Jah's Equipment Recovery Fund!!!

Peace Beautiful People!


My name is Jah and I am a photographer, aspiring filmmaker, and all-around entrepreneur from Chicago, IL. I am 21 years young and the eldest of four. I am a teacher, a thinker,  a healer, a lover, and a yogi. I am a seeker of justice and strive to be an embodiment of truth and elevation. It is with a heavy heart but high hopes that I create this campaign. 

Recently, due to financial stressors and the displacement of my immediate family by an extremely abusive Patriarch, I made the decision to take on 2 subletters into my home.  Individuals who I continuously uplifted and thought I could trust, unfortunately, presented themselves as one way and ultimately revealed that perception to be untrue. What started as a petty dispute over "money" (and more likely personal animosities and lifestyle differences) quickly snowballed into a hostile situation, where both me and my family were threatended.  This has added additional stress, drama, and trauma to my family, in what is already a very trying time for us physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. While the resolution is still ongoing, ultimately, the agressors were removed from the space. But not before vandalizing my home and stealing over $7000 worth of my (sparse) personal possesions.

(Door Broken off the Hinges 1)

(Door Broken off the Hinges 2)

Included in my stolen property is all of my photo/video equiptment - 4 cameras (dslr, vintage Minolta film, 2 polaroids), 5 lenses, a photo printer, and an external hd containing my whole body of work! I am essentialy starting over.

Visual art is something I feel extremely passionate about. As a creative and educator, I am always envisioning ways in which my art can better the world around me. I believe that art is one of the biggest catalysts for change. It allows us a platform to convey serious messages and compelling alternatives to the status quo through a creative lens - literally! Ultimately, I want my work to change the world. I want to spark critical discussion, engage communities, foster growth, and spread love - which, I feel DOES change the world in a very practical way. Additionally, having creative outlet has served as invaluble therapy for me as someone who lives with anxiety and depression. Since the theft of my equiptment, I have noted a stark drop in my personal confidence and my abiility to engage with others.

I take solice in the words of a close friend that, "the great thing about being an artist is that you can also make more," and that's where YOU come in!

I am creating this campaign out of 1-part desperation and 2-parts optimism. I am hoping that some compassionate soul will see my story, and, overburdened by their surplus of mula, will just HAVE to give me a million dollars :D

(Photo by Jah of StarZombie Films™)

Seriously though, It's fun to fantasize that some high-brow philanthropist with a last name like "Moneybags" will come and save the day, but in reality, it's donations from family and friends that will help me to reach my goal. One dollar here or 5 dollars there ADDS UP, and while $2,500 might seem like a daunting number, I have faith that we can succeed.

"What EXACTLY is my money going towards?"

Glad you asked! While the money raised from this campaign wont cover all that was stolen, it will allow me to purchase a new DSLR camera, lenses, and a new external hard drive - which is a huge step towards getting back on my feet. Also qualifying donations come with a reward, based on the amount! 

To get an idea of my skills and style, please feel free to check out the music videos below (directed, shot, edited, and produced by me) and my working photo portfolio here: http://imgur.com/a/u2Qwi 



Thank You!!
Sat Nam,
Jah <3 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/starzombiefilms/