GREENING OUT
Fort Collins, Colorado | Film Short
Drama, Horror
Self-medicating with marijuana to survive an unanticipated house show, Amara, a neurodivergent 20 year old, greens out to monstrous proportions. GREENING OUT explores autism, ADHD, substance use, and the search for belonging in underrepresented demographics.
GREENING OUT
Fort Collins, Colorado | Film Short
Drama, Horror
1 Campaigns | Colorado, United States
19 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$850
Goal: $5,000 for production
Self-medicating with marijuana to survive an unanticipated house show, Amara, a neurodivergent 20 year old, greens out to monstrous proportions. GREENING OUT explores autism, ADHD, substance use, and the search for belonging in underrepresented demographics.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
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GREENING OUT by TUMEKA explores how common substance use appears in the lives of neurodiverse populations.
When Amara's roommates throw a house show without telling them, this neurodivergent 20-year-old must use every tool at their disposal to navigate their apartment turned social and sensory minefield. After failed attempts with marijuana, Amara retreats into their bathroom, where they do not leave the same as they entered.
Fusing together topics of neurodivergence, substance use, drama, coming-of-age, and horror, GREENING OUT is the story that expands the film industry's restricted lens around autistic experiences. And to go there, you’ll have to travel to a new planet.
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No moral lessons, just asking you to meet Amara on an eye-to-eye, human level.
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GREENING OUT explores how people like Amara use weed to manage their lives when they are often unaccommodated and even unaware of why the world always feels upside down, while others find them offbeat, strange, and a little odd.
TUMEKA asks you to rethink the dominant narratives on neurodivergence, the pressure to assimilate, and the need to be seen.
GREENING OUT is a story for the people and by the people who lived it!
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I’m creating this film because audiences deserve to see neurodivergent representation in their authentic intersectionalities.
After a lifetime of head-canons, fanfics, and daydreams about characters being ‘eccentric’ like me, GREENING OUT is the story I deserve to see too!
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When you’re someone like Amara–living with that deep awareness of difference but no name or further support–you learn to survive by performing the expectations and demands of those around you (even when it comes at a cost).
That pressure and lack of support has real, long-lasting effects on your body and how you see yourself. It’s a monstrous combination that can result in problematic substance use and dependency because drugs (like weed or alcohol) are things you can actually get!
But rarely do our cultural narratives allow room for both autism and substance use to be present. Those narratives are also too apathetic to the lives of Black and Brown people to even consider us worthy of being spoken about.
Being underrepresented, understudied, underaccommodated, and undercared for delegitimizes us silently. It causes a chaos in our bodies that is difficult to reckon with and an isolating pressure in our lives.
The world of GREENING OUT is built around that pressure Amara experiences to assimilate, the actions they take to meet or remedy the pressure, and both the horror and serendipity that result from their circumstances and decisions.
In an industry saturated by sameness, it’s time to breathe life into distinct characters.
It was time for TUMEKA to respond to that call. So I stepped into them.
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GREENING OUT is currently in its final stretch of Pre-Production with set Production days of July 25th, August 16th, August 22nd, August 23rd and potential reshoots occurring on August 29th, 30th, and 31st.
Our cast and crew have backgrounds in film, creative writing, videography, photography, theatre, drag, journalism, graphic design, marching band, business, electronic arts, fashion, student organizing, event management, and beyond.
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We are also collaborating with the rising emo band Weekend on a Wednesday for an original "Greening Out" song.
The funds collected from this campaign will support our diverse and passionate cast and crew in making this short film happen.
GREENING OUT is an investment in Colorado's creative community. Our team is composed primarily of BIPOC, neurodiverse, queer, women, and emerging filmmakers working to expand access and representation in an industry where opportunities remain uneven.
Pledging to GREENING OUT means directly investing in marginalized creatives as we develop professional experience and careers in film.
If we exceed our $5,000 goal, the additional funds will go towards compensating cast and crew, increasing our production quality, and increasing reach through film festival submissions.
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If we don't raise a minimum of 80% of our Seed&Spark funding goal, we won't receive any of our funding.
Our team is capable, highly skilled and motivated, but we don’t share the same access that well-established creatives and predominantly white film sets do.
Bringing the full vision of GREENING OUT to life requires your support!
PLEDGE to our campaign–every contribution, no matter the amount, brings the world closer to understanding lives like Amara’s!
SHARE & FOLLOW our Seed&Spark page. By pressing the heart button at the top right of the page, you show other pledgers that you’re counting on us to make this film happen. Show others that you’re just as excited as we are!
FOLLOW US on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest, and Tumblr @GreeningOutFilm2027 to join our growing fandom! We will have several community engagement events for you to participate in. We want to see you there!
LIKE, COMMENT, AND SHARE all our posts to help amplify Amara’s story and the work of our brilliant team.
TALK to a friend about neurodivergence, substance use, underrepresentation, and access. Every bit of awareness will make it easier for the next marginalized creative to tell their story!
