WHO WE ARE

Daja Elum is an environmental scientist, geospatial researcher, and educator specializing in GIS, remote sensing, atmospheric science, and environmental analysis. She is a Ph.D. candidate in Atmospheric Science at Howard University and an Imagery Scientist for the Department of Defense. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, and witnessing the disproportionate environmental burdens faced by underserved communities shaped her commitment to making environmental science, data, and education more accessible.

Amina Naliaka is a researcher and educator specializing in GIS, remote sensing, hydrological modeling, and environmental sustainability. She is a Ph.D. candidate in Environmental Resources & Policy at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where her research focuses on water resource management, groundwater sustainability, climate change, and sustainable agriculture. Her work also reflects a strong commitment to education, mentorship, community engagement, and increasing representation in the geospatial and water science fields.