The Bronx River Alliance’s annual Amazing Bronx River Flotilla is a one-of-a-kind fundraising event where participants embark on a five-mile journey down the Bronx River. Funds raised support free and low-cost community paddles for more than 1,000 Bronx children and families each year.
This year’s Flotilla was especially meaningful as the Bronx River Alliance celebrated its 25th anniversary. In honor of this milestone, paddlers completed an extended five-mile route ending at Hunts Point Riverside Park instead of the traditional finish at Starlight Park.
I had the privilege of sharing this experience with my cousin, Kimberly, who served as the “engine” of our Great Performances (GP) boat while I guided us through mini rapids and around waterfalls. The paddle lasted about four hours, with memorable stops and views along the way, including the New York Botanical Garden, hikes through the park, and rare sights near the Bronx Zoo trolley line. We truly enjoyed every moment of the journey.
I also want to recognize how welcoming and supportive the Bronx River Alliance staff and volunteers were throughout the experience. We felt safe, encouraged, and surrounded by people who were genuinely passionate about the organization’s mission. Every person we encountered was enthusiastic, helpful, and committed to making the event meaningful for all participants.
I’m proud to have participated in such a unique and impactful experience, and I look forward to building my own team in the future to join river cleanups, support fundraising efforts, and return for next year’s Flotilla.
A huge thank you to Liz and Great Performances for the opportunity to represent GP and be part of such an inspiring event.
About Stephanie Nino
Resident Solarpunk
“I bring the vibes to GP”
Stephanie is currently pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering at CUNY Eugenio María de Hostos Community College, with plans to graduate in Fall 2026. Her passion for sustainability, infrastructure, and community impact extends far beyond the classroom. Through the Hostos Student Leadership Program, Stephanie has dedicated countless hours to volunteer work and is being recognized with an award for her contributions to the community.
Deeply invested in climate justice and innovation in the Bronx, Stephanie participated in the Bronx Climate Tech Fellowship — a collaboration between the Bronx Tech Hub, Bronx Economic Development Center, and the New York Power Authority — where she explored the future of clean energy and equitable urban development. She also completed a summer internship with Voltpost and is a proud graduate of the Sanitation Foundation’s NYC Trash Academy.
Outside of work and school, Stephanie channels her energy into community, creativity, and fun. She co-founded the “Runsies for Funsies” run club and recently completed the Run the Bronx 5K. At home, she’s a devoted cat mom to Cacio e Pepe and Pecorino.
Stephanie is equally passionate about the arts and food scene in NYC. Recently, she’s enjoyed seeing & Juliet, Ballet Hispánico, and La Llamada. In the kitchen, she loves experimenting with bold flavors — most recently recreating dan dan noodles with spicy Impossible meat and peanut sauce inspired by her favorite dish at Spicy Moon.
A horror film enthusiast, avid traveler, and all-around adventurer, Stephanie is always planning her next experience — including an recent trip to Niagara Falls. And knowing Stephanie, there’s always “so much more” on the horizon.
