Lily Ayau, Intern

Lily first learned about outdoor classrooms working at a nature-based preschool in Juneau, where she witnessed the students exploring the world around them through play.

Born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, Lily understood the value of outdoor play from an early age. After graduating from Occidental College with a bachelor’s degree in Critical Theory and Social Justice in 2019, she relocated to Southeast Alaska as an Americorps volunteer at a youth drop-in center. After her year of service, Lily continued to work at the youth center in various different roles, and in each one, she was struck by the brilliance, creativity, and resilience of the kids she encountered. Lily first learned about outdoor classrooms while working as an assistant teacher at a preschool in Juneau, where she witnessed the students exploring the world around them through play. Her love for the outdoors, her commitment to environmental education, and her passion for early childhood education inspired Lily to seek out nature preschool programs, which eventually led her to BOPN! Lily is thrilled to be joining this team of explorers and educators. Brand new to the East Coast, Lily spends her free time exploring her new home, going on long walks, and cooking for her friends.