Contact us.
Nfdiversity@nodnow.org
919-349-1312
meet our team
meet our team
Mariama Bah
Founder
Mariama Bah (she/her) is a 25-year-old mental health advocate originally from Guinea, Africa. In 2009, she journeyed to the United States, and she now proudly calls Raleigh, North Carolina her home. Mariama is the visionary founder of Nation of Diversity (NOD), an organization dedicated to addressing homelessness and promoting mental health through the transformative power of creative arts.
NOD actively engages in homeless outreach, offering essential items like hygiene kits, clothing, blankets, and hot meals. Furthermore, the organization hosts community empowerment programs and events that harness the potential of creative arts to encourage mindfulness, foster mental well-being, and inspire creativity. As a passionate advocate for mental health, Mariama Bah has been selected as a Mental Health America's Young Leader Council member.
In addition to her advocacy work, Mariama is deeply involved in running a family-owned coffee business known as Diamond Cafe, with its origins in Guinea Conakry. She is currently dedicated to expanding this business throughout the United States, potentially on a global scale.
During her free time, Mariama finds joy in bringing smiles to people's faces, being around friends, exploring diverse cultures, and expressing herself through various forms of art. Her profound belief is that we are all here to learn from and support one another in creating a world akin to heaven, and she aspires to be remembered as the girl who constantly wore a warm and welcoming smile.
Isaiah
Treasurer and Creative Director
Isaiah is a Durham native who has always felt a calling to use his talents for the betterment of his community. With a background as a music teacher, producer, and author, he has a diverse skill set that he leverages to make a positive impact.
Isaiah's dedication to the causes of homelessness and mental health is deeply personal, influenced by the struggles of close family and friends. He currently serves as the Treasurer for Nation of Diversity, where he manages financial matters, and also holds the role of Creative Director, overseeing creative initiatives for the organization. Isaiah is an integral part of the outreach team and actively works to make a meaningful difference in the community. His life's mission is to use his talents and resources to promote peace, love, and equality within his community.
Kristina
Outreach Coordinator
Kristina, a Gastonia, NC native, proudly carries the heritage of the Geechee Gullah culture of South Carolina, with roots tracing back to West Africa. She obtained her Communications degree from East Carolina University, a testament to her commitment to education.
In her free time, Kristina immerses herself in reading and maintains a dedicated fitness routine. Furthermore, she actively participates in community service and volunteer work. Her overarching aspiration is to assist individuals in reaching their goals and surmounting the challenges they face, a principle that guides her in all her endeavors.
Kristina serves as a valued member of the Nation of Diversity marketing team. As the Outreach Coordinator, she plays a pivotal role in distributing hygiene kits and hot meals to those experiencing homelessness, making a direct and meaningful impact in the community. Additionally, Kristina contributes her expertise to the organization as part of the Event Planning Coordinator team, focusing on planning and executing fundraising events for N.O.D. Her dedication to helping others achieve their goals and overcome obstacles shines brightly in her contributions to the community through the Nation of Diversity.
Teresa
Teresa, a dedicated volunteer with NOD, has been an integral part of the event committee and outreach coordinator team since the start of 2022. Her commitment to organizing events and programs has been instrumental in furthering the organization's mission.
With a remarkable 21-year career in the holistic business, Teresa brings a wealth of experience to her role. Additionally, she has a commendable 11-year history of personal involvement in homeless outreach efforts. As a coach, she imparts her knowledge and expertise to individuals, guiding them toward healthier eating habits and overall wellness. Teresa's extensive background in holistic health and her unwavering dedication to community service make her an invaluable asset to NOD.
Maeve
Storyteller - Hi I made this :)
Maeve is a multifaceted talent with a passion for storytelling, copywriting, and saving the world. She has a BFA in Graphic Design and dabbles in a multitude of fine arts including sculpture and watercolor.
Maeve is the go-to when it comes to developing websites and blogs. With a keen focus on communication, she has made significant contributions to enhancing the digital presence of the Nation of Diversity. But Maeve's talents go beyond her professional role. She is also a dedicated volunteer at NOD, where her enthusiasm for improving the lives of those in her community knows no bounds.
Rjf
Community Outreach Coordinator
Rjf is the newest member of our team and serves as the community outreach coordinator. Her professional background includes working as a nurse for 12 years with her bachelor’s degree in science. She has been a manager of customer service for medical supplies and is a published author. Her soul’s passion is to help communities by being present and living her healing process of “tuning in to Being” as discussed in her book Tuned In to Being (available at bn.com). She is a New Earth-er, happy beam of light!
Raey
Raey Assefa, a Computer Science student hailing from Ethiopia and presently pursuing studies at Wake Tech, exudes a deep passion for technology and creativity. During his leisure hours, Raey immerses himself in the art of video editing and contributes generously to volunteer work.
With a fervent desire to harness the boundless potential of computer science and create a positive influence, Raey currently holds a pivotal role as our graphic designer, video editor, and technology assistant. His dedication to blending technology, creativity, and service makes him an invaluable asset to the team.
Rama
Rama Soumah, currently in her second year at the Bryan School of Business and Economics at UNC Greensboro, is pursuing a double major in Marketing and International Business. In addition to her academic pursuits, Rama passionately indulges in hobbies such as painting, digital art, and crocheting.
Beyond her academic and creative endeavors, Rama holds a heartfelt dream of establishing a home/school for orphaned children in her home country. Her vision is grounded in the belief that these children deserve the love and support necessary for their growth and development, ensuring they are provided with the care and opportunities they rightfully deserve.
Rama is also a vital member of the Nation of Diversity team, serving as the organization's Social Media Coordinator. Her role includes managing and curating content for the organization's online presence, helping to spread the message and values of N.O.D. far and wide.