the salt (commons)

 growing donors
into communities
through belonging













salt (commons) is led by Naj Austin, a cultural worker, entrepreneur, storyteller, and internationally recognized speaker on community-building, with over a decade of experience creating intentional spaces.

she has raised millions and curated communities, both digital and physical, rooted in deepening human connection and inspiring collective action. 

her work draws on diasporic traditions, movement history and the simple act of breaking bread, that make giving tangible and meaningful beyond clicks, scrolling or reposting.


through salt (commons) , naj partners with organizations eager to go beyond traditional fundraising, by designing programs and experiences that turn giving into a relational, and enduring practice.

like salt itself, these practices preserve and enrich communities, connecting people across time and space while embedding generosity into intentional, repeated acts.

naj’s work has been featured in publications highlighting her innovative approach to community and culture as well as her leading voice on building engaged, inclusive communities.


CNBC
REFINERY29
(ESSENCE FEST/SPEAKING)

HUFFPOST
NYTIMES
(HOWARD U/SPEAKING)
WELL+GOOD
FORBES
(AIGA NY/SPEAKING)
TODAY
EBONY
(COLLISON CONF/SPEAKING)



I believe that lasting impact
comes from intentional rituals and nurturing the act of giving into a practice of care.

I  believe that generosity grows when it’s rooted in connection and the courage to imagine a better world together.

I believe that communities thrive when there is space for presence, and relationships that last beyond a moment.