Cristina Poggio (she/her)

How are you using education to build more sustainable and equitable communities? Tell us about your EE work and impact.

I believe that reconnecting my students to nature plays an essential role in involving them in environmental conservation and activism, therefore building a more sustainable future based on a deep appreciation for nature.

Every day I try to motivate my students to think outside the box, to be curious, and creative through project-based learning. By encouraging their individuality through education, students can recognize that every human being comes from a different context, has lived interesting experiences, and has unique qualities that can contribute to creating a better future. This builds more equitable, inclusive, creative, collaborative, and respectful communities by embracing each other's differences.

Tell us about your journey to where you are today. What inspired you? What has your path been like?

Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved the ocean, and my love for it has deepened as I have learned more about it. As a teenager, I took a marine biology and oceanography course that empowered me to take ocean and climate action. My amazement for marine life has inspired me to fight for its protection. My deep sense of connection to nature has motivated me to build a more sustainable future.

I’ve dedicated many hours to doing research, organizing activities, attending meetings, and creating materials to develop projects with meaningful impacts. It has been tiring and frustrating at times, but I have always given the best of myself in everything I do, and I believe that has brought me to where I am today. I’ve also been blessed with the support and guidance of amazing people. I feel truly grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had so far, and I look forward to creating a better world.

A Little More About Me

 If you could be any animal or plant, what would you be and why?

 I’d be a humpback whale singing, jumping, and traveling the ocean! 

What is your superpower? Which of your qualities best fuels the work you do?

My superpower is sensibility. My strong feelings, appreciation, and connection to nature and people fuel my work to build a better future for everyone.

What are your hobbies?

 Everything art-related! I love singing, photography, painting, and dancing. 

How do you unwind?

Doing yoga, walking barefoot on the grass, and looking at the sky.