April 2020 – Pursuing Environmental Justice – Ujunwa Okeke

Featuring Ujunwa Okeke
Fellow, Environmental Sustainability, G.L.O.B.A.L. Justice

 
Personal%2Bpic-2-2.jpg
 

Ujunwa Okeke is a young environmental advocate who is passionate about mitigating the impacts of environmental injustices through cutting-edge research, strategic communication, and campaigns. The focus of her education and work has been on understanding how advocacy, collaboration, and innovative systems can help drive sustainable lifestyle choices and human development.  

Ujunwa was born and raised in Nigeria.  It was there that she first developed her interest in ensuring environmental sustainability for all.  She received a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Meteorology at Nnamdi Azikwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.  After her undergraduate studies she was intent on furthering her education to focus on environmental concerns both in her country and around the world. 

Ujunwa moved to the Fort Collins, Colorado to pursue her studies at Colorado State University.  Using her skills in public speaking, problem-solving, team building and project management, she earned a Master of Science in Public Communication and Technology with a concentration in Environmental Communication. Her thesis was titled In Times of Extreme Weather Events: Gen Z and information Seeking about climate change on Digital Media

During her studies at Colorado State University, Ujunwa served in various roles that furthered her experiences and also supported global causes.  She served as a Graduate Sustainability Intern, Housing and Dining Services, Communication and Sustainability as well as a Teaching Assistant, Department of Public Communication and Technology.   She also served as a volunteer Public Information Officer for Defend Our Future (climate action group) and Public Relation Officer for Amani Club. In addition, she served as Vice President for the Golden Z Club – a student affiliate of the Zonta Club of Fort Collins.  She presently also serves as Board member of Living Her Legacy. 

Ujunwa’s efforts have been recognized when she was awarded a department travel award to attend the 22nd Session of United Nations Youth Assembly on sustainable development as well as received the Zonta International Jane M. Klausman scholarship award for Women in Business.  

Post-graduation, Ujunwa has been working on various outreach campaigns for Greenpeace.  More recently she served as the first Fellow in Environmental Sustainability for G.L.O.B.A.L. Justice.  She will be the featured presenter for G.L.O.B.A.L.’s 2nd Annual Earth Day videoconference on April 22.  Ujunwa will be presenting her fellowship research on the how the siting of waste disposal sites impact low income communities.

Ujunwa’s hope is to one day return to her home country of Nigeria and share the various knowledge and experiences she has gained to address environmental concerns there. Her goal is to one day start her own environmental advocacy organization.  Given her commitment to justice and environmental concerns, it is certain that Ujunwa Okeke will make an impact for environmental justice here in the U.S., Nigeria, and the world.