Hi! My name is Kira and I’m 23 years old and graduated from the University of Oregon two years ago where I studied environmental science, geography, and political science. I’ve been traveling the world ever since! I currently have a renewable energy internship in Tokyo, and in August 2024, I will be starting my master's program in sustainable energy at Johns Hopkins University SAIS.

I was born in Tanzania and lived in Australia for about 10 years before I moved to Oregon independently when I was 15, and I’ve been dreaming of traveling the world and being a free spirit my whole life. I've so far been to about 37 countries due to my parents' international lifestyles (father worked in the United Nations, mother immigrated to Australia from Burma), and my background has led me to be adventurous and curious about the world! I love meeting people, immersing in colorful cultures, exploring new places, studying conservation and ecology, teaching kids about the environment, and spreading appreciation and love for our planet.

I have had incredible experiences with Couchsurfing and hope to meet some more wonderful people throughout my journey! Keen to make new connections and change the world one positive encounter at a time, and if you are working in the sustainability/environmental/international policy fields, I would love to connect!

Instagram: @kiraflowerz
YouTube: @kiraflowerz

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I was actually recommended Couchsurfing by my dad, who had an incredibly rewarding experience as both a host and guest over the past 15 years. The concept seems too good to be true and I thought I ought to try it out for myself. He was totally right and I’ve met the most incredible people through this platform that I’ve stayed in touch with ever since! I’ve loved seeing new corners of the world, and I’ve met some incredible people, stayed in unique places, and had a lot of fun experiences biking, running, dining, camping, and touring with hosts and other travelers! Your vibe attracts your tribe😊

Interests

• writing
• photography
• festivals
• cooking
• music
• hiking
• backpacking
• camping
• cultural immersion
• travel
• nature
• exploring
• ceramics

Music, Movies, and Books

Like A Tattoo- Sade
Ponyo
The Alchemist- Paulo Coelho

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Backpacked in the Amazon Rainforest at night to collect data and calculate insect biodiversity. Saw so many incredible insects and animals and it felt like I was in an alien world with all of the sounds of nature. One of the most surreal experiences of my life being so deep in the jungle with only our headlamps lighting the way.

Teach, Learn, Share

I have experience teaching students and taking care of kids, farming, designing green city infrastructure, waitressing and bartending, surviving in the wilderness, and studying ecosystems.
I studied abroad in Peru and learned about conservation, identifying plants and insects and other animals, conducting scientific experiments, and doing outdoor field work. During this time I developed so much love for science and research.
In my last year of university I had the opportunity to teach over 100 students in a beautiful forest in Oregon.
After graduation I started traveling around the world and working all kinds of jobs in Australia, Vietnam, and Japan, using my 8+ years of hospitality and customer service experience as a barista, bartender, waitress, karaoke bar hostess, and ice cream artist. It’s been an interesting career path to say the least, but traveling this way has taught me the thrill of adventure and to stay curious.
Right now I intern at the Institute of Sustainable Energy Policy in Tokyo, Japan as a data analyst and consultant, and I have been on the frontline of global renewable energy policies and presented comprehensive sustainability plans for cities in Japan allocated varying budgets. My passion for sustainability and a survivable future for our planet and humanity grows each day, and it has been a wonderful experience having discussions with people who share the same vision for the future.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share my bright, happy, and optimistic personality, my appreciation for nature, and fun stories from countries to every continent (unfortunately not including Antarctica yet)! :) I also love card games, cooking with hosts, and am a conversationalist, so I look forward to meeting you!

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Cambodia, Canada, Colombia, Czech Republic, England, France, Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Laos, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Montenegro, Myanmar, New Zealand, Peru, Philippines, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sudan, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, Tanzania, United States