Unordinary Programming; Extraordinary Results.
Our organization, AZIZA PE&CE (commonly referred to as “AP”), is a non-profit that primarily serves girls, gender expansive and LGBTQ+ youth ages 14 to 24 - with a focus on Black, Latinx and Indigenous youth. The organization was originally founded in Baltimore, Maryland, but has grown regionally, nationally and has developed global partnerships.
Saran Fossett, the Founder/Executive Director, founded AZIZA PE&CE in 2008. “AZIZA” is the middle name of Saran Fossett’s daughter. It means precious, gorgeous and powerful in Swahili and Arabic. PE&CE is an acronym for Positive Energy & Cultivating Excellence.
AP uses the arts, fashion, fitness, music, mentoring and entertainment to address social, emotional, cultural, life and critical thinking skills. We use a non-conventional approach to address mental health and personal development which includes, but is not limited to: anxiety, depression, confidence and self-esteem.
In-School Programming
We offer programming during the school day to various schools throughout Maryland, and we are open to expanding nationally and globally. We are currently facilitating in-person programming but we are happy to discuss offering a virtual model if your organization is based elsewhere and is interested in working with AP.
Out-of-School Programming
From our annual fundraiser fashion show, STRUT, to our summer bonding trip, we also offer programming outside of the school space.
Summer Programming
As research shows, there is a loss of learning during the summer when students are out of school; however, AP is committed to providing programming throughout the summer, and we hire YouthWorkers as well. We had fully in-person programming in Summer 2023 (in accordance with public health guidelines).
“I think it’s a great way to stay in touch during these uncertain times as well as a way to still keep young people’s minds stimulated with interesting topics even if we can’t meet face to face. Also I see no difference between the face to face meetings and the virtual meeting they both have the same impact from my experience.”
— Program Participant on AP’s digital transition due to COVID-19
