(any pronouns)

Playworker, Member Coordinator & Treasurer

Ani (or Annika) has been working with children for the past 7+ years in various settings. While attending Loyola University for Environmental Science in Chicago, she worked at daycares, nature centers, and schools, eventually finding forest schools. When the pandemic hit the US, they jumped from child care to plant care. Following a passion, for almost two years, Ani farmed and planted native gardens throughout Chicagoland. Ani has a unique view of the world and loves storytelling, making up silly songs, species identification, and creating things with his hands. When not with kids, Ani spends her time on her many hobbies; maybe making a blanket, baking gingerbread cookies or learning a new skill.

Ani is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration.

(she/they)

Playworker, Community Liaison & Outreach Coordinator

Soledá Sunshine is a certified field naturalist, interpretive dancer and storyteller. She is a child at heart and ever curious about the wonders of the wild world. Soledá Sunshine grew up in a number of places around and about the continent, immersed in languages, friendships, and adventure; they bring scintillating stories of beautiful sights unsung, and of encounters with kindness in unexpected places. Alert to the challenges the Earth and humanity face, Soledá sees hope in playful creativity, in rooted adaptation, and in learning from the best teachers: the kin we have in all living beings and a queerly living planet.

Sunshine holds a BA in Studio Art and Geography from Calvin University, and a Field Ecology Educator Certificate from AuSable Institute of Environmental Studies.

(she/they)

Playworker

Magritte Emmanuel Nankin is a 3rd generation ceramicist. They attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago for Fibers & Material Studies and Ceramics, and was a Fellow in the Erikson Institute International Exchange Program. As an educator, Magritte utilizes the wealth of the forest’s natural materials to guide art curriculum. They are grateful to have had the opportunity to support children and adults in their art making journeys for the last 6 years.

(she/they)

Playworker, Pedagogy Coordinator & Operations Coordinator

Caroline’s love for nature play emerged while she was growing up in New Hampshire, making fort villages and dandelion soups in her backyard. After graduating from Oberlin College with a major in Environmental Studies, Caroline moved to Chicago and discovered a passion for nature interpretation and playwork. She finds joy in the humor and curiosity of learning alongside children, as well as in nurturing opportunities for social and emotional development.

Caroline is currently pursuing a Masters of Education in Nature Based Early Childhood Education at Antioch University. In her free time, she makes messy crafts, hunts for fossils, and watches reality TV.