OUR TEAM

FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Uzoma (Uzo) Ngwu is a Nigerian-American filmmaker, artist, and creative entrepreneur from Minnesota whose multidisciplinary work centers the African diaspora. A writer, director, producer, and illustrator, her distinct visual voice has led to freelance animation and illustration work for major clients like Hulu, MTV, VH1, and Adult Swim. Driven by a passion for community and world-building, she is the founder of ZOMA Studios, an independent animation studio, and ZOMA House, a local community art studio and event venue. She holds a B.A. in Art, Film, and Visual Studies from Harvard University, using her background to continuously champion innovative, culturally specific storytelling. You can find her work at uzongwu.com.

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Kemmah Lombel is a Houston born Minneapolis raised multifaceted Liberian artist. From everything behind and in front of a camera, to a page and pen, Kemmah’s passion carries her through multiple art forms. Kemmah has been modeling since childhood and came back to the art form as a teenager. Kemmah’s passion for literature began in high school, inspired by writers such as James Baldwin and Nikki Giovanni. Kemmah believes in building and maintaining spaces for Black art and Black youth to thrive.

EVENTS LEAD

Jamond is a St. Paul native and the Events Lead for ZOMA House. His main creative focus is photography and videography. He has his own photography and videography business called JJVisionary. Aside from the media realm, Jamond loves to stay active, indulge in different art mediums, and make those around him laugh. A quote Jamond likes to reference is “The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” Jamond is always looking to meet new people and build connections.

MEDIA LEAD

Brandyn Lee Tulloch is a multidisciplinary artist who dives deeply into his creativity. He is a writer, poet, self-published author, musician, photographer, videographer, and filmmaker. Through the process of trial and error, he attempts any artistic venture that peaks his interest. Additionally, he is an activist and community organizer who believes that artists play a vital role in the collective liberation of all oppressed people.

Charmaine (Solorah The Essence) is a Minneapolis-born jazz, soul, and R&B singer whose voice carries the weight of lived experience and the light of healing. Her artistry has graced iconic stages like First Avenue, The Dakota Jazz Club, The Green Room, and The Turf Club. Today, she fronts the group BAKKWOODDRIFT, known for their genre-blending sound, electric performances, and packed-out shows. Beyond the stage, Charmaine is also a dedicated teacher and crafter. A former early childhood music educator at School of Rock and now a full-time instructor and administrator at MacPhail Center for Music, she combines her passions for music and creativity in the classroom. Her crafting journey began as a tool for self-expression and mental health, evolving into The Heartcraft Collective and its flagship community event, The Crafter Party, where others are invited to find healing and connection through art.