Lorena James
Lorena James is an ecopreneur and environmental justice advocate working at the intersection of restoration ecology, climate resilience, and cultural expression. She leads Invasive Impact Initiatives, a youth-led project that transforms invasive species into art, seed bombs, and educational tools. Rooted in Buffalo, NY and Charlotte, NC, Lorena supports young environmental leaders in place-based, creative action. Centering ancestral knowledge and civic engagement, she is committed to building cities where communities feel empowered to heal the land—and themselves—through joyful, collaborative work.
About the Project
Eco-Underdogs: Upcycling for Justice uses invasive species removal and creative reuse as tools for education, expression, and environmental healing. Through hands-on workshops, participants will turn invasive plants into handmade paper, seed bombs, and natural fiber art while learning about ecology and environmental justice. Activities will take place at public venues like the Innovation Barn and Charlotte Museum of History. GIS mapping will track removal sites and material reuse. This grant will help expand Invasive Impact Initiatives’ presence in Charlotte, led by youth from Charlotte Wildlife Stewards and Black Girl Environmentalist, with my continued mentorship and community partnerships.