Arden Santana
liberal arts educator and transformative advocate
Arden Santana is an esteemed liberal arts educator and transformative advocate with over 25 years of experience in empowering communities through education and civic engagement. As the founder and Executive Director of SĀHGE Academy, Arden pioneers a groundbreaking institution that places civic education at the heart of literacy. Her visionary approach encompasses designing interdisciplinary curricula, fostering professional development, and strategizing for long-term success. As the former Co-founder and Curriculum Developer of Rootabagas Care & Learning Place, Arden nurtured early learners, providing structured and enjoyable environments to foster social and cognitive growth. Throughout her illustrious career as an English Language Arts Teacher in CT & DMV area public schools, Arden's influence on academic performance and departmental leadership earned her widespread recognition.
Ashlynn Savannah
Ashlynn, at the age of 17, successfully graduated from Hamden High School in Hamden, CT. She's now pursuing her passion for filmmaking at Georgia State University. In addition to her studies, Ashlynn is a budding entrepreneur, managing two businesses specializing in cosmetics and offering professional video and marketing consulting services.
Assiata Ayinla
Assiata, in her senior year at High Ville Charter School, is currently undertaking an apprenticeship at the NXTHVN art studio."
Brianna Doctor
Brianna, currently in her senior year at the Cooperative School of the Arts in New Haven, CT, has a specialization in digital art media and is concurrently serving as an apprentice at the NXTHVN art studio.
DeArie Allik
DeArie is a local restaurant owner known for his community activism and entrepreneurial success with 'Dope and Delicious, located in New Haven, Ct
Hafeeza Ture
In the realm of transformative leadership and community empowerment, Hafeeza "Wind" Ture stands as a beacon of unwavering dedication and vision. As the project lead for the Return. Connect. Build Ghana initiative, her background and expertise align seamlessly with the project's mission to bridge cultures, foster economic development, and empower communities.
Lauriann Burt
Laurianne explores the transformative impact of these two elements on an individual's life. It delves into the positive effects of cognitive behavioral therapy on mental and emotional well-being, as well as the creative and personal growth experienced through involvement in special effects, highlighting their combined influence in shaping the individual's life journey.
Luca Rivera
Luca Rivera is presently a senior at James Hillhouse High School in New Haven, Connecticut, with aspirations of building a career in the fashion industry.
Ryan Rugarema
Ryan is an apprentice at NXTHVN and Junior at Hill House High School in New Haven, Ct, and specializes in Mixed Media.
Victor Adeniji
Victor, having recently completed his education at Hill House High School in New Haven, CT, has embarked on the next chapter of his academic journey at UConn University, where he is pursuing a major in business.