Hi! I’m Karina.

Black and white portrait of a woman with a red flower in her hair, smiling, against a green background.

Educator, Urban Naturalist, Writer

For nearly two decades, I worked in media and tech. I learned a lot, worked with some dope people, traveled, and even developed and taught Mass Communications curriculum at my alma mater. The corporate world gave me financial independence and a behind-the-scenes look at how these monoliths operate. It also required a fair amount of code-switching and screen time.

I always wanted a career that kept me outdoors. One of my favorite jobs was during high school and college summers as a camp counselor in Central Park where I learned Central Park has waterfalls. Now, this might not seem novel to some, but as a lifelong NYC kid, you come to believe that nature is reserved for upstate and that there isn’t much to explore within the boroughs. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Since 2023, I’ve worked with food justice and environmental nonprofits, supporting their storytelling and branding needs. Recognizing the link between nature-based education and children’s health, I also started a garden at my son’s school. From stress reduction to improved focus and academic performance, nature-based learning helps kids thrive.

My work today is rooted in the simple belief that every child deserves to know, experience, and advocate for the natural world right outside their door.

Photo by Peter Forbes

A young girl with short brown hair, wearing a sleeveless top with a colorful pattern and orange shorts, stands outdoors in front of a large bunch of flowers, with a green background.
A young girl with short brown hair, wearing a sleeveless top with a colorful pattern and orange shorts, stands outdoors in front of a large bunch of flowers, with a green background.

gardening since the 90s