.png)
In the heart of Anacostia, Washington, DC, a remarkable young leader is making waves in her community and beyond. Ruby Rose, the Chief Inspiration Officer of Women Advancing Nutrition Dietetics and Agriculture (WANDA), is a shining example of youth leadership, dedication, and passion for community service. As Ruby embarks on her journey as an incoming freshman in the Honors Program at Bishop McNamara Catholic High School, her story is a testament to the power of resilience, advocacy, and the unwavering spirit of a true food shero.
Ruby's journey with WANDA began early, inspired by her mother, Tambra Raye Stevenson, who founded the organization to empower women and girls through education, advocacy, and innovation in the food system. Ruby has played a pivotal role in developing "Little WANDA," an aspirational character featured in a bilingual children's book series and a patented doll created by WANDA. Little WANDA encourages girls to become food sheroes in their communities, reflecting Ruby's commitment to fostering a new generation of leaders knowledgeable about food and nutrition.
"Ruby's dedication to community service and her passion for making a difference inspire me every day," says Tambra Raye Stevenson, Ruby's mother and founder of WANDA. "Her work with WANDA and her efforts to improve school lunches, support local shelters, and advocate for food justice demonstrate her commitment to creating a better world. I am incredibly proud of her and excited to see the impact she will continue to make."
Ruby's leadership extends beyond her work with WANDA. At Washington School for Girls, she ran for school council with a platform focused on improving school lunches, showcasing her advocacy for better nutrition and her dedication to her peers' well-being. Ruby has also demonstrated her commitment to helping those in need through her community service projects. She donated over 200 purses to the Harriet Tubman Shelter and actively volunteers at Sisterhood Suppers, events that bring women and girls together to honor local food leaders and support the WANDA Scholars Program.
One of Ruby's most impactful contributions is her support for the WANDA Scholars Program. By volunteering at Sisterhood Suppers and other WANDA events, Ruby has helped raise funds and awareness for scholarships that support 45 girls pursuing college education in agriculture, nutrition, and dietetics in Oklahoma and Nigeria. Her efforts ensure that young women have the resources and mentorship they need to succeed in fields traditionally underrepresented by Black and Brown women.
Beyond her local community, Ruby has shared her message on broader platforms. She has participated in media interviews, was featured in a TEDx talk on "How Women are Reclaiming Food as Medicine," and appeared in a WANDA public service announcement (PSA) empowering women and girls. These opportunities have allowed Ruby to amplify her impact and inspire others to join her in the fight for food justice and community empowerment.
Ruby's dream job is in healthcare, where she aims to educate patients about the profound impact of food on the mind, body, and soul. Her personal experiences, including her connection to someone who has experienced homelessness, drive her passion for making a difference.
We invite you to support Ruby's passion and her impactful work by donating to the WANDA Food Shero Freedom Fund today at http://iamwanda.org/fund. Your contributions will help empower young women like Ruby to pursue their dreams and make a lasting impact in their communities.
Ruby will also coordinate the Sisterhood Supper in Tulsa, a special event that brings women and girls together to celebrate culinary heritage and community unity. Join us for this transformative evening by securing or donating your ticket at http://iamwanda.org/sisterhoodsupper.
Together, we can support Ruby and the next generation of Food Sheroes in their journey to create a more equitable and empowered future. Let's celebrate their achievements and invest in their potential today.
Comments