Evolving Man Project

Welcome to the Evolving Man Project’s ‘Evolved Man of the Week’ profiles. Each week we will highlight an individual that embodies what it means to be an evolved man, famous and non-famous men alike. The world needs to know their stories and deeds. This week’s honor goes to Atlanta native, filmmaker, photographer, musician, and current student at the University of Colorado (Boulder), Ani Yahzid.

Born and raised in the city of Atlanta, the vast pine forest of North Georgia seemed to be world’s away for children like Ani growing up. As a young boy, Ani was exposed to nature and the outdoors thanks to both the Boys and Girls Club and the Sierra Club’s Inspiring Connections Outdoors program. As a teenager, Ani relocated westward to attend boarding school in Colorado Springs. His love of nature and the outdoors further grew in the mountains and foothills of Colorado. Now as an adult, Mr. Yahzid wants to share his experiences and hopefully influence more youth of color to embrace the great outdoors and discover the healing power of nature. Ani came up with a creative idea: “The Exposure Film Project: when hip-hop meets the outdoors.” This summer, he plans to travel to Olympic National Park with Atlanta-based hip-hop artist Namaste, and his producer, Keelan. Ani plans to document and film their entire outdoor adventure. Here is Ani Yahzid in his own words about making sure that youth and people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds gain access the outdoors:

“Getting to spend time outdoors is important for anyone. For historically marginalized groups, getting outdoors can help you to break out of your Socio-economic bubble and realize there’s more to the world than what you know. Spark creativity and a passion for something that they would have never experienced in the city.”

Today we honor Ani Yahzid as our Evolved Man of the Week.