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We know words can be tricky, even when we love what we’re talking about. Show your support with our pre-written messages:
- I’m so excited to support @GreeningOutFilm2027, a truly original story about autism, ADHD, substance use, transformation, and belonging. Support the film now on Seed&park: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- I just pledged to @GreeningOutFilm2027, a powerful and artistic exploration of neurodivergence, substance use, and identity spearheaded by marginalized and emerging creatives. Please support and share now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- Rising filmmaker TUMEKA is expanding and reshaping the bubble of filmmaking in Colorado with @GreeningOutFilm2027. Be apart of the change at: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- @GreeningOutFilm2027 is a distinct, original story about neurodivergence, substance use, and transformation written, directed, and produced by a 20-year-old Black Audhd filmmaker. Support it now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- A complex and artistically bold story about neurodivergence, substance use, and the pressure of assimilation, @GreeningOutFilm2027 is for those who have always known they were different, but hid their difference to survive. If this speaks to you, support it now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- I am honored to support this passionate and promising team of emerging creatives. Be a part of the dream at Seed&Spark today: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- TUMEKA is increasing film opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and Brown people in Colorado. Support @GreeningOutFilm2027 now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
Every interaction brings us closer to bringing this dream into reality—thank you for being part of our story. We'll be seeing you on the other side of the void. ⋆⭒˚.⋆
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Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Design & Costumes
Costs $850
To transport Amara into a world that is distinct, strange, and authentic to their experiences.
Cast & Crew Stipends
Costs $2,000
Our highly skilled cast and crew is volunteering their time from passion and drive to actualize TUMEKA's vision. We'd love to compensate!
Feeding Cast & Crew
Costs $1,000
We are shooting a minimum of four 8+ hour long days. We want to feed our crew volunteering their days to GREENING OUT.
Post-Production
Costs $900
Funds editing, sound, color grading, and physical incentive deliverables to bring you a polished, professional final film and incentives.
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About This Team
☆ Writer-Director-Producer ☆
TUMEKA, also known as Tristin Tumeka Astbury, is a Colorado-born Ghanaian-American filmmaker studying English (Creative Writing) at Colorado State University. The 20-year-old began as a photographer for the ACT Human Rights Film Festival and later became the Creative Director of the student-led video production company at Rocky Mountain Student Media. While studying at the University of Oxford, TUMEKA moved from videography into screenplay writing and found deep inspiration at Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein in Bath, England. They later studied abroad again in Ghana, where Afrocentric artwork inspired them in a way they had never experienced before.
Before screening their experimental short CALL US WHEN YOU LAND, STAR CHILD at Through the Student Lens Film Festival, TUMEKA developed a practice grounded in story, travel, and place. As a Black, (Gender)Queer, and neurodivergent artist, TUMEKA is fiercely passionate about uplifting, protecting, and championing marginalized voices in every room they walk into. Channeling the strength and importance of the West African Griot tradition, the multi-talented, trans-disciplinary storyteller is dedicated to alchemizing the harm they’ve experienced in predominantly white spaces into a world where artists can dream and heal in community. Through a collective, ancestral, and spiritual vision of the world, TUMEKA is honored to bring hidden gems to the surface.
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☆ Assistant Director ☆
Nya Goble is the Assistant Director of Greening Out and the founder of Black Musicians Collective at Colorado State University. Her work focuses on intersection of auditory art and the written word and the collection of POC singulars in white dominated communities. The latter drove her to this project as Greening Out is a film that will transform the Fort Collins film industry. TUMEKA is opening doors for POC creatives to not only exist but thrive in white-dominated spaces.
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☆ Director of Photography & Associate Producer ☆
Mossaab Mohamed is a Journalism and Media Communication student at Colorado State University with a minor in Business Administration, passionate about storytelling, brand strategy, and visual media. His work sits at the intersection of creativity and leadership.
As President of United Men of Color, he has lead initiatives that build community, celebrate legacy, and create meaningful spaces for connection across campus. He also serves in a brand management role with the Black African American Cultural Center, where he focuses on strategic communication and strengthening organizational identity.
Beyond campus leadership, he is a a creative entrepreneur and co founder of Luminoor Media, a visual and marketing brand dedicated to helping individuals and organizations tell compelling stories through photography and campaign driven content.
Mossaab is passionate about working with other POC creatives and creating space where marginalized voices aren’t always welcome. Greening Out presented an opportunity to combine his values with a larger vision.
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☆ Associate Producer ☆
Gasim Mohamed Osman is a 20-year-old Sudanese-American from Denver, Colorado. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at Colorado State University, while maintaining a role in Public Relations for the Black Student Alliance and serving as the Co-Chair of Marketing for United Men of Color. In addition to his extracurricular leadership positions, he plays bass, plays video games, and makes videos.
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☆ Art Director ☆
Elieana Garrick is a 21-year-old from Castle Rock, Colorado. Film is Elieana’s greatest passion in life. During her time in college, she wrote, directed, and filmed two short films. She has also worked in graphic design, creating graphics for social media and event promotion. She was initially drawn to this project as it was an opportunity to work with peers that she had been in college with on a deeper level. Working with creative, driven individuals on a passion project is an opportunity she is proud to be a part of. She feels that this is the most important project she has been part of, as it tells a story that people can connect with, relate to, and allows them to feel heard and seen.
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☆ Producer of Marketing & Distribution ☆
Kimberly Mayorga is a recent graduate of Colorado State University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Communication with Dance. Originally from Vail, Colorado, she is pursuing a career in documentary filmmaking, as well as dance photography and filmmaking.
As a first-generation Hispanic woman, Kimberly is dedicated to sharing narratives that challenge stereotypes and amplify marginalized voices, particularly within the Hispanic community. Her projects are grounded in compassion, diverse perspectives, and thoughtful storytelling. She worked for the ACT Human Rights Film Festival for three years as their Student Outreach and Impact Coordinator. Additionally, she has served as a Production Specialist for Colorado State University's RamVision and, through various internships and her own company, Kimberly Mayorga Media, has gained valuable experience in community outreach, media production, and communications.
