paths and different ways I could help my community succeed. After twenty plus years in the restaurant industry I decided to return to school for botany/farming/gardening, to learn how to sustainably grow food and ethically maintain public green spaces.

My ultimate goal is to help underserved communities acquire ownership of abandoned green lots in their neighborhoods and help them gain access to the tools they’ll need (education, grants, volunteers, equipment, etc.) to raise their own food for both personal use and for profit.

Why do I need your help?

I contracted Covid late last year and now suffer from long Covid. I’m plagued with migraines, joint pain and fatigue. I’m unable to attend school full time, and as a part time student I’m no longer eligible for most grants I previously qualified for. Paying for school out of pocket is no longer an option, as my symptoms also effect how often and how long I can work. My bills, food and fur baby come first so I’ve been forced to put school on hold.

I’ve completed the Master Gardener program through University of Maryland Extension and started the botany program at AACC. I would like to re-enroll at the latter this summer (semester begins May 23rd.) I’m not sure when, or if, I’ll ever be able to attend school full time. The cost is $7,500 for my remaining courses. I’m asking for an additional $500 for textbooks/supplies/equipment.

I appreciate any donations of any amount! I’m also open to grant recommendations for part time students in Maryland. Please share this campaign. Thank you!