MAKE Fall Cohort 2025

Author: Giselle Ortega

Every season at MAKE brings new growth — not just in the garden, but in the people who help it flourish. Among them are Zahida and Esterlanda, two remarkable trainees whose stories remind us what courage, kindness, and new beginnings truly look like. Zahida, 20, journeyed from Afghanistan chasing her dream of becoming a doctor. Her advice to others stepping into something new: “Be confident, be open to new experiences, and speak to people.”

Then there’s 23-year-old Esterlanda from Haiti, who radiates kindness and curiosity as she pursues nursing. Her words? “Be kind, expect new opportunities, and be open to meet new people.” These two remind us that growth takes courage. It’s about showing up, planting seeds of hope, and trusting they’ll bloom in time — just like they’re doing here at MAKE.

Zahida (left) helping a volunteer process arugula in our giant salad spinner!

Esterlanda (right) and Chisa (left) welcoming CSA members to pick up their weekly farm boxes.