Eleven-year-old Nigerian-American Eniola Shokunbi has written to Nigerian authorities, requesting an invitation and security support to discuss how do-it-yourself (DIY) box fan filters — known as Corsi-Rosenthal boxes — could benefit Nigerian schools.
This initiative follows the recent approval by the State of Connecticut Bond Commission of $11.5 million for the construction and installation of these filters in schools across the state.
The project, led by Eniola as a fifth grader, aims to improve air quality in educational settings.
“I want to share this with the world, including Nigeria, where my parents are from,” says Eniola, who will turn 12 on December 12, during a virtual call with FORBES AFRICA from her home in Middletown, Connecticut, accompanied by her mother, Funmiké.
In 2022, while attending Macdonough STEM Academy in the Middletown Public School District of Connecticut, Eniola was inspired by an article about scientists bringing an air filter to the White House.
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Aspiring to become the first African-American female president of the U.S., she was captivated by the idea.
“I learned that this was an inexpensive DIY air filter, something you can make with just $60. That’s a really small price to pay for the benefits and protection it provides,” she explains.
Determined to improve air quality in her aging school, Eniola collaborated with Marina Creed, Director of the University of Connecticut’s Indoor Air Quality Initiative, to build Corsi-Rosenthal air filters with her classmates.
The project quickly gained traction, eventually attracting the attention of Connecticut’s legislature and securing statewide funding.
“I’ve been mocked for putting my career aside, but seeing Eniola achieve this makes every sacrifice worthwhile,” says Funmiké, an accountant and businesswoman.
She continues: “Parents need to listen to their kids, encourage them, and make sacrifices when necessary. I never thought the world would know me through my child, but here we are.”
Eniola says to her peers: “Don’t let age, gender, or background stop you from making a difference. Believe in yourself and stay determined.”
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