Kimberly's most notable project includes her documentary Un Sueño Humilde, which she directed. The film tells the story of why her parents immigrated to the United States and premiered at the ACT Human Rights Film Festival 2026 as part of their student films. Another notable project of hers is her Senior Dance Capstone Performance, a multimedia presentation involving her own dance choreography, photography, and video. This performance continues the story explored in her film, adding her perspective on her parents and addressing themes such as the struggles of being first-generation and honoring one’s roots.
Currently, Kimberly works as a freelance photographer and video editor. She is passionate about creating opportunities for individuals who have often been overlooked and not given the chance to tell their stories. Kimberly aims to empower them to share their narratives through media in a way that is authentic and true to themselves.
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☆ Lead Actress ☆
Jahnasre Ram is a Malaysian-born, Arizona-raised actress represented by The Wayne Agency and Radical Artists Agency. She studied Psychology at Colorado State University, where she explored human behavior, motivation, and mental processes. Jahnasre has trained in a range of acting techniques, with an emphasis on the Meisner technique and screen acting. Drawing from her background in psychology, as well as boxing and dance, the actress approaches each performance with a dynamic integration of mind and body. Jahnasre was drawn to Greening Out's philosophy about exposure for POC creators, especially after having firsthand experience with declining opportunities for POC actors. Amara’s struggles also resonated with Jahnasre, as she navigates her own mental health struggles too. Overall, Ram was moved by the mission statement and touched by the realism of Amara's struggles.
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☆ Sound Designer ☆
Lucan Wrigley is an audio, music, and video producer based in Fort Collins, Colorado. His audio and video work have often been solo projects, with Greening Out being his first major collaborative production. In the past, he has submitted his films to Colorado State University’s Through The Student Lens Film Festival, winning the best film in the Earth and Sky category for his project, Bravo. Greening Out presented itself as a unique opportunity to be involved with Fort Collins’ film scene, and he found himself interested in getting to take the skills he learned through solo productions and bring them to an environment where he could be challenged.
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☆ Special FX Makeup Artist ☆
Jaime, also known as Formidable Jaime, is a 21-year-old Mexican-American (Chicano/Chicanx) artist and non-binary drag performer from El Paso, Texas. Drag empowers Jaime as they transmute their experience and skills into authentic expression while showing up to support other artists in the community. As a double major in Ethnic Studies and Horticultural Food Crops at Colorado State University and an officer for CSU MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences), they are dedicated to uplifting marginalized individuals across all spaces. Drawn in by Greening Out's mission statement, Jaime is ready to expand into film by supporting a crew increasing access and representation.
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☆ Special FX Makeup Artist ☆
Joseph Reyes, also known as Tooth Decay, is a drag performer and an undergraduate student studying Ethnic Studies, Political Science, and Art History at Colorado State University. Joseph has previously worked on personal short films, served as a designer for the Denver Paper Fashion Show, and performs as Tooth Decay in the local drag scene while designing and curating original looks. They are passionate about, and honored to be part of, Greening Out, which uplifts BIPOC artists, filmmakers, producers, and everyone in the field. Joseph loves bringing their drag community and the queer community to these spaces. With their innovative technique, creative freedom, and drag knowledge, Tooth Decay is excited to be working on Greening Out!
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☆ Special FX Makeup Artist ☆
Jaelynne Beaber, also known as Jar, is a member of Greening Out’s SFX makeup team and is thrilled to be part of the production!
Costume design and practical effects have been a passion of Jar’s for years. What began as experimenting with gore makeup in her bedroom with old makeup palettes and craft supplies grew into a love for special effects and costuming. She then went on to develop those skills through her local theater program before starting her education at Colorado State University, studying costume design with a focus on costume crafts and special effects makeup.
Today, Jar continues to expand her creative skill set both as a passionate hobbyist and as a freelance designer, always looking for new opportunities to challenge herself creatively, whether that’s through joining a new production or exploring personal creative projects!
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☆ Featured Musical Artist ☆
Farai Muchineripi is a Zimbabwean-American musician and creative whose work is driven by a passion for storytelling and self-expression. Through his music, he explores emotion, connection, and ways to inspire others, with the goal of leaving a lasting impression on everyone who experiences his art. Drawing inspiration from his abstract view of life and reality, Farai approaches his music as a canvas, where every thought becomes a brushstroke and every emotion introduces a new color, with each moment contributing to a greater masterpiece. To Farai, music is an experience built one sound at a time. Every note, texture, and silence carries its own purpose, resonating differently within the soul before coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
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☆ Pre-Production Photographer ☆
Denzel Hlazo was born and raised in Zimbabwe. He is a creative in many forms—an engineer, a writer, and a photographer. He creates images that not only tell a story but also resonate with viewers. For Denzel, the beauty of photography isn’t simply taking a photo; it’s capturing the soul of the subject.
Since Denzel began portrait photography, he has captured many images, each of which holds a special place in his heart. However, there was one shoot that truly defined the direction he wanted to pursue. It featured three men with distinct yet complementary styles and challenged him to think creatively in ways he never had before. That experience laid the foundation for his current creative work and ultimately led him toward fashion and brand photography.
