Raashan Ahmad is a passionate advocate for equity and community empowerment. Through initiatives like the Empower! Black Futures Community Fund, his role on the Santa Fe Arts Commission, and his work with the National Parks Arts Foundation, he uses his voice and vision to uplift underrepresented communities and champion the transformative power of art and culture.
Launched in 2023 Empower! Black Futures Community Fund is an identity-based giving circle held at the Santa Fe Community Foundation. Dedicated to supporting Black life, arts, and culture in New Mexico this fund is founded and chaired by Raashan Ahmad and the founding committee members which include Hakim Bellamy, Rich Brown, Michael Davis, Shani Harvie, Bettye Kearse, Simesha McEachern, Neema Pickett, and SPAC3.
Through targeted grants, strategic partnerships, and an equitable approach to community philanthropy, the Empower! Black Futures Community Fund will foster Black artistic expression, promote community development, and build up financial literacy for generations to come.
Contributions to Empower! Black Futures Community Fund will help seed its permanent endowment, which will grow over time to ensure sustained support of Black causes in New Mexico in perpetuity. The advisory committee will make an inaugural grant from the fund as part of its Juneteenth 2025 celebrations.
EMPOWER! Black Futures
Community Fund
Santa Fe Arts Commissioner
The Arts Commission, an advisory committee to the Governing Body, is made up of nine volunteer Commissioners appointed by the Mayor and the City Council. Commissioners represent a broad range of talents, skills, and experience.
National Parks Art Foundation - Board Member
The National Parks Art Foundation (NPAF) is a non-profit offering Artist-in-Residence Programs, Museum In-Loan Programs, and Workshops inspired by our National Parks, National Monuments, and World Heritage Sites.