In this episode of Rooted Women: Earth and Eco-Justice, we sit down with Malayna Nesbitt, public health researcher, citizen science expert, and environmental justice advocate, for a dynamic conversation about what it means to lead with empathy, creativity, and purpose.

Malayna shares her journey from studying public health and African American Studies to building air quality monitoring programs with communities, advancing inclusive science at NASA, and using art as a tool for activism. We explore the intersections of public health and environmental justice, the power of community-driven research, and how her business Makeba’s Muse transforms discarded materials into bold, sustainability-focused art.

We also dive into the importance of showing up fully—bringing both your head and your heart into the work—and not shying away from the things you're passionate about. Whether she’s curating a sustainable fashion show or designing climate career pathways for Black professionals, Malayna reminds us that advocacy is most powerful when it's grounded in care and culture.

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📺 Watch the full interview at www.brownmoonproject.org/rootedpodcast

🔗 Check out Malayna’s full bio at www.brownmoonproject.org/expertcontributor