Denzel’s photography is characterized by a unique editing style that makes each image more impactful and memorable. Post-processing is where he truly brings his vision to life, while the photoshoot itself is where that vision begins to take shape. He was drawn to the Greening Out film project because of its unique concept and the way it embodies creativity. Additionally, the project’s collaborative nature—bringing together people from diverse creative backgrounds—is what truly sets it apart.
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☆ Lead Singer of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Max Werth is a 20-year-old Korean boy who writes and sings with his heart. Growing up, Max used to make YouTube videos with his friends and draw. As a vocalist and songwriter for Weekend on a Wednesday, this is Max’s first time forming a band. But despite the newness, he’s been a writer for far longer and has spent the past year learning how to scream (scream style). “Tristin’s a pretty cool critter,” Max said when asked about why he got involved in the project. He also admires that so many people of color are involved, and he’d love the opportunity to show the world what Weekend on a Wednesday can do.
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☆ Lead Guitarist of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Alex Han is a Korean-American and the lead guitarist for Weekend on a Wednesday. His favorite food is daeji bulgogi, and his favorite manga is Chainsaw Man. As a multi-talented musician who plays drums and piano, he lets music drive his emotions. Music allows Alex to embrace and release emotions like sadness, anger, and melancholy instead of letting them build up. Whether it’s listening to songs or writing them, music plays a large role in his life, and he doesn’t know what he’d do without it. Through empathy, Alex felt drawn to Amara’s struggles, as weed used to drive his life and got him in trouble with loved ones. As the lead for WOAW, Alex is grateful that he no longer smokes and has prepared to step into his role.
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☆ Bassist/Vocalist of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Connor Hopkins is a 22-year-old artist from Windsor, Colorado, now living in Fort Collins. In September of 2025, he expanded his skill set by picking up the bass, formally becoming the bassist and backing vocalist for Weekend on a Wednesday. His most meaningful completed project to date is WOAW’s debut EP Eat Me Alive (available on all platforms July 13th), as collaborating with his best friends has been a blast and an incredible learning opportunity. Using three years of multilingual choral experience, Connor contributed vocals, songwriting, and bass to the EP. For Connor, it was the diversity of the cast and crew and the unique perspective not often seen in films that drew him to Greening Out. Feeling drawn in by the concept and welcoming environment of the team, he couldn’t turn down the opportunity to collaborate on an original song!
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☆ Drummer of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Gavin Leagjeld is the drummer for Weekend on a Wednesday. Before WOAW, Gavin played in Silicosis with his current bandmate, Kian McIntosh. He enjoys skateboarding and all things in life. Gavin’s ready to collaborate with Greening Out and apply his skills to a new creative context!
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☆ Rhythm Guitarist of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Kian McIntosh is a local artist from Loveland, Colorado, who enjoys playing guitar with like-minded people. He's been a guitarist for ≈3 years, and he was formerly part of a punk project with Weekend on a Wednesday’s drummer Gavin Leagjeld before the two joined WOAW. The community of Fort Collins drew Kian to Greening Out and the dedication of their lead singer Max Werth.
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☆ Featured Digital Artist ☆
Rianna Whitlock is a third-year student studying Electronic Arts at Colorado State University. This is the first full film production she has worked on, but she has her sights set on producing a Webtoon in the near future. Rianna was drawn to Greening Out because she’s always ready to expand her skills and resume by drawing in a style new to her.
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☆ Supporting Actor ☆
Aaydin Underwood is a 22-year-old African-American actor and musician from Denver, Colorado. Although he is currently a junior studying Performance Theatre at Colorado State University, he specializes in dramatic screen acting, and looks forward to doing more film projects in the future.
He’s taken beginner and advanced acting courses and starred in the following productions: Murder At Rundown Abbey (as Gus Gumbles), Footloose (as Ensemble), The Addams Family (as Lurch), The Pirates of Penzance (as Ensemble), A Midsummer Night's Dream (as Ensemble), Harvey (as Judge Omar Gaffney), Peter and the Starcatcher (as Betty Bumbrake/Teacher), and Rent (as Tom Collins). Guided by a passion for authentic storytelling, the actor values community, positivity, and meaningful artistic collaboration.
Aaydin is particularly passionate about working with fellow creatives from underrepresented backgrounds and strives to create work that resonates deeply with audiences through honest and emotionally grounded performances.
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☆ Production Assistant ☆
Taavi Machado (any/all pronouns) enjoys writing and sketching. Additionally, he has a growing collection of lenses he utilizes for photography. His past work consists mainly of poems, sketches, and photos. There is a vast amount of subjects covered within her work, ranging from the depiction of genderqueer experiences and bodies, Indigenous reclamation of Ancestral tattooing practices, colonial violence in the form of militarization and displacement, Indigenous language as resistance to borders, relational understandings of water in Arctic Indigenous communities, and various other topics. Taavi was most drawn to this project because of their relationship with the film's writer, director, and producer, Tristin/TUMEKA. They have a prominent respect for TUMEKA's creative process and feel honored to aid in the production of the film.
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☆ Prop Designer ☆
Lee Solis is an aspiring creative located in Colorado. She has been involved in numerous theatre productions in various roles, although she primarily works in Stage Management. What drew her to her current project, Greening Out, was the opportunity for creative experimentation in a highly collaborative environment with other emerging creatives. Having a passion for exploring marginalized identities in media and harboring spaces for representation, Greening Out is a project that fits with her creative goals.
