C.O.L.I.A. '2025'

Hello, my name is Mike. 

I’m a licensed esthetician focused on holistic acne and anti-aging treatments that highlight the role of a healthy diet. 

C.O.L.I.A. ASKS: 

Why is giving back important to you?

Giving back builds community, fosters empathy, and deepens our connection to each other.

What connection do you see between people and food?

I see food as more than nourishment—it’s tied to wellness, culture, and family history. That drives my passion for educating others about healthier choices.

Why is a health & wellness program around sustainable agriculture important now?

Health and wellness programs rooted in sustainable agriculture are key to stronger communities, better access to real food, and deeper connections to the environment.

How does UNITY inspire and resonate with you and your service to others?

UNITY reminds me of the love and support I grew up with. It inspires me to serve with compassion and help build a better future for the next generation.

Howdy from Prairie View!

My name is Debra.  As a passionate advocate for wellness and community, I believe giving back is an honor that goes beyond charity—it’s about planting seeds of knowledge, fostering unity, and creating lasting impact. Through lived experiences as a college student and community member, I’ve seen firsthand how access, education, and support can shape healthier futures for all. 

C.O.L.I.A. ASKS: 

Why is giving back important to you?

It’s an honor and privilege to give back to the community. Planting seeds of wisdom, sowing

monetarily, and sharing impactful testimonies are imperative to understanding the importance of

unity and inclusion.

What connection do you see between people and food? 

The love of food is universal. We need food to survive. As an undergraduate student at a

minority serving institution, there are many students who struggle financially and are unable to

afford “clean” foods that are intended to nourish the body. The majority of students subscribe to

a lifestyle of eating fast food, on a daily basis, because it’s the most affordable option. Food

accessibility is limited considering the location and demographic of the adopted rural population-

where we are not offered a wide variety of healthier food options in comparison to urban areas.

This has negatively impacted the overall health of students, leading them to long term health

issues that could and CAN be prevented through community outreach and giving back through

educating students via health nutritional classes and providing nutritional supplemental support

programs.

Why is a health & wellness program around sustainable agriculture important now?

“Health is Wealth," a motto that I’ve adopted at the ripe age of 24, and have used it for motivation to make healthier choices in eating habits. Educating people early about nutrition and sustainable choices empowers them to make better decisions that support lifelong wellness. 

How does UNITY inspire and resonate with you and your service to others?

Unity is selfless. We need community. We need each other to help us grow in areas where we

lack knowledge. Unity motivates me to serve others. Having a heart of servitude is rewarding

and satisfies my desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

 XM Fitness has a mission that goes beyond helping people get stronger—We're here to transform lives. With years of experience in fitness, coaching, and wellness education, We've seen how movement, mindset, and discipline can reshape not only the body but the entire outlook on life. At XM Fitness, we focus on building lasting strength—physically, mentally, for each individual client and ultimately within our community. Whether you're just starting your fitness journey or pushing toward new goals, we're here to challenge, support, and grow with you—one rep at a time.  

C.O.L.I.A. ASKS:

Why is giving back important to you?
As the owner of XM Fitness, I believe giving back is essential because real strength comes from community. Fitness isn't just physical—it's mental, emotional, and collective. Supporting others, especially those who don’t have access to wellness resources, is how we build stronger, healthier communities from the inside out. 

 What connection do you see between people and food? (The foods they eat vs. the foods we need?)
Food is fuel, and it directly affects how we perform, feel, and live. Too often, people settle for convenience over quality, not realizing how deeply nutrition impacts energy, focus, and recovery. At XM Fitness, we emphasize that optimal results don’t just come from workouts—they come from nourishing your body with what it truly needs. 

Why is a health & wellness program around sustainable agriculture important today?
Sustainable agriculture means better food, cleaner living, and a healthier future. It’s not just about what we eat—it's about where it comes from and how it impacts our bodies and the planet. Promoting sustainability helps us make smarter choices that benefit our clients, their families, and generations to come.

How does UNITY inspire and resonate with you and your service to others?
Unity is at the core of XM Fitness. 

No one achieves greatness alone. Whether it's pushing through a workout or overcoming life’s challenges, we grow stronger together. UNITY reminds me that we’re not just training bodies—we’re building a community that supports, uplifts, and inspires one another every step of the way.

