SAFFRON PHOEBE ZEFF
CEO & Founder
The FishFlop
EAST HAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL, NEW YORK
CLASS OF 2026
FROM GARAGE EXPERIMENTS TO GLOBAL CONVERSATION
Mushrooms, Sandals and Saving the Planet
As CEO & Founder of The FishFlop, I’ve taken fungi from the lab to the runway—creating sustainable footwear from mycelium and SCOBY. What started as an experiment in my garage grew into a company challenging the way fashion thinks about waste. Showcasing The FishFlop at the BioDesign Challenge at MoMA wasn’t just a highlight; it was proof that serious innovation can also be seriously fun—and that even a sandal can spark global conversations about sustainability.
For me, research has never just been about running experiments—it’s about asking, can this actually matter in the world? Whether I’m working with bio-based materials or exploring sustainable construction techniques, I try to connect every project to the bigger picture: how it could make life more sustainable in the real world. Along the way, I’ve had the chance to see that work recognized—like being honored as a Borlaug Scholar at Cornell University for research advancing sustainable agriculture and other recognition (see below). Those moments were encouraging, but what keeps me going is the sense that today’s small discoveries can eventually grow into real solutions to the challenges we’re facing.
AWARDS
World Food Prize Recognition, 2025
Honored as a Borlaug Scholar at Cornell University for research advancing sustainable agriculture solutions. My research paper underwent rigorous review by global development specialists, contributing to international discussions on food security and environmental stewardship.
Synthesis/Early SpaceX Student
As a kid, I completed the Synthesis Learning Platform (developed in collaboration with early SpaceX engineers), where I applied systems thinking to real-world sustainability and design challenges.
Princeton University Collaborations, 2024
Conducted independent research on sustainable architecture through mentorship with Princeton University and Penn State faculty. Developed and tested mycelium bricks using repurposed molds, presenting findings at the East Hampton Symposium.
National Recognition
Achieved Top Finalist status at the New York Science & Engineering Fair, earning the Ricoh Sustainable Development Award which resulted in 400 trees being planted, demonstrating measurable environmental impact. Received Honorable Mention in Physical Science at the New York State Science and Engineering Fair (NYSSEF) and a Commendation for Excellence in Environmental Science at the Long Island Science Congress.
What matters more to me is how much I push myself to explore.
Leadership, for me, has never been about titles—it’s about turning wild ideas into collective action. Like the time I ran 100 miles (yes, on purpose) and somehow convinced people to donate $4,700 to the African Wildlife Foundation along the way. Or when I rallied my school around Sink Pink and Dink Pink, transforming volleyball and basketball games into fundraisers that generated over $20,000 for cancer research.
These projects taught me that athletics aren’t just about competition—they’re megaphones for impact. With the right energy, a game can become a movement, and a team can inspire an entire community to care, cheer, and give back.
INITIATIVES
• BuildOn Representative
I've raised over $50,000 for educational infrastructure projects and am preparing to travel to Nepal to help construct a school. This hands-on commitment to global education equity reflects my belief that sustainable change requires direct action and personal investment.
• Vice President of National Honor Society
• Vice President of the Schoolwide Student Association
I've spearheaded major initiatives including Freshman Orientation and Homecoming celebrations. My leadership philosophy centers on creating inclusive environments where every student can thrive academically and socially.
• Co-Founder, Architecture Club
• Co-Founder, Bonac Bright Talks
Created platforms for peer learning and intellectual discourse. These initiatives have fostered campus-wide engagement with sustainable design principles and emerging technologies.
VARSITY ATHLETICS
• Varsity Basketball (4 years) -
Point Guard, 2× MVP Gatorade Award winner
• Varsity Volleyball (2 years) -
Consistent starter and team contributor
• Varsity Flag Football (4 years) -
Multi-position player, offense and defense
• Scholarly Varsity Athlete -
Recognition for academic excellence while competing
• IMG Academy (2 years)
Basketball and Volleyball intensives
• Gatorade MVP Award (2 years)
Earned for leadership and consistency