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☆ Catering & Craft Services ☆
Tyler Orwa is a Kenyan-American that loves food, technology, music, his friends, family, and laughing. One of his most passionate projects is a mod for a game to add music he liked from various movies and shows. He was inspired by Oppenheimer because it is his favorite movie in soundtrack and vibe. He was able to establish himself in an unknown community and become the most established creator in that space. Whenever he works on projects, he’s usually motivated by personal interest or the desire to fulfill his life with things that make him happy. Greening Out drew him in because of his desire to help his friends, and also for feeding people good food, because he loves both being around his friends and helping them achieve their dreams.
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Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
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GREENING OUT by TUMEKA explores how common substance use appears in the lives of neurodiverse populations.
When Amara's roommates throw a house show without telling them, this neurodivergent 20-year-old must use every tool at their disposal to navigate their apartment turned social and sensory minefield. After failed attempts with marijuana, Amara retreats into their bathroom, where they do not leave the same as they entered.
Fusing together topics of neurodivergence, substance use, drama, coming-of-age, and horror, GREENING OUT is the story that expands the film industry's restricted lens around autistic experiences. And to go there, you’ll have to travel to a new planet.
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No moral lessons, just asking you to meet Amara on an eye-to-eye, human level.
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GREENING OUT explores how people like Amara use weed to manage their lives when they are often unaccommodated and even unaware of why the world always feels upside down, while others find them offbeat, strange, and a little odd.
TUMEKA asks you to rethink the dominant narratives on neurodivergence, the pressure to assimilate, and the need to be seen.
GREENING OUT is a story for the people and by the people who lived it!
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I’m creating this film because audiences deserve to see neurodivergent representation in their authentic intersectionalities.
After a lifetime of head-canons, fanfics, and daydreams about characters being ‘eccentric’ like me, GREENING OUT is the story I deserve to see too!
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When you’re someone like Amara–living with that deep awareness of difference but no name or further support–you learn to survive by performing the expectations and demands of those around you (even when it comes at a cost).
That pressure and lack of support has real, long-lasting effects on your body and how you see yourself. It’s a monstrous combination that can result in problematic substance use and dependency because drugs (like weed or alcohol) are things you can actually get!
But rarely do our cultural narratives allow room for both autism and substance use to be present. Those narratives are also too apathetic to the lives of Black and Brown people to even consider us worthy of being spoken about.
Being underrepresented, understudied, underaccommodated, and undercared for delegitimizes us silently. It causes a chaos in our bodies that is difficult to reckon with and an isolating pressure in our lives.
The world of GREENING OUT is built around that pressure Amara experiences to assimilate, the actions they take to meet or remedy the pressure, and both the horror and serendipity that result from their circumstances and decisions.
In an industry saturated by sameness, it’s time to breathe life into distinct characters.
It was time for TUMEKA to respond to that call. So I stepped into them.
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GREENING OUT is currently in its final stretch of Pre-Production with set Production days of July 25th, August 16th, August 22nd, August 23rd and potential reshoots occurring on August 29th, 30th, and 31st.
Our cast and crew have backgrounds in film, creative writing, videography, photography, theatre, drag, journalism, graphic design, marching band, business, electronic arts, fashion, student organizing, event management, and beyond.
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We are also collaborating with the rising emo band Weekend on a Wednesday for an original "Greening Out" song.
The funds collected from this campaign will support our diverse and passionate cast and crew in making this short film happen.
GREENING OUT is an investment in Colorado's creative community. Our team is composed primarily of BIPOC, neurodiverse, queer, women, and emerging filmmakers working to expand access and representation in an industry where opportunities remain uneven.
Pledging to GREENING OUT means directly investing in marginalized creatives as we develop professional experience and careers in film.
If we exceed our $5,000 goal, the additional funds will go towards compensating cast and crew, increasing our production quality, and increasing reach through film festival submissions.
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If we don't raise a minimum of 80% of our Seed&Spark funding goal, we won't receive any of our funding.
Our team is capable, highly skilled and motivated, but we don’t share the same access that well-established creatives and predominantly white film sets do.
Bringing the full vision of GREENING OUT to life requires your support!
PLEDGE to our campaign–every contribution, no matter the amount, brings the world closer to understanding lives like Amara’s!
SHARE & FOLLOW our Seed&Spark page. By pressing the heart button at the top right of the page, you show other pledgers that you’re counting on us to make this film happen. Show others that you’re just as excited as we are!
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- I’m so excited to support @GreeningOutFilm2027, a truly original story about autism, ADHD, substance use, transformation, and belonging. Support the film now on Seed&park: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- I just pledged to @GreeningOutFilm2027, a powerful and artistic exploration of neurodivergence, substance use, and identity spearheaded by marginalized and emerging creatives. Please support and share now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- Rising filmmaker TUMEKA is expanding and reshaping the bubble of filmmaking in Colorado with @GreeningOutFilm2027. Be apart of the change at: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- @GreeningOutFilm2027 is a distinct, original story about neurodivergence, substance use, and transformation written, directed, and produced by a 20-year-old Black Audhd filmmaker. Support it now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- A complex and artistically bold story about neurodivergence, substance use, and the pressure of assimilation, @GreeningOutFilm2027 is for those who have always known they were different, but hid their difference to survive. If this speaks to you, support it now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- I am honored to support this passionate and promising team of emerging creatives. Be a part of the dream at Seed&Spark today: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
- TUMEKA is increasing film opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and Brown people in Colorado. Support @GreeningOutFilm2027 now: seedandspark.com/fund/greeningoutfilm2027
Every interaction brings us closer to bringing this dream into reality—thank you for being part of our story. We'll be seeing you on the other side of the void. ⋆⭒˚.⋆
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Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Design & Costumes
Costs $850
To transport Amara into a world that is distinct, strange, and authentic to their experiences.
