by Tiffany Robertson | KEZA Intern

On my recent trip to San Diego I realized food and community are two of my favorite combinations. There was a lot riding on the trip from its inception. It was to be our first KEZA trunk show in Solana Beach, and our first KEZA staff meet-and-greet this summer. For me it was to be the first official meeting of Jared and Ilea (of KEZA) and Esther (the RISD intern), the three people I have been working with all summer, but had yet to meet. Turns out for Esther’s first experience of sunny SD, it was the coldest July in SD since 1939! Bummer for sure but it led to many other adventures like kayaking in the ocean, hiking Torrey Pines, driving along the scenic HWY 1, running by the bay, lots of Polaroid’s, wrong turns and eating!
Our trunk show was not as profitable financially as one could hope. However, one thing I learned about Jared and Ilea (and Keza for that matter) is that they build relationships and community where ever they go. Last Saturday night I sat around a table in University Heights, washing my hands with a warm wet knap in preparation of an Ethiopian meal in true traditional Ethiopian style—no utensils. An experience yes, but what made the night truly enjoyable and unique was that the majority present had met 3 days ago. ::UBUNTU::
The trip was fruitful and full of discovery. I got a taste of what an internship could look like had we all been together (proximity wise) this summer…and it’s hard to see all of what could have been, even so the tipping point is near…. and I’m anxiously active in anticipation.