Environmental Black Futurism Panelist & Team

  • Fabienne "Fabi Mén Beni" Polycarpe

    Fabienne ”Fabi Mén Beni” Polycarpe is a dynamic individual whose diverse background and passion for positive change drive her endeavors in various fields. Born and raised in Miami, Fabi brings a unique perspective shaped by her multicultural upbringing and vibrant community.

    With a Master's degree in Environmental Management and Sustainability, Fabi's academic background underpins her commitment to promoting ecological awareness and fostering sustainable practices. Her expertise in this area is complemented by her experience in development and construction within the luxury sector, where she gained valuable insights into the intersection of urban planning, environmental conservation, and community engagement.

    Fabi's journey towards sustainability and community empowerment led her to found Mèn Beni Gardening. Mèn Beni Gardening means blessed hands in Creole operates on the pillars of ReNew, reConnect, and ReAwaken, addressing not only physical nourishment but also the holistic well-being of individuals and communities. Through initiatives focused on mind, body, and spirit, Fabi seeks to create spaces that promote health, wellness, and connection with nature.

    In addition to her environmental advocacy and community work, Fabi Polycarpe's dedication to environmental sustainability, mental wellness, and food security reflects her belief in the power of collective action to effect positive change. Through her diverse experiences and unwavering commitment, she continues to be a driving force in creating a brighter and more sustainable future for her community and beyond. you can find her on IG & TikTok @menbenigardening

  • Neil Hall *Panelist*

    An agent of change, Neil Hall has devoted his life to coalition building for the sake of equity; transforming communities and institutions to foster a legacy of diversity and inclusion in architecture and design.

    Neil Hall is a unifier and visionary in South Florida's architecture scene. Neil was elected the first Black president of the AIA Miami Chapter, the largest Florida chapter at the time. He took his leadership and experience within the AIA, to the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), serving as President in 2000. Neil Hall's coalition-building also extends to his community, where he organized to redevelop Miami's Historic Overtown. His work led to a significant increase in economic investment in the area for years to come.

    Today, Neil's firm is part of a 900 million project helping remedy the injurious effects of urban planning caused by the bifurcation of Historic Overtown by highways in the 1960s. He is committed to investing in future architects and designers and was a key proponent in the nation's first Design and Architecture High School (DASH); giving the commencement speech for the first graduating class.

    Neill Hall has personally mentored many students, particularly women and people of color to pursue careers in design and architecture. He also created a socially conscious design, art, and culture lifestyle brand called The Urban Collective (TUC). In 2010, TUC produced, Art Africa | Miami Art Fair in Miami's Historic Black community of Overtown.

    It was the first large-scale art fair celebrating the achievement of African diaspora artists and designers during Art Basel, the world’s most prestigious art fair. The Greater Miami Visitor and Convention Bureau has subsequently developed and marketed 'The Art of Black' as a tourist destination.

  • Maya, Forbes *Panelist*

    Maya Forbes, Science & Environment, Education & Volunteer Coordinator at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

    "Maya is a Miami, Florida native who received her bachelor’s degree in anthropology and earned multiple science credits from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida, and is currently pursuing her master’s in biological sciences. Maya is currently working as an Education & Volunteer Coordinator with a focus on Science & Environment at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park and is excited to offer her professional experience and passion for volunteerism, science education, and community outreach!

    Maya gained informal and formal education experience through working at museums in the Miami area and working as a 6th-grade comprehensive science teacher. She’s also an avid volunteer who served in the Peace Corps as a science education volunteer in Mozambique, East Africa. Her experience there was so impactful that she went on to co-found a non-profit organization that offered free STEM education to elementary students in Tanzania, East Africa."

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  • Panelis

    Jamal Wilson *Panelist*

    Jamal Wilson is a passionate advocate for sustainable urban development and cultural enrichment. He currently serves as the Marketing Manager for The Underline, a ten-mile urban trail and public art initiative. Jamal is also the founder of FrequencyBeat, an online platform showcasing global conscious events.

    With a background in Computer Science and a Master's in Environment, Culture, and Media from the University of Miami, Jamal merges technical expertise with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. His journey includes a transformative three-year, twelve-country volunteer expedition across the Americas, focusing on natural building, permaculture, and community development.

    An avid gardener and amateur photographer, Jamal is dedicated to transforming urban spaces into thriving environments, capturing the essence of sustainability and community through his lens.

  • H.Leigh Toney

    H. Leigh Toney *PANELIST*

    H. Leigh Toney, consultant and founder/owner of Ellavations LLC, is a native Miamian and a graduate of the University of Miami and earned her graduate degree from Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. Ms. Toney is a civic philanthropist having chaired the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; served as second vice chairman of the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust Board; and Chairman of the WISH Foundation, Incorporated.

    A serial entrepreneur, Ms. Toney's latest venture, Ellavations, LLC, a social equity consulting firm specializing in higher education, workforce development, communications/media relations, community development, and the environment. All of Ms. Toney's professional as civic works centers on issues that improve the lives of women, children, and the underserved.

  • Aniola Pierre *Moderator*

    Host of You Are Heard Podcast

    Aniola Pierre is the passionate and visionary host of the You Are Heard Podcast, a platform where every voice matters. With a deep commitment to creating a space for diverse perspectives, Aniola aims to amplify voices on critical issues ranging from climate change and healthcare to housing disparities and spiritual holistic practices.

    Aniola's goal is to foster open dialogue and raise awareness on topics that impact our world and our well-being. Through engaging interviews and thought-provoking discussions, she brings together experts, advocates, and everyday people to share their stories and insights, striving to make the world a better place.

  • Sharelle Hall *Sound Bowl Healer*

    Holistic Medicine Woman and Co-Healer.

    On a mission to spread good vibrations and uphold the legacy of divine feminine healing arts, she founded Aya Apothecary Spa—a holistic 'Farmacy' and wellness spa in Miami, Florida. Here, every service is enhanced with herbal remedies and concoctions, ensuring each healing session is deeply effective.

    With over 20 years of experience, Sharelle blends her background in entrepreneurship, design, and guided wellness to serve as a multifaceted holistic practitioner.

    As a yoga instructor, bodywork/energywork therapist, and herbalist, she is passionately committed to self-care and guiding others toward inner peace on their wellness journeys. You can find her@ayaspa_

  • Kimberly Ducasse * Meditation Guide*

    Kimmi Ducasse (She/Her/Hers) is a Mama, Caribbean Herbalist, Energy Worker, & Artist,  tending to the work of her Heart. As a descendant of people from Ayiti, her reverence for plants and their medicine is activated by a deep remembrance. 

    She started Art of Intention to offer herbal remedies to her community & be in an intentional healing practice. She is passionate about working with children in Earth’s playground and stewarding creative spaces for people to deepen in relationship with plants and their own healing. You can find her on IG @artofintention.care