At the heart of The Emberleaf Collective is Keil Oberlander, M.S.Ed., an educator and facilitator with over a decade of experience in special education, college and career readiness, and educator development. A former Hawai‘i State Teacher Fellow alongside co-founder Dulcy Dawson, Keil is known for creating learning environments rooted in belonging, resilience, and radical authenticity.

 

Keil began his career in Hawai‘i, where he taught for six years on the islands of Hawai‘i and O‘ahu. He launched Wai‘anae High School’s college and career preparation department, founding its first AVID program and earning recognition as Sophomore Teacher of the Year. His early years in special education and later work in curriculum design, facilitation, and mentorship reflect a deep commitment to equity, student voice, and culturally responsive education.

 

Now based in Denver, Keil coordinates a multi-school college and career exploration mentorship, where he piloted the first all-queer cohort in the program’s history. His expertise lies in curriculum development, data analysis, and facilitation that blends creativity with care, helping both students, volunteer mentors, and educators find strength, self-confidence, and community.

 

Keil’s deepest inspiration comes from his grandfather, whose guiding belief was, “Whoever has a heart full of love always has something to give.” He embodied that truth, and Keil carries it forward—leading with love, bringing light to others, and empowering the next generations not just to survive, but to thrive.