For our first week of commemorating Black Changemakers of the Bronx River, we honor the work of Justin Mashia!
Justin is a prolific community organizer and Bronx resident who has worked as a volunteer for local community organizations but has also cofounded his own organization, @bronxsole. He worked for the establishment of the Bronx River Alliance’s Foodway, as a part of the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Collation, and also as a part-time educator for the Bronx County Historical Society. He also runs an urban farming program whose goal is to provide accessible healthy food for the Bronx and to close the food desert gaps that exist.
His passion for reconnecting Bronx residents to their neighborhood and to health is further exemplified in the establishment of @bronxsole, a community running club that connects residents to the history of the Bronx through guided tours and social gatherings. His mission to meaningfully connect Bronx residents to their history, their health, and their community continues to inspire the Bronx River Alliance and many of our fellow community organizations who have been impacted by his altruism.
