Ujamaa Place: Building a Safe Village
OTIS ZANDERS SHAREs THE IMPORTANCE OF UJAMAA pLACE'S THEORY OF TRANSFORMATION FOR YOUNG MEN IN THE VIDEO ABOVE.
Ujamaa Place assists young African American men between the ages of 18 and 30 on a journey of transformation, rooted in the philosophy of African American culture and empowerment – that everyone is important, valuable, worthy and lovable. As Ujamaa Place celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, CEO Otis Zanders reflects on the organization’s theory of transformation.
“Coming to Ujamaa, I see myself in these men,” Otis says. “And I always try to create that safe village. And I think what separated me from most is I grew up in a safe village. And I try to create that same atmosphere here at Ujamaa.”
This interview was filmed prior to the murder of George Floyd.
Keep the Stories Coming
Stay connected with stories about how people across the state of Minnesota are responding to This Present Moment with generosity, compassion, courage and creativity.
More Stories
Brass Solidarity: Bringing Music to George Floyd Square
Trumpet player Butchy Austin and his band, Brass Solidarity, use their sound for good every Monday in George Floyd Square.
See the project
Minnesota Latino Museum: Celebrating Mexican and Latino Art and Culture
Learn how one organization is establishing an arts and cultural landmark in Saint Paul.
See the Highlights
Announcing Our 2025 Facing Race Award Recipients
This year’s awards recognize five Minnesotans building solutions that unite instead of divide from Saint Paul and Minneapolis to Duluth and Winona.
Read the News
Making Red Wing an Arts & Culture Destination
Art adds value to every community – and in Red Wing, Minnesota, a collaboration is bolstering economic growth and cultural vibrancy.
See the Highlights
A Letter from Chanda On Her First Day
Chanda Smith Baker, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation President & CEO, shares a note to community on her first day leading the Foundation.
Read the letter
Inspiring Generosity in the Arts
At a recent Giving+Together event, art leaders addressed the economic and cultural benefits of the arts in our lives.
See the Highlights
Warroad RiverPlace: Where Art Meets Community Engagement
Learn how one arts nonprofit is making art more accessible in Warroad.
Read the story
Chanda Smith Baker Named President & CEO of the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
Meet the Foundation's New President & CEO in this letter to community from Board Chair Dr. Joseph Lee.
Read the news