During Women’s History Month, we are highlighting some of the amazing women who have made their mark on local conservation. Please join us as we celebrate their contributions to communities across North Central Florida.
Women in Conservation: NKwanda Jah
The first thing you need to know about NKwanda Jah: She’s committed to her community. And lucky for us, her heart has found a home in Alachua County.
Hardworking and humble, NKwanda has been highly involved in the Gainesville community for numerous decades. For over 40 years, she’s served on the boards of countless local organizations; collected a vast array of environmental, cultural and service awards; and has thrown herself into everything she does with a passion and commitment so great that even the children of those she’s served have developed personal friendships with her.
Given all of her impressive accomplishments, NKwanda says she’s most proud of one simple thing — the continued survival of the small non-profit she co-founded in 1979, the Cultural Arts Coalition.
Celebrating its 41st anniversary this year, the Cultural Arts Coalition addresses community needs through its targeted local programs, extensive relationship building and continued commitment to the people who need its services. NKwanda is especially proud of the nonprofit’s Environmental Ambassadors Program, where local youth learn about the natural environment while developing on-the-job skills.
The Environmental Ambassadors Program has reached hundreds of local youths since its creation in 1990, where it started with a simple community recycling campaign. Since then, it’s expanded to include environmental education, community cleanups and even resources on food safety and accessibility.
“I’m not sure where my love for the community or environment even started,” Jah said. “I just know that at some point, it became a way of life. I don’t see myself doing anything else.”
NKwanda is still in touch with many of her past program participants, who have gone on to become everything from forest rangers to environmental scientists. And inside one of the many thank-you cards from these program graduates lies the perfect summary of NKwanda’s spirit.
“NKwanda - Thank you for being a rock planted in the center of my life. I love you so much for filling me with joy, and serving as a mother, mentor — and most importantly — friend.”
Science Bus
NKwanda is also working to engage elementary school students in underserved communities by bringing a travelling science bus to them that provides fun, educational, and non-intimidating activities that teach them the basics of science.
Learn more about this project and how you can help support it here.
Spotlight by Lianne D’Arcy, Editorial Intern
