Maiya “Simba” Jones the Fulbright Scholar

Sanibonani! I am Maiya Jones, well known as "Simba." A graduating senior at Howard University majoring in criminology and Afro-American Studies. I have been awarded acceptance to the 2023 Fulbright-Hays Zulu Group Project Abroad (Zulu GPA) in South Africa with funding. The Fulbright Program is regarded as one of the most prestigious international education exchange programs in the United States with thousands of applicants each year, the Fulbright is a competitive award. You can learn more about the program I'll be attending here.

While I am also seeking funding through a Fulbright scholarship, the Fulbright will only cover tuition and administrative enrollment expenses. Any money donated will be used to cover the program fee, local travel, passport and visa fees, Inoculations, and bills/utilities concerning my household. I'm grateful for any financial support you might be able to offer, as I can not do it all by myself.

A bit about me:

I am a Black, young woman, independent out-of-state college student, business owner, natural hair influencer, fashion designer and now Fulbright scholar from Miami, Florida. I have lived a nomadic lifestyle since graduating from high school for my education. I began my college career at Louisiana state university for a year then moved to Washington, D.C. to complete my college degree. During that time I taught myself how to sew and operate my own business to support myself, where I make and sell custom clothing for customers around the US. I also have worked multiple jobs and side hustles to get myself through school. It hasn't been easy but I am very self-driven which allows me to be able to achieve any goal I put my mind to. It has always been a dream for me to study abroad in Africa now I have the chance to.

I have always had an immense passion for learning and absorbing African languages and cultures. As I felt it was always a step closer to learning about myself.

If willing now you have a chance to be a part of my journey. “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu” in Zulu means that a person is a person through other people. Thank you for taking the time out to read feel free to spread the word.

I am so grateful for your support!