Who We Are
Welcome to The Ahsid Hemingway Powell Foundation, a grassroots organization with a mission to provide local resources and small grants from $50 to $200 to support students and transgender individuals.
Our foundation was established in June 2022 as a tribute to the vibrant and inspiring 30-year-old woman, Ahsid Hemingway Powell, affectionately known as Chum Chum, whose life was tragically cut short.
Ahsid's mother and aunt founded this organization to honor her memory and empower others to pursue their aspirations.
Chum Chum was an educated, artistic, and vocal transgender woman who used her voice to uplift and assist those around her. The Ashid Hemmingway Powell Foundation will continue this mission.
Hey, Y’all, the book was lit with Chum Chum. I did my life my way and had a ball. I was a star in my hometown, Albany, NY. I attended Albany High School, Hudson Valley Community College, and SUNY Albany, where I received a bachelor's degree in science. I liked to work hard and live my best life.
My world was a balance of beauty, talent, and brains!
I liked to sing and dance and was even an aspiring rap star. My favorite artist was Nicki Minaj.
I enjoyed binge-watching forensic science shows, and because of my science background, I understood everything they were explaining. My favorite book was Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria.
Amplify
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Humanize
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Strenthen
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Integrate
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Determination
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Amplify • Humanize • Strenthen • Integrate • Determination •
Jackie Powell (Ahsid’s Mother)
“Ahsid was genuinely remarkable, yet she possessed a profound humility. She aimed to create an environment where people felt at ease around her, and she never boasted about her achievements or educational background. She refrained from belittling anyone and had a gift for making people believe in themselves and their potential. She thought one shouldn't judge a book by its cover. She would do so willingly if she had the ability, or should I say, the capability to assist you in any way”.
Loved By All ~
Loved By All ~
My sister Ahsid was a unique, caring, intelligent, and fun individual. We have so many unforgettable memories. Her passion for life and drive for success was infectious and inspiring. She is missed every second by family, friends, and every person to whom she showed her generous heart and beautiful smile.
— Amir Powell (Ahsid’s Brother)
Words can not express how precious she was to so many. Her giant smile and hugs were always in abundance. Her conversations were always positive. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t picture her dancing in heaven.
— Sonya Stratton
Ahsid was one-of-a-kind! She was that light that would shine any and everywhere. We could look at each other and just laugh. She loved everyone, and never judged! She will be missed in the community. It’s never goodbye but, see you later my beautiful Chum Chum
— Onidashia King (The Wife)
Make a contribution to our foundation
Currently, we provide small grants to individuals in need as our resources allow. Our support extends to various areas, including school supplies, educational costs, and other critical necessities. We invite individuals to apply directly to us for access to our available resources. We kindly request you to consider contributing to our foundation.