Hola, I’m Angelica!  

I'm the founder of Untainted Energy—a clean, lemonade-based electrolyte drink made with real ingredients, the way it should be. 

My passion for health and wellness began with my naturalist mother and deepened when I became a mom myself. Guided by God’s wisdom, I’ve discovered powerful truths about how deeply health impacts our lives.

Motherhood is the most important role I’ve stepped into. We’re entrusted with shaping future generations, and that starts with health—even before birth. It’s a responsibility I take to heart.

I’ve learned a lot about health & wellness over the years and it dictates a lot of how one’s life may be so heavily impacted. Health starts before birth, you are laying down the foundation for your future generations and that’s an important duty!

C.O.L.I.A. ASKS: 

Why is giving back important to you?
As a first-generation Hispanic in the U.S., I witnessed how my family supported each other out of love and necessity. That experience taught me the importance of being there for others—especially those who don’t have support. Giving back is a way to extend that same love and help to others in need.

What connection do you see between people and food?
Today’s fast-paced lifestyle has pushed convenience over nutrition. Many rely on fast food or quick meals, sacrificing health for time. But when we don’t fuel our bodies with the nutrients they need, our energy and wellbeing suffer. Health is true wealth—and it starts with what we eat.

Why is a health & wellness program around sustainable agriculture important now?
Health, wellness, and sustainable agriculture are deeply connected. Choosing nutritious, low-impact foods supports both personal health and the environment. Sustainable farming preserves soil, reduces harmful chemicals, and ensures healthier options for future generations. It’s about creating long-term balance—for our bodies and the planet.

How does UNITY inspire and resonate with you and your service to others?
Unity is power and love. Standing together allows the space for change we want to see. Without like-minded individuals, with the same objectives, it would be a complex process to achieve alone. We were never intended to navigate life alone, we need help, we need community. Inclining individuals by sharing information and educating them allows them to understand and move accordingly for change. People need to be united to be able to fight back against wickedness. We are strong when we stand together, powerless when we’re segregated. 

Hi, I'm Gayla, Founder of Westry Mouton Project and partner & supporter of "Communities of Love In Action, C.O.L.I.A."

C.O.L.I.A. ASKS:

Why is giving back important to you?
Giving back helps uplift communities, especially the most vulnerable. It’s essential for individual and collective growth.

What connection do you see between people and food?
Our food choices often reflect our overall wellness. Poor diets can mirror unhealthy lifestyles and deeper value system challenges.

Why is a health & wellness program around sustainable agriculture important today?
These programs are vital—they impact our health, our economy, and ultimately, the survival of our communities and nation.

How does UNITY inspire your service to others?
Unity drives progress. Each generation has a duty to build a foundation for the next, and that requires shared commitment and care for humanity.

Hello everyone!       

I'm Dr. Sheri Smith and I serve as Interim Chair of the Department of Urban Planning and Environmental Policy, Associate Professor at Texas Southern University and as Texas A&M Master Gardener.  

C.O.L.I.A. ASKS: 

Why is giving back important to you?
I don’t necessarily see it as “giving back”—it’s about sharing what I’ve been given. In the world of urban agriculture, the knowledge and benefits only grow when shared. That’s how true impact happens—through exchange and community learning. 

What connection do you see between people and food?
We eat for many reasons—hunger, emotion, or social habit—but often overlook food’s role as fuel. People are aware of sugar, fat, and cholesterol, but many still don’t fully consider how food choices affect long-term wellness. Nutrition isn’t just about the moment—it shapes how our bodies function over time. 

Why is a health & wellness program around sustainable agriculture important now?
Urban agriculture gives individuals and families a sense of control over their health. Growing even a small amount of your own food reduces reliance on processed systems and increases access to fresh, clean produce. For those who can’t grow food, simply learning about sustainable practices helps them become more informed, conscious consumers. 

How does UNITY inspire and resonate with you and your service to others? 

We’re not meant to do life alone. Each person brings unique strengths to the table. True community wellness happens when we work together—when our collective efforts form a mosaic that supports a single vision: healthier individuals and stronger communities.