In a remarkable display of cross-cultural collaboration, Oluwadamilola Sansadeen, a first-year Marine Sciences student at the University of Lagos, embarked on a transformative journey that transcended borders and united two continents. After securing a U.S. Consulate Public Diplomacy grant in 2022, Sansadeen’s trajectory took her from the bustling city of Lagos to the heartland of the United States for a profound exploration into permaculture and sustainable food systems.
Volunteering as a project manager at the ProtectOzone Sustainable Livelihood Initiative, an agricultural nonprofit, Sansadeen’s passion for sustainability was clear. It was this very dedication that caught the attention of Jeremy Cowan, PhD, an assistant professor specialising in sustainable food production systems at Kansas State University.
For two enlightening months, Sansadeen underwent intensive mentorship from Cowan, gaining practical insights and knowledge that would prove invaluable in her pursuit of creating sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.
During her time in the U.S., Sansadeen eagerly embraced the opportunity to learn and grow. She completed the prestigious Permaculture Design Certificate Course at the College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, a milestone that showcased her commitment to making a difference in the world of permaculture. As part of her experience, she also interned at the Willow Lake Student Farm, a hands-on endeavor that allowed her to put theory into practice and work with the very systems she aspired to champion.
Sansadeen’s journey wasn’t just about learning agricultural techniques; it was about fostering relationships and connections. Her time at Kansas State University enabled her to collaborate with diverse stakeholders within Kansas’ thriving permaculture community.
The exchange of ideas, cultures, and perspectives enriched her experience and laid the foundation for innovative solutions to global challenges.
The significance of this collaboration extended beyond the individual level. Joe Kruzich, the U.S. Consulate Public Affairs Officer, highlighted the enduring commitment of the U.S. government to fostering academic exchanges that transcend borders. By connecting a talented young mind like Sansadeen with a reputable U.S. university, this initiative aimed to not only nurture academic growth but also foster cultural understanding and collaborative problem-solving.
Jeremy Cowan, Sansadeen’s mentor, and guide during her U.S. journey, expressed immense pride in her accomplishments. He recognized her as an asset who injected new perspectives into the permaculture design certificate course and contributed to the endeavors of the Willow Lake Student Farm. Sansadeen’s presence resonated deeply within the academic community, as she not only excelled in her studies but also introduced Kansans to the vibrant Nigerian culture that shaped her worldview.
As her journey in the United States concluded, Oluwadamilola Sansadeen returned to her home in Lagos, armed with knowledge, experience, and a renewed commitment to the cause of sustainable agriculture. Her story exemplifies the potential that emerges when bright minds collaborate across continents, reinforcing the idea that innovation knows no bounds, and solutions to global challenges can arise from the synergy of diverse perspectives.
