where storytelling is a bridge across cultures.

the story behind the name.

"Ever heard the saying, 'You can tell a tree by the fruit it bears?'" 

Ali Rowe

embodied this wisdom. 

A legend in storytelling, 

he understood the power of stories to transform lives. 


Imagine not knowing the stories... 

of your great-grandparents, 

their struggles, and triumphs. 

Ali, like many in the diaspora, 

grappled with this absence.


His only connection to the past? The captivating stories from his grandmother's indigenous heritage.

These stories, passed down through generations, became the seed of Fruits of Ali. 


Ali, a teacher and storyteller himself, ignited a passion for cultural preservation in his students, those he coached and mentored.

our founder.

Founder & CEO: Ebony Aliyah Rowe

Ebony Aliyah Rowe's passion for youth empowerment was ignited during her career as a social worker. Witnessing the struggles of marginalized groups, particularly the impact on mental health, she envisioned using storytelling as a tool for healing and self-expression. Her experiences working abroad, including a year teaching in South Korea and at an all women's university in Somaliland, further solidified her mission.

Inspired by her experience leading a storytelling project with women in war-torn Somaliland, East Africa, she witnessed the transformative power of narrative. Women who had endured unspeakable horrors found healing and empowerment by sharing their stories. Under her mentorship and leadership, these women produced poetry in their third language and collaborated on a film project that instilled them with pride.

Can this same transformative power be harnessed for Black youth aged 15-18 in New Jersey? We believe it can.


we believe in...