Today we’d like to introduce you to Diamond Moss.
Hi Diamond, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
You can say the seed was planted back in high school, attending Prairie View A&M University 4-H Summer Camps and STEM camps. Learning animal science, nutrition and sustainable living skills sparked an interest this city-raised guy never experienced. After entering college at PVAMU as an engineering major, many of those I was surrounded by were, in fact, majoring in Agriculture. Two semesters later, after a talk with a future AG department colleague, I switched over and the rest is history. I fell in love with Plant Sciences and nutrition. AfroGreen’D began after to give back to communities the skills and traits of self-sustaining practices and healthier living.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Between Texas bi-polar weather and plant devouring insects, there has been a balance of obstacles and successes. Starting an organization dealing with growing food did not begin with people as open to the idea as assumed. From relatives, colleagues and mentors questioned my judgment, discouraging and openly admitting how taboo growing or farming is for African Americans, particularly from the south. African-Americans catch a lot of underhand slack for choosing this profession and career path. I mean, for four hundred (give or take) years, the idea of growing food was used against us. Even within the home, we are pushed to become great professionals but not providers.
This struggle between acceptance and happiness weighted heavily and prevented many opportunities. However, once I began to shut off any distractions from my goals and happiness, things began to turn around. I remained consistent in the mission set for myself self and five years later, it paid off. Sometimes, it worries me that it is not implemented within the home as it should be. However, that gives my purpose fuel, to not just change the narrative but to narrate myself. I assist families who want to learn and educate all who want to progress as a family unit and a strong community.
We’ve been impressed with AfroGreen’D, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
AfroGreen’D is an organization of gardeners teaching communities to grow gardens, share cultural knowledge among communities and to live healthy lifestyles. We strive to empower our community and educate them using sustainable living techniques, nutrition and of course, gardening. We believe every life deserves a chance to indulge in self-love and organic mental relief. AfroGreen’D provides hands-on training, demonstrations and service opportunities to all interested with the Fort Worth and Dallas communities. #SeedNowEatLater
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
COVID19 definitively taught many lessons included the most important one: preparation. From a shortage of products, foods and employment losses, people have been eager to learn how to fend for themselves and find a resourceful avenue to provide for their families and loved ones. Covid19 brought a lot of hurt and harm to all of us on this globe and recovery will take time, however, this pandemic has awakened a hunger in communities to be self-reliant, resourceful and patient.
Contact Info:
- Email: afrogreend@gmail.com
- Instagram: afrogreend, @just.diamond_
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/afrogreend
