Sophia, Japan Hub

DIRECTOR OF SOPHIA JAPAN

KOUTA SUZUKI

DIRECTOR AT SOPHIA, JAPAN

I was originally part of the main branch of Grin Green International in Bangkok. Participating and learning the intricacies of sustainability in Bangkok, I was motivated to initiate such in Tokyo. Along with the GGI team here in Tokyo, we plan on transcending lines and further introducing what is vital to current society,

SOPHIA JAPAN LEADERSHIP TEAM

KENTA WAKUI

As a Hawaii native, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of pollution and waste. Walking along the beautiful beaches of the Hawaiian islands, one frequently encounters debris left along the shore or plastic waste entangling marine creatures and tragically shortening their lives. The effects of pollution transcend what is seen through the naked eye; the pollution causes the stunning tropical beaches to be rendered hazardous and unsustainable for marine life. Seeing ecosystems destroyed by waste has become a call to action for the residents of Hawaii to protect our marine ecosystems and practice a more sustainable lifestyle for future generations.

LIAM NEVEU

In the face of global challenges, the embracement of sustainability will help us create a harmonious coexistence with our environment. I believe that we have the responsibility to strive for a more equitable and resilient society for the well-being of our future generation. Grin Green International Tokyo will help us move toward that world.

MAI HADA

MIYU LI

I knew the usage of plastics has been one of the global issues, I didn’t take it seriously until I started to work on it and see the “reality” as a member of Grin Green. It helped me realize that as residents of this Earth, we all should be aware of what is going on and be responsible for how we should face issues we have.

TAFFY DENG

I’ve witnessed the effects of irresponsible consumerism almost all my lite and the effects of it even more evident during my diving trips. I have always wanted to join and be apart of something bigger than myself and make a long lasting impact for the future and I thought Grin Green provided a fantastic opportunity to both accomplish my existing goals as well as establish new ones.

LEO ISHII

In our modern world, it is easy to forget about climate change and sustainability. Through learning about our complex world as a multinational student, it motivated me to initiate Grin Green International in Tokyo as it is our generation’s responsibility to find a solution to these issues.

Meet the Team

Meet our Grin Green International Hub Leaders

Geoff BAKER

Geoff is the founder of GGI as well as a passionate educator, entrepreneur, and social impact advocate. With over 15 years of experience in international education, impact investment, and social entrepreneurship. Based in Hong Kong, Geoff is a veteran educator committed to advancing experiential learning strategies and equipping students with the tools to take ownership of their education. Geoff regularly contributes to a highly-regarded peer-reviewed educational journal, sharing insights on empowering writing and experiential educational strategies. He has given keynotes on my areas of expertise at several prestigious events, including those hosted by TEDx, the United Nations, ServICE, and Lnoppen Group. Additionally, he has had the honor of being invited to deliver commencement speeches at international schools, as well. Whether through interactive workshops, providing experiential educational opportunities, or leadership training Geoff's commitment to helping students and educators make the most of their creative potential in today’s competitive, AI-driven world is what drives him.

Steven RISS

Steve is a committed, passionate educator, small business owner, and service-based learning advocate. Currently based in Bangkok with stops in Phuket and Shanghai, he is an experienced educator and school leader who advocates for his students to learn by doing through service-based projects that make our communities a better place. Through a combination of real-world experiences, critical thinking, and open dialogue, Steve strives to create an environment where students feel empowered to explore their passions, develop essential skills, and gain a holistic understanding of the world. By embracing metacognition and fostering intellectual discourse, he guides his students towards becoming lifelong learners who are curious, reflective, and confident in their abilities. He firmly believes in the transformative power of hands-on experiences, where students actively engage in meaningful projects that positively impact the world around them. By fostering a culture of service and civic responsibility, he encourages his students to become compassionate and active participants in creating a better future for all. As Steve continues his journey across diverse cultures and educational landscapes, he remains committed to advocating for experiential learning and the power of student-driven initiatives. Together, let us inspire the next generation to become active, compassionate, and engaged citizens who positively impact their communities and shape a brighter future for all.

Kouta SUZUKI

Kouta Suzuki is a dedicated university student and social impact advocate. Currently, he is pursuing his education at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. His strong passion lies in learning and promoting the concept of sustainability through the platform of Grin Green International. His involvement with GGI was not only a personal decision but also a transformative experience that has fueled his inspiration on a daily basis. He is driven by the desire to reshape the perception of sustainability in Japan, with a particular focus on providing diverse opportunities for students. His goal is to meticulously plan, coordinate, and deliver educational programs that leverage various environmental initiatives. He firmly believes that fostering education and raising awareness about global challenges requires the creation of a platform for meaningful discussions, dialogues, and collaborations. Through interactive discussions and a multitude of opportunities, he eagerly anticipates the exciting prospects that lie ahead. He is enthusiastic about furthering the GGI mission and merging ideologies with the hope to contribute to a greater cause."

Emmy JOSEFSON

Emmy Josefson is a passionate and dedicated educator with a decade of experience. Throughout her teaching career, she has primarily focused on history. However, her deep concern for the environment has led her to shift her focus towards environmental education. The realization that our planet is rapidly becoming uninhabitable has made her recognize that everything else pales in comparison. She is thrilled to be a part of the Grin Green team as it allows her to channel her efforts into a direction that truly matters. This opportunity provides her with the platform to combine her expertise in education with her unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. As both an educator and a mother of three boys, she is driven by the desire to make a positive impact and strive to leave behind a better world for future generations. In her role as the Doha Hub Manager, she is dedicated to fostering a culture of environmental passion and leadership within the team. She works closely with educators, students, and community members to develop comprehensive environmental programs and initiatives that promote awareness, action, and sustainable practices. By providing guidance, resources, and support, she aims to empower individuals to become environmentally conscious and proactive, inspiring a collective effort towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Mary VANESSA NARTIA

Nartia is an international educator from the Philippines based in Hong Kong. She has an impressive decade-long teaching career and is both a chemist and a passionate environmentalist. She has shaped countless students' minds, earning them respect and admiration as an educator who goes above and beyond. Beyond her role as an educator, Nartia's credentials as a chemist and environmentalist are genuinely remarkable. Her devotion to preserving coastal ecosystems is unyielding, as she champions causes like marine research and blue carbon initiatives. Nartia's work extends across borders, notably in the Philippines, where she collaborated closely with local rural government officials to develop comprehensive coastal rehabilitation plans, empowering communities to protect their cherished natural resources. Her involvement in national research projects in the Philippines underscores her dedication to advancing our understanding of coastal environments. Her influence extends far beyond academia and conservation, as she serves as a champion of ethical research practices, imparting her wisdom to others about the significance of responsible and principled inquiry. Her commitment to environmental stewardship is exemplified through hands-on involvement in coastal education, coastal clean-up initiatives, and community outreach in the Philippines and Thailand. Her versatility shines through as she contributes her insights to various international educational learning management systems contents and holds a distinguished position as a textbook author in the Philippines. Her innovative spirit knows no bounds, as she has designed immersive virtual reality environments to revolutionize science teaching, firmly believing in the power of cutting-edge technology to inspire the upcoming generation of scientists and environmental advocates. Nartia is more than just an educator and environmentalist; she represents a visionary catalyst for positive change, guiding us toward a future marked by sustainability and progress.