Nominations
Nominated By Terrell Brown
“A day one Hillside Connection participant … Za’Mari doesn’t know it yet but he is developing the resiliency needed to succeed in the game of life. After not being selected for Hillside Connection’s Gold Crown competitive group, he used that motivation to become a better player and as fuel to explore life lasting pursuits ranging from: health and wellness (Zee has one of the best diet plans in the program), to fitness (Zee plays multiple sports not just basketball), and academics (he is a scholar in the classroom at Russell Middle School). He is learning there are multiple avenues to success outside of basketball.”
My Black Colorado Interview
What school do you attend and what year are you in?
I go to Russell Middle School and I am in the 8th grade.
What do you think others would say that they like the most about you? explain why.
People say that I am a nice person. I am a team player, humble and love to crack jokes.
When you are not in a class, what are the things you enjoy being involved with? explain why.
I enjoy my family/friends. They keep me laughing. They encourage me in life and in sports. My mom and sister are my biggest fans. Then I have lots of support after. I love to play basketball, baseball, swim, and play Madden
What is the best advice someone has given you recently?
The best advice is from my mom, “Work hard, stay humble and have a great attitude. That will eventually see me!” It applies in life too because everyone appreciates a humble and hard worker.
What is one thing you want to get better at? explain why.
I’d like better confidence on the basketball court. I can shoot free throws decent, shoot 3 pointers and pass well. My defense has improved. I need to learn to have a takeover “mentality “. Believe in myself!
What do you think is one piece of advice that you think adults need to hear, to help them connect with the younger generation better?
The piece of advice is to be willing to listen. Once you stop listening and learning you stop growing. I’d say older people should listen more without judgment.
What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of? explain why?
I’m proud of my karate past. I was a green belt and earned several trophies. I am proud to be chosen as one of the boys to be on Hillside’s first summer league 1 Gold Crown team where we won first place. I am proud from 6th grade until now my cumulative GPA has been 3.428 to 3.513. I am proud to be a brother, friend, and child of God.
What impact have you made in the community that you are most proud of? explain why?
The impact I’ve made in my community is I am known as a humble, honest, and loving kid.
What do you think you want to do for a career. Explain why?
I’d like to first go to college. I like Colorado State, Colorado Boulder, Jackson State University. I’d like to study communications which can lead to a career in teaching, news or a sports broadcaster.
What role have your parents played in helping you excel in life?
My mom, family, friends, and doubters encourage me. I want to continue to be a great mannered young man, work hard, and never give up.
