TOBIAS FOX Newark Science and Sustainability

The work you spend the most of your time on shouldn’t be some mindless job or task that seems more like a burden than anything. It should be something that you consider part of your lifestyle, a meaningful reflection of your work ethic and motivations. That’s why, with the help of Rising Tide, I’ve been able to fully embed Newark Science and Sustainability Inc. into our community’s development.

Since 2011, I’ve conducted various community events, presentations and workshops on sustainable living practices and has assisted numerous urban farmers and gardeners with the cultivation of their agricultural space. I’ve always felt that the localization of food and energy production becoming standard practice in our municipalities as well as the cultivation of urban farms and energy parks is vital to our growth as a whole, so that’s what I’ve been working towards with my efforts as an entrepreneur.

In my efforts, RTC helped me better understand that combining the social logic of a nonprofit with the commercial logic of a for-profit businesses could be a creative approach to creating tangible solutions for real-world problems. Using a social entrepreneurial approach allows the building of social movements and assist with the creation of self-sustaining communities by developing pathways for green jobs that contribute to self-sufficiency and community empowerment.

Stemming from the beginning of my career, I’ve received multiple commendations and service recognition awards for my work. With the reputation I’ve built up, along with the business guidance of RTC, I’ve been able to gather contacts and supporters to expand our capabilities. I’ve been collaborating with Rutgers Newark faculty member Rachel Emas, Ph.D. and we have mapped out a 12-year plan that transforms Newark Science and Sustainability, Inc. into a national organization. In the next 3 years, we plan to be a statewide organization with at least two chapters established in New Jersey. RTC can definitely help by providing the resources needed to ensure a successful journey.

I’m steadily moving onward and upward in my field, and I feel this work will have a huge impact, both within the Newark community it’s based in and those looking in from others.