Cast & Crew Stipends
Costs $2,000
Our highly skilled cast and crew is volunteering their time from passion and drive to actualize TUMEKA's vision. We'd love to compensate!
Feeding Cast & Crew
Costs $1,000
We are shooting a minimum of four 8+ hour long days. We want to feed our crew volunteering their days to GREENING OUT.
Post-Production
Costs $900
Funds editing, sound, color grading, and physical incentive deliverables to bring you a polished, professional final film and incentives.
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About This Team
☆ Writer-Director-Producer ☆
TUMEKA, also known as Tristin Tumeka Astbury, is a Colorado-born Ghanaian-American filmmaker studying English (Creative Writing) at Colorado State University. The 20-year-old began as a photographer for the ACT Human Rights Film Festival and later became the Creative Director of the student-led video production company at Rocky Mountain Student Media. While studying at the University of Oxford, TUMEKA moved from videography into screenplay writing and found deep inspiration at Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein in Bath, England. They later studied abroad again in Ghana, where Afrocentric artwork inspired them in a way they had never experienced before.
Before screening their experimental short CALL US WHEN YOU LAND, STAR CHILD at Through the Student Lens Film Festival, TUMEKA developed a practice grounded in story, travel, and place. As a Black, (Gender)Queer, and neurodivergent artist, TUMEKA is fiercely passionate about uplifting, protecting, and championing marginalized voices in every room they walk into. Channeling the strength and importance of the West African Griot tradition, the multi-talented, trans-disciplinary storyteller is dedicated to alchemizing the harm they’ve experienced in predominantly white spaces into a world where artists can dream and heal in community. Through a collective, ancestral, and spiritual vision of the world, TUMEKA is honored to bring hidden gems to the surface.
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☆ Assistant Director ☆
Nya Goble is the Assistant Director of Greening Out and the founder of Black Musicians Collective at Colorado State University. Her work focuses on intersection of auditory art and the written word and the collection of POC singulars in white dominated communities. The latter drove her to this project as Greening Out is a film that will transform the Fort Collins film industry. TUMEKA is opening doors for POC creatives to not only exist but thrive in white-dominated spaces.
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☆ Director of Photography & Associate Producer ☆
Mossaab Mohamed is a Journalism and Media Communication student at Colorado State University with a minor in Business Administration, passionate about storytelling, brand strategy, and visual media. His work sits at the intersection of creativity and leadership.
As President of United Men of Color, he has lead initiatives that build community, celebrate legacy, and create meaningful spaces for connection across campus. He also serves in a brand management role with the Black African American Cultural Center, where he focuses on strategic communication and strengthening organizational identity.
Beyond campus leadership, he is a a creative entrepreneur and co founder of Luminoor Media, a visual and marketing brand dedicated to helping individuals and organizations tell compelling stories through photography and campaign driven content.
Mossaab is passionate about working with other POC creatives and creating space where marginalized voices aren’t always welcome. Greening Out presented an opportunity to combine his values with a larger vision.
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☆ Associate Producer ☆
Gasim Mohamed Osman is a 20-year-old Sudanese-American from Denver, Colorado. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at Colorado State University, while maintaining a role in Public Relations for the Black Student Alliance and serving as the Co-Chair of Marketing for United Men of Color. In addition to his extracurricular leadership positions, he plays bass, plays video games, and makes videos.
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☆ Art Director ☆
Elieana Garrick is a 21-year-old from Castle Rock, Colorado. Film is Elieana’s greatest passion in life. During her time in college, she wrote, directed, and filmed two short films. She has also worked in graphic design, creating graphics for social media and event promotion. She was initially drawn to this project as it was an opportunity to work with peers that she had been in college with on a deeper level. Working with creative, driven individuals on a passion project is an opportunity she is proud to be a part of. She feels that this is the most important project she has been part of, as it tells a story that people can connect with, relate to, and allows them to feel heard and seen.
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☆ Producer of Marketing & Distribution ☆
Kimberly Mayorga is a recent graduate of Colorado State University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Communication with Dance. Originally from Vail, Colorado, she is pursuing a career in documentary filmmaking, as well as dance photography and filmmaking.
As a first-generation Hispanic woman, Kimberly is dedicated to sharing narratives that challenge stereotypes and amplify marginalized voices, particularly within the Hispanic community. Her projects are grounded in compassion, diverse perspectives, and thoughtful storytelling. She worked for the ACT Human Rights Film Festival for three years as their Student Outreach and Impact Coordinator. Additionally, she has served as a Production Specialist for Colorado State University's RamVision and, through various internships and her own company, Kimberly Mayorga Media, has gained valuable experience in community outreach, media production, and communications.
Kimberly's most notable project includes her documentary Un Sueño Humilde, which she directed. The film tells the story of why her parents immigrated to the United States and premiered at the ACT Human Rights Film Festival 2026 as part of their student films. Another notable project of hers is her Senior Dance Capstone Performance, a multimedia presentation involving her own dance choreography, photography, and video. This performance continues the story explored in her film, adding her perspective on her parents and addressing themes such as the struggles of being first-generation and honoring one’s roots.
