Middle Schooler “Eniola Shokunbi” isn’t your typical sixth grader. With a drive that has already caught the attention of state senators and scientists alike, Eniola is spearheading an impressive $11.5 million project to install affordable, effective air filters in schools across Connecticut—a mission born from her concern for classroom health.
As a fifth-grader at Middletown’s Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy, Eniola assembled her first air filter out of household materials: just a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape, and cardboard. This inventive solution targeted viruses in the classroom air, and the results were promising. Backed by a team of classmates, and with support from University of Connecticut scientists, she rigorously tested her creation, eventually presenting her findings at the EPA.
Simple Design, Powerful Impact
In the words of State Senator Matt Lesser, “This stuff is more effective than a lot of the commercial products on the market; it’s a lot cheaper and a lot more effective.” The homemade air filter caught the eye of both state officials and public health advocates looking for practical solutions to safeguard students from airborne viruses. The simplicity and affordability of Eniola’s design made it particularly appealing, demonstrating that big problems don’t always require high-tech, expensive solutions.
This passion project resonated well beyond Eniola’s own classroom, catching the attention of the Connecticut State Bond Commission. Recognizing the life-saving potential of the initiative, they unanimously approved $11.5 million for the large-scale assembly and installation of these filters across Connecticut schools. Watching her vision take root, Eniola expressed her motivation, saying, “I want [students] to go to school knowing that they’re safe, that they’re healthy, that they can learn.”
A Young Leader Eniola Shokunbi with Big Dreams
Beyond making classrooms safer, Eniola has her eyes set on a larger goal—becoming President of the United States. But for now, she’s dedicated to reaching every classroom in America with this affordable filtration solution, bringing hope and safety to students nationwide. “I really love explaining to people and seeing their faces,” she added, “seeing them realize that this could change so many lives.”
Her achievement is a testament to the power of youth leadership, innovation, and the value of community-centered solutions.
