Meet Jazzi Bee | Founder Of The Story Community Garden
We had the good fortune of connecting with Jazzi Bee and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jazzi, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind the success of Story Community Garden is community empowerment and sustainability. This garden isn’t just about growing food—it’s about growing opportunities, education, and self-sufficiency. Our success comes from the deep roots we’ve planted in serving the people of District 5, ensuring they have access to fresh, chemical-free produce while learning how to cultivate their own food systems.
Another key factor is collaboration—Story Community Garden thrives because we work alongside like-minded organizations, volunteers, and changemakers who believe in food sovereignty, environmental healing, and holistic wellness. By integrating hydroponics, education, and a hands-on approach, we’re redefining what urban agriculture can do for Detroit.
At the end of the day, success comes from staying true to our mission: honoring the legacy of Charlene Story, transforming vacant land into abundance, and giving our community the tools to sustain themselves for generations to come.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Story Community Garden is more than a garden—it’s a movement, a revolution in self-sufficiency, and a blueprint for urban healing. Our “art” is in how we cultivate not just food, but a deep connection between people, land, and legacy. What sets us apart is our approach: we blend hydroponics, traditional gardening, and community-driven education to create a self-sustaining ecosystem in Detroit’s District 5.
What I’m most proud of is how this project honors the legacy of Charlene Story, transforming vacant land into a thriving, women-led initiative that empowers people with the knowledge and tools to take control of their food sources. Seeing families, children, and elders come together to grow, learn, and heal is what excites me most.
The journey hasn’t been easy. Building something from the ground up—literally—means facing challenges like funding, resources, and shifting mindsets around urban agriculture. But I’ve learned that resilience and community support are everything. I’ve had to get creative with fundraising, advocacy, and partnerships to keep pushing forward. The biggest lesson? You don’t wait for change—you plant it, nurture it, and watch it grow.
What I want the world to know is that Story Community Garden is not just about food—it’s about power, independence, and reclaiming what’s ours. This is a social enterprise led by women, built for the people, and committed to making fresh, chemical-free food a right, not a privilege. We’re just getting started, and this story is still being written.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Welcome to the D – Food & Vibes
Brunch at Dime Store – A must for gourmet breakfast and mimosas.
Belle Isle Park – We’d hit up the conservatory, aquarium, and just soak in the Detroit River views.
Dinner at SavannahBlue – Elevated soul food with a modern twist.
Drinks at The Sugar House – A dope craft cocktail bar in Corktown.
Day 2: Art & Culture Tour
Motown Museum – You can’t come to Detroit and not pay homage to the legends.
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) – The Diego Rivera murals alone are worth it.
Lunch at The Block – Laid-back but delicious comfort food.
Evening at Spot Lite Detroit – A mix of art, music, and chill vibes.
Day 3: Black-Owned Business Crawl & Shopping
Detroit Vs. Everybody, Good Neighbor, and 313 Brand – Gotta grab some Detroit merch!
The Lip Bar – Vegan, cruelty-free cosmetics, founded in Detroit.
Lunch at Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles – Because we need that soul food fix!
Shopping at Eastern Market – From fresh produce to Detroit art, it’s a whole experience.
Dinner at Grey Ghost – One of the best steakhouses in the city.
Day 4: Detroit’s Hidden Gems & Wellness Day
Morning Yoga at Detroit Yoga Lab – A little movement before the day starts.
Detroit Riverwalk & Dequindre Cut – Perfect for biking or a scenic walk.
Lunch at Detroit Vegan Soul – Plant-based goodness!
The N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art – Showcasing Black artists and deep culture.
Evening at The Schvitz – A historic bathhouse for a relaxing, old-school Detroit wellness experience.
Day 5: Story Community Garden & Community Love
Morning visit to Story Community Garden – Show them the work we’re doing and let them get their hands in the soil.
Lunch at Baobab Fare – East African flavors that are chef’s kiss.
Afternoon at the African Bead Museum – A Detroit gem with incredible history.
Dinner at Flowers of Vietnam – Vietnamese fusion in a super cool setting.
Drinks at Bumbo’s – A classic Detroit dive bar with good energy.
Day 6: Music, History & Late-Night Vibes
Breakfast at Brooklyn Street Local – A neighborhood favorite.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History – One of the most important museums in the country.
Lunch at Yum Village – Afro-Caribbean flavors with a whole vibe.
A Detroit Tigers or Pistons Game – Depending on the season, we’re hitting up a game!
Dinner at Mabel Gray – A chef’s choice, ever-changing menu that never disappoints.
Late-Night at TV Lounge – The best underground house music and DJ scene.
Day 7: Last Day & Unforgettable Send-Off
Brunch at The Hudson Café – Pancakes for the win.
Detroit Historical Museum – A quick but impactful visit.
Last-minute shopping at Detroit City Distillery & Eastern Market – Grab some Detroit-made whiskey or souvenirs.
Farewell dinner at Selden Standard – One of Detroit’s top restaurants.
Image Credits
@glamphotobooth
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