Currently, Kimberly works as a freelance photographer and video editor. She is passionate about creating opportunities for individuals who have often been overlooked and not given the chance to tell their stories. Kimberly aims to empower them to share their narratives through media in a way that is authentic and true to themselves.
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☆ Lead Actress ☆
Jahnasre Ram is a Malaysian-born, Arizona-raised actress represented by The Wayne Agency and Radical Artists Agency. She studied Psychology at Colorado State University, where she explored human behavior, motivation, and mental processes. Jahnasre has trained in a range of acting techniques, with an emphasis on the Meisner technique and screen acting. Drawing from her background in psychology, as well as boxing and dance, the actress approaches each performance with a dynamic integration of mind and body. Jahnasre was drawn to Greening Out's philosophy about exposure for POC creators, especially after having firsthand experience with declining opportunities for POC actors. Amara’s struggles also resonated with Jahnasre, as she navigates her own mental health struggles too. Overall, Ram was moved by the mission statement and touched by the realism of Amara's struggles.
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☆ Sound Designer ☆
Lucan Wrigley is an audio, music, and video producer based in Fort Collins, Colorado. His audio and video work have often been solo projects, with Greening Out being his first major collaborative production. In the past, he has submitted his films to Colorado State University’s Through The Student Lens Film Festival, winning the best film in the Earth and Sky category for his project, Bravo. Greening Out presented itself as a unique opportunity to be involved with Fort Collins’ film scene, and he found himself interested in getting to take the skills he learned through solo productions and bring them to an environment where he could be challenged.
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☆ Special FX Makeup Artist ☆
Jaime, also known as Formidable Jaime, is a 21-year-old Mexican-American (Chicano/Chicanx) artist and non-binary drag performer from El Paso, Texas. Drag empowers Jaime as they transmute their experience and skills into authentic expression while showing up to support other artists in the community. As a double major in Ethnic Studies and Horticultural Food Crops at Colorado State University and an officer for CSU MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences), they are dedicated to uplifting marginalized individuals across all spaces. Drawn in by Greening Out's mission statement, Jaime is ready to expand into film by supporting a crew increasing access and representation.
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☆ Special FX Makeup Artist ☆
Joseph Reyes, also known as Tooth Decay, is a drag performer and an undergraduate student studying Ethnic Studies, Political Science, and Art History at Colorado State University. Joseph has previously worked on personal short films, served as a designer for the Denver Paper Fashion Show, and performs as Tooth Decay in the local drag scene while designing and curating original looks. They are passionate about, and honored to be part of, Greening Out, which uplifts BIPOC artists, filmmakers, producers, and everyone in the field. Joseph loves bringing their drag community and the queer community to these spaces. With their innovative technique, creative freedom, and drag knowledge, Tooth Decay is excited to be working on Greening Out!
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☆ Special FX Makeup Artist ☆
Jaelynne Beaber, also known as Jar, is a member of Greening Out’s SFX makeup team and is thrilled to be part of the production!
Costume design and practical effects have been a passion of Jar’s for years. What began as experimenting with gore makeup in her bedroom with old makeup palettes and craft supplies grew into a love for special effects and costuming. She then went on to develop those skills through her local theater program before starting her education at Colorado State University, studying costume design with a focus on costume crafts and special effects makeup.
Today, Jar continues to expand her creative skill set both as a passionate hobbyist and as a freelance designer, always looking for new opportunities to challenge herself creatively, whether that’s through joining a new production or exploring personal creative projects!
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☆ Featured Musical Artist ☆
Farai Muchineripi is a Zimbabwean-American musician and creative whose work is driven by a passion for storytelling and self-expression. Through his music, he explores emotion, connection, and ways to inspire others, with the goal of leaving a lasting impression on everyone who experiences his art. Drawing inspiration from his abstract view of life and reality, Farai approaches his music as a canvas, where every thought becomes a brushstroke and every emotion introduces a new color, with each moment contributing to a greater masterpiece. To Farai, music is an experience built one sound at a time. Every note, texture, and silence carries its own purpose, resonating differently within the soul before coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
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☆ Pre-Production Photographer ☆
Denzel Hlazo was born and raised in Zimbabwe. He is a creative in many forms—an engineer, a writer, and a photographer. He creates images that not only tell a story but also resonate with viewers. For Denzel, the beauty of photography isn’t simply taking a photo; it’s capturing the soul of the subject.
Since Denzel began portrait photography, he has captured many images, each of which holds a special place in his heart. However, there was one shoot that truly defined the direction he wanted to pursue. It featured three men with distinct yet complementary styles and challenged him to think creatively in ways he never had before. That experience laid the foundation for his current creative work and ultimately led him toward fashion and brand photography.
Denzel’s photography is characterized by a unique editing style that makes each image more impactful and memorable. Post-processing is where he truly brings his vision to life, while the photoshoot itself is where that vision begins to take shape. He was drawn to the Greening Out film project because of its unique concept and the way it embodies creativity. Additionally, the project’s collaborative nature—bringing together people from diverse creative backgrounds—is what truly sets it apart.
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☆ Lead Singer of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Max Werth is a 20-year-old Korean boy who writes and sings with his heart. Growing up, Max used to make YouTube videos with his friends and draw. As a vocalist and songwriter for Weekend on a Wednesday, this is Max’s first time forming a band. But despite the newness, he’s been a writer for far longer and has spent the past year learning how to scream (scream style). “Tristin’s a pretty cool critter,” Max said when asked about why he got involved in the project. He also admires that so many people of color are involved, and he’d love the opportunity to show the world what Weekend on a Wednesday can do.
