Olapeju Okungbowa (Founder/Lead Educator)

Hello, I’m so excited you’re here! Almost six years ago, I started a Master of Science degree in Education for Sustainability at London South Bank University, UK. This program stirred up a passion to teach sustainability literacy to young children. I wanted to create a classroom that supports children’s problem-solving skills. I wanted my students to cultivate joy and wonder as they explore the world around them. It is this passion that birthed Xplorers without Borders.

I have successfully facilitated about five after school clubs for Pre-k-5th Grade students. I started a Green Warriors Club to teach sustainability literacy to 3rd-5th Grade students at The International School of IITA Nigeria, in 2017. This project was so successful that it was replicated at two other local schools in Nigeria after I led a workshop on inclusive education at Shelburne Farms, Vermont in 2018. I also facilitated the Power Ranger Club in 2019. The Power Ranger Club was an after-school club for 3rd-5th Grade students, that was designed to give students a voice and sense of agency to make their neighbourhoods sustainable, healthy and safe. One of our biodiversity lessons in Power Ranger Club was what earned me an exemplary grade in the National Geographic Educator Certification in 2019. In addition to these after school clubs, I coordinate an Education for the Vulnerable project where we organise literacy classes for ‘out of school’ children with disabilities in orphanage homes in my local community.

I love shopping and eating my way through new restaurants in the city. Planning any type of book club is my jam. I love reading too!

I’ve always wanted to have a voice as a teacher, and to find a place where I can nurture curiosity in children. Xplorers without Borders is that place for me. I hope it is for you, as well. I look forward to connecting with YOU, whether it be online or off. We all have a story to tell…

Jennifer Cirillo (Co-Host)

Jennifer Cirillo grew up in New York, USA and moved to Vermont in 1991 to pursue a degree in Plant & Soil Science at the University of Vermont. After graduating, she joined the AmeriCorps*VISTA program in Burlington, Vermont working alongside young people. There she coordinated an arts-based education for sustainability program and a state-wide literacy program. She then spent a year working with the City of Burlington on the Legacy Project, a 30-year sustainability vision. Inspired by these multiple connections Jen returned to graduate school at Audubon Expedition Institute to engage in further learning.

Since 2003, Jen has worked with Shelburne Farms where she coordinates professional learning experiences collaborating with educators to transform education systems towards sustainability, equity, and wellness. Her sustainability work spans international connections as she currently serves as a co-chair for the Regional Center of Expertise Greater Burlington and was a 2020 Teach SDGs Ambassador. Jen continues her pursuit of learning working on a PhD at the University of Vermont where her academic interests are focused on love and relationship in education. You can contact her at jcirillo@shelburnefarms.org. Pronouns: she/her/hers