Join The Story Collider and Trees Atlanta for an evening of true, personal stories about trees at the Atlanta Science Festival! Doors at 7 pm. Show starts at 7:30.
Hosted by Kellie Vinal and Meisa Salaita
Stories by:
Originally from Tifton, Georgia, Michael Hudgins has called Atlanta home for the last 15 years. Michael loves to write songs, watch documentaries and spend time with his wife and son. Professionally, Michael has recently found a calling working to protect and preserve local forests through invasive plant management.
Lelo Jones, a proud Atlanta native, is a passionate farmer, educator, and environmental advocate dedicated to reconnecting people with nature. Growing up in the city, he developed a deep appreciation for the land and the importance of sustainability. As the owner of Outdoor Fresh Farm, an urban farm in Atlanta’s westside, Lelo works to combat food insecurity while promoting eco-friendly living and regenerative agriculture.
Gwendolyn J. Napier, aka “Miss LuvDrop,” is a native of Atlanta, GA and retired educator from Fulton County Schools. She’s the Founder of LuvDrop Productions (the “Heart of Storytelling”), and an educational entertainer, storyteller, singer, poet, drummer, workshop facilitator, and more. She has been performing as a storytelling artist for over 16 years, and is a teaching and performing artist at both the Wren’s Nest in Atlanta and the Georgia Council of the Arts. She’s a member of the National Storytelling Network, Georgia Storytelling Network, Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia, and the National Association of Black Storytellers. You can learn more about her at luvdropproductions.com.
Southern nomad, photographer, and nature lover; Sabrina Samuel is originally from Atlanta, Georgia. She enjoyed a childhood full of outdoor adventures with her little sister and their many beloved ponies, ducks, goats, cats, dogs, and rabbits. After studying art at the University of Georgia, she traveled to India and lived there for many years. In 2002, she returned to Atlanta with her husband and two kids. Currently, she owns and operates a small real estate photography business, Sabrina Samuel Photography. When she’s not working, she enjoys long walks visiting her tall forest friends - trees.
Priya Sarathy has lived in Atlanta for 25 years and has explored the city extensively while raising two active boys. After 30 years in the corporate world as an Analytics and Data Strategy leader, she is now focused on building her own company while dedicating time to her passions—mentoring students, engaging in arts and crafts, and supporting non-profits. As a docent for Trees Atlanta, she combines her love for nature with educating the community, fostering a deeper appreciation for urban green spaces.