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☆ Lead Guitarist of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Alex Han is a Korean-American and the lead guitarist for Weekend on a Wednesday. His favorite food is daeji bulgogi, and his favorite manga is Chainsaw Man. As a multi-talented musician who plays drums and piano, he lets music drive his emotions. Music allows Alex to embrace and release emotions like sadness, anger, and melancholy instead of letting them build up. Whether it’s listening to songs or writing them, music plays a large role in his life, and he doesn’t know what he’d do without it. Through empathy, Alex felt drawn to Amara’s struggles, as weed used to drive his life and got him in trouble with loved ones. As the lead for WOAW, Alex is grateful that he no longer smokes and has prepared to step into his role.
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☆ Bassist/Vocalist of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Connor Hopkins is a 22-year-old artist from Windsor, Colorado, now living in Fort Collins. In September of 2025, he expanded his skill set by picking up the bass, formally becoming the bassist and backing vocalist for Weekend on a Wednesday. His most meaningful completed project to date is WOAW’s debut EP Eat Me Alive (available on all platforms July 13th), as collaborating with his best friends has been a blast and an incredible learning opportunity. Using three years of multilingual choral experience, Connor contributed vocals, songwriting, and bass to the EP. For Connor, it was the diversity of the cast and crew and the unique perspective not often seen in films that drew him to Greening Out. Feeling drawn in by the concept and welcoming environment of the team, he couldn’t turn down the opportunity to collaborate on an original song!
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☆ Drummer of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Gavin Leagjeld is the drummer for Weekend on a Wednesday. Before WOAW, Gavin played in Silicosis with his current bandmate, Kian McIntosh. He enjoys skateboarding and all things in life. Gavin’s ready to collaborate with Greening Out and apply his skills to a new creative context!
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☆ Rhythm Guitarist of Weekend on a Wednesday ☆
Kian McIntosh is a local artist from Loveland, Colorado, who enjoys playing guitar with like-minded people. He's been a guitarist for ≈3 years, and he was formerly part of a punk project with Weekend on a Wednesday’s drummer Gavin Leagjeld before the two joined WOAW. The community of Fort Collins drew Kian to Greening Out and the dedication of their lead singer Max Werth.
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☆ Featured Digital Artist ☆
Rianna Whitlock is a third-year student studying Electronic Arts at Colorado State University. This is the first full film production she has worked on, but she has her sights set on producing a Webtoon in the near future. Rianna was drawn to Greening Out because she’s always ready to expand her skills and resume by drawing in a style new to her.
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☆ Supporting Actor ☆
Aaydin Underwood is a 22-year-old African-American actor and musician from Denver, Colorado. Although he is currently a junior studying Performance Theatre at Colorado State University, he specializes in dramatic screen acting, and looks forward to doing more film projects in the future.
He’s taken beginner and advanced acting courses and starred in the following productions: Murder At Rundown Abbey (as Gus Gumbles), Footloose (as Ensemble), The Addams Family (as Lurch), The Pirates of Penzance (as Ensemble), A Midsummer Night's Dream (as Ensemble), Harvey (as Judge Omar Gaffney), Peter and the Starcatcher (as Betty Bumbrake/Teacher), and Rent (as Tom Collins). Guided by a passion for authentic storytelling, the actor values community, positivity, and meaningful artistic collaboration.
Aaydin is particularly passionate about working with fellow creatives from underrepresented backgrounds and strives to create work that resonates deeply with audiences through honest and emotionally grounded performances.
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☆ Production Assistant ☆
Taavi Machado (any/all pronouns) enjoys writing and sketching. Additionally, he has a growing collection of lenses he utilizes for photography. His past work consists mainly of poems, sketches, and photos. There is a vast amount of subjects covered within her work, ranging from the depiction of genderqueer experiences and bodies, Indigenous reclamation of Ancestral tattooing practices, colonial violence in the form of militarization and displacement, Indigenous language as resistance to borders, relational understandings of water in Arctic Indigenous communities, and various other topics. Taavi was most drawn to this project because of their relationship with the film's writer, director, and producer, Tristin/TUMEKA. They have a prominent respect for TUMEKA's creative process and feel honored to aid in the production of the film.
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☆ Prop Designer ☆
Lee Solis is an aspiring creative located in Colorado. She has been involved in numerous theatre productions in various roles, although she primarily works in Stage Management. What drew her to her current project, Greening Out, was the opportunity for creative experimentation in a highly collaborative environment with other emerging creatives. Having a passion for exploring marginalized identities in media and harboring spaces for representation, Greening Out is a project that fits with her creative goals.
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☆ Catering & Craft Services ☆
Tyler Orwa is a Kenyan-American that loves food, technology, music, his friends, family, and laughing. One of his most passionate projects is a mod for a game to add music he liked from various movies and shows. He was inspired by Oppenheimer because it is his favorite movie in soundtrack and vibe. He was able to establish himself in an unknown community and become the most established creator in that space. Whenever he works on projects, he’s usually motivated by personal interest or the desire to fulfill his life with things that make him happy. Greening Out drew him in because of his desire to help his friends, and also for feeding people good food, because he loves both being around his friends and helping them achieve their dreams.