World Explorers Group

In 2003, Kisha Edwards-Gandsy and Keyanna Murrill began laying the groundwork for NY City Explorers while in college at New York University. Starting with just a business plan, a cell phone, and little financial resources, the first programs debuted in New York City. As faithful teaching artists, they worked to design the first curriculums, excursion itineraries, creative child-care services and programs that have evolved into Brooklyn Explorers Academy Preschool, Backpacks & Binoculars camp and after school programs, and a host of creative enrichment classes, birthday parties, and flexible drop-off childcare programs. Starting with just their own personal work hours and a handful of families, their investment of time and faith has harvested opportunities for over 200 employees, and 1500 families across New York City over the last decade. Our future includes national and international expansion, franchise opportunities for other small business owners who have an interest in growing our worker-owner cooperative model, and philanthropic endeavors that ensure all children have access to high quality educational programs despite their family’s economic status.