Meet Zeneta.

Born and raised on the East Side of Buffalo, I know firsthand what it means to fight for opportunity, to push through adversity, and to stand in the gap for your community when systems fail to do so. My story is not one of perfection, it's one of perseverance, purpose, and people. Everything I do is rooted in the belief that when we work together as a COMMUNITY, we can create neighborhoods where every resident feels heard, valued, protected, and connected to the resources they need to thrive.

As Council President Pro Tempore and Masten District Councilwoman, I have committed myself to leading with transparency, compassion, and action. I believe the government should not feel distant or inaccessible. It should feel like home. It should sound like the people it represents. And it should work for everyone, not just a select few. That’s why I continue to serve the people of the Masten District by listening first. The voices of residents guide the work that I do every single day.

I also understand the importance of representation. For far too long, women, especially Black women, were left out of critical conversations and decision-making spaces. I have worked to change that. In a short period of time, my leadership and advocacy have helped shift the culture of local government, ensuring that women not only have a seat at the table, but that our voices are respected, heard, and valued in shaping policies that impact our communities and families.

My journey to public service was not traditional. I dropped out of high school and became a mother at the age of nineteen. But giving up was never an option for me. After giving birth to my son, Zaire I was determined to finish my education and pursue my passion for storytelling and community impact. I went on to earn degrees from both Villa Maria College and Canisius University, and later worked as a videographer and producer for Spectrum News. Telling people’s stories taught me the power of visibility, truth, and connection lessons I carry with me into public service every day.

In 2017, I joined the office of then Senator, now Congressman Tim Kennedy as Director of Diversity and Inclusion, where I helped launch initiatives centered around equity, support, and neighborhood empowerment. I founded the Single Moms Club, a support network designed to uplift and connect local mothers navigating life’s challenges. I also helped organize the Annual Hamlin Park Community Cleanup in partnership with neighborhood organizations and residents who care deeply about preserving the beauty and pride of our community. Understanding the impact of food insecurity on Buffalo’s East Side, I also worked alongside community partners to help establish and grow a neighborhood community garden to provide fresh food access and strengthen local connections. I drafted and shaped legislation, worked with block clubs and the faith community, and created community programming. 

My work has always centered around collaboration because I know real change does not happen in isolation. It happens when communities, organizations, neighbors, and leaders come together with a shared vision and a willingness to do the work. That belief continues to guide every initiative, partnership, and policy decision I make.

Beyond elected office, I remain deeply involved in organizations that are creating lasting impact throughout Buffalo. I proudly serve on the boards of Villa Maria College, Community Action Organization, Habitat for Humanity, and Open Buffalo. Where I continue advocating for systemic change and equitable access for underserved communities. I am also the Vice-Chair of the 5/14 Memorial Foundation and Commission, Founder of Zeneta & Zaire’s Book Club and the Buffalo Black Caucus. 

But beyond the titles and accomplishments, I am simply Zeneta. I am a mother to my son, Zaire, who continues to inspire my purpose and resilience every day. I am the daughter of Paula and Charles, the sister of Jay, Janita, Charles Jr., Jessica, and Jazmyne and a proud friend, mentor, advocate, and neighbor to so many across this city.

Buffalo raised me. The Masten District shaped me. And serving this community will always be personal to me.

She is the change maker and bridge builder we need leading Masten.