Welcome to the Evolving Folks Project’s first-ever Evolved “Little” Woman of the Week profile. Each week, we will highlight an individual who embodies what it means to be an evolved person, famous and non-famous alike. The world needs to know their stories and deeds. This week’s honor goes to the student genius Eniola Shokunbi.
A student at Commodore Mac Donough STEM Academy in Middletown, Connecticut. As the school reopened last year, there was a project assignment to help people in the future if there’s a pandemic. Shokunbi envisioned and then led her team to develop an air filter system that helps remove cold and COVID-19 viruses from classrooms.
They make the filter systems using a box fan, AC filters, duct tape, and cardboard. Building one costs $60. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in North Carolina is testing the efficiency of the items sent to them. Tests confirmed that her invention can eliminate over 99% of viruses from the air!
In fifth grade, she spearheaded the project to develop an air filtration system to eliminate cold and COVID-19 viruses from classrooms. With help from scientists at the University of Connecticut, she and her classmates conducted tests. They collected data on the air filter’s effectiveness. They later visited the EPA to present the results. The state board’s unanimous approval of $11.5 million in funding for her filter project will facilitate the installation of air filter systems in schools statewide.
Shokunbi aims to install these air filters in every classroom in America, promoting a safe and healthy learning environment for students. Her focus is on highlighting the importance of science investment in protecting students.
She is eager to witness the project’s influence and its ability to positively impact people’s lives. Note Shokunbi’s name, as she aspires to be the President of the United States. Here is Shokunbi in her own words about learning and helping people.
“I want them to go to school knowing that they’re safe, that they’re health, that they can learn,”… “I really love explaining to people and seeing their faces, seeing them realize that this could change so many lives.”
We at the Evolving Folks Project wish Eniola Shokunbi continued success and growth in her inventions and scientific pursuits. Today, we honor Eniola Shokunbi as our Evolved “Young” Women of the Week.
Evolving Folks Project 