Youth Energy Summit (YES!) 2023 – Post Summit Report

Post-Summit Report

In collaboration with

The view from YES! 2023

Exciting, empowering and inspirational. These are just some of the words people have used to describe the second Youth Energy Summit (YES!), which took place alongside the Africa Energy Forum (aef) in Nairobi in June.

Launched in Brussels in 2022, the YES! mission is to enable the next generation of energy leaders to develop the network, connections and knowledge needed to take on the task of electrifying Africa.

YES! 2023 brought over 1,000 entrepreneurs, students, educators and early career professionals together with corporate and development communities across the energy sector to meet, talk and make those connections.

• With the support of the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), EnergyNet funded travel and accommodation for the young people who needed it most

• A $5,000 prize fund was awarded to develop the best sustainable energy solution in the YES! Youthpreneurs Energy Showdown

• The summit also honoured champions in youth and energy, with awards presented by His Excellency Dr William S. Ruto, President of Kenya.

The YES! programme of talks, presentations and workshops spanned everything from the motivational to the practical – from leadership skills and careers advice through to digital tools and how to prepare a business plan – all designed to support and drive change for the future.

YES! also saw the launch of the Beyond Privilege digital platform, which will give access to online learning, networking and opportunities to everyone, wherever they are in the continent.

We would like to thank everyone who took part in YES! 2023 for their support, enthusiasm and their energy.

And we look forward to welcoming you to more from YES!, both online and in-person, in the year to come.

The YES! Team

I can feel the energy from the young people in the room!

Charlene Ruto, Youth Champion & Climate Change Action Champion

With thanks to our speakers

Initiative Providers

Joseph Nganga, Vice President for Africa, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)

Lucy Nyoike, Partnerships Lead, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)

Makena Ireri, Director: Demand, Jobs & Livelihoods, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)

Wanjiru Wambugu, Investment Associate, Youth & Entrepreneurship, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)

Ngalula Sandrine Mubenga, CEO, Autorite de Regulation du secteur de l’Electricite (ARE) & Founder of the STEM DRC Initiative, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Prudence Lihabi, Deputy Director, Programmes (Clean & Renewable Energy), Office of the First Lady & Founder, Youth in Sustainable Energy, Republic of Kenya

Nancy Muriithi, Green Growth & Climate Officer, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Republic of Kenya

Peter Thairu, Lead in Energy & Extractives, KEPSA

Almas Jiwani, President of Emeritus UN Women Canada NC & CEO of Almas Jiwani Foundation

Marina Fenka, Capacity Building Group, SDG 7 Youth Constituency

David Arinze, Climate Change Advocate, Global Focal Point, SDG 7 Youth Constituency

Raul Alfaro-Pelico, Senior Director, Global South Programme, RMI

Ciara Marie Remerscheid, Director, Shortlist Futures

Gathoni Kimani, Senior Associate, Market Strengthening Operations & Compliance, Clean Cooking Alliance

Phil Oduor, Public Policy Programs Sub-Saharan Africa, Meta

Mercy Ndegwa, Public Policy Director, East & Horn of Africa, Meta

Marina Panekeet, Programme Manager, IKEA Foundation

Chanda Chibuta, Country Director, Zambia, Challenges Group

Scott Cowan, Co-Founder & CEO, Africa Legal

John Kamara, Global CEO, Adanian Labs, Chairman of PLP & Founder, Afya Rekod

Susan Steffen, Director General, Pan-African Affairs, Global Affairs Canada

Kithinji Muriungi, Expert Fellow, Engineering for Change, IEEE

Jackson Kinyanjui, Institution Lead, Wylde International

Isaac Ngigi, General Manager, OFGEN

Obbie Banda, Underwriter, Acting RLSF Coordinator, ATI

Rosemary Oduor, General Manager, Commercial Services & Sales, Kenya Power & Lighting Company (KPLC), Republic of Kenya

Felicity J. Otieno, HR Officer, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

David Muthike, General Manager, Commercial Services, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

George Akelola, Assistant Manager, Legal Affairs, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Ronoh Kibet, Geothermal Project Engineer, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Catherine Leech, Geochemist, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Peter Jakobsen, Head of Human Resources, AP Moller Capital

Maureen Wambui, Investment Analyst, AECF

Lucy Mutuku, CEO, National Youth Caucus Kenya, Republic of Kenya

Isaac Chibole, Head of Economic & Innovation Department, National Youth Caucus Kenya, Republic of Kenya

Morgan Hillenbrand, Director of Communications, USAID Engendering Industries Program

Elizabeth Wathuti, Green Climate Fund Youth Champion & Founder, Green Generation Initiative

Mumbi Ndung’u, Chief, Growth & Operations, Power Learn Project, Republic of Kenya

Peace Amaro, Senior Associate, Uganda, Challenges Group

Energy Leaders from aef

Khilna Dodhia, CEO & Co-Founder, Kenergy Renewables

Paul Hinks, Founder & CEO, Symbion Power Group

Ahmed Mulla, Deputy CEO, Infinity Power

Edgar Kamara, Head of Origination & Structuring, Public Private Partnership Directorate, Ministry of Treasury & Planning, Republic of Kenya

Shaun Githuku, Director, Gridworks Development Partners

Aleem Tharani, Head of Projects, Energy & Infrastructure, Bowmans

With thanks to our speakers

Andrew M. Herscowitz, Chief Development Officer, DFC

Anne Sefu, Chief Human Resources Officer, Globeleq

Karen Breytenbach, Director, Juniper Consulting

Idesbald Chinamula, Director General, ANSER (Agence Nationale de l’Électrification et des Services

Énergétiques en milieux Rural et périurbain), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Lisa Witte, Acting Deputy Coordinator, Power Africa

Wangari Muchiri, Director: Africa Wind Power, GWEC

Thabo Molekoa, Vice President Southern Africa, Siemens Energy

Jonathan Hoffman, Chief Development Officer, Globeleq

James Agin, Managing Principal, Corporate & Investment Banking, Absa Bank

Moses Kachumo, Engineer Project Management, Geothermal Development Company (GDC), Republic of Kenya

Gbemi Otudeko, Principal, Energy & Infrastructure Investments, Actis

Olga Utchavo Madeira, Director of the Renewable Energy Office, Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), Republic of Mozambique

Erik Granskog, Founder & CEO, Milele Energy

Other Business Leaders

Charlene Ruto, Youth Champion & Climate Change Action Champion

Yvonne Okwara, Journalist, Republic of Kenya

George Njenga, CEO, East Africa Infrastructure Platform

Samson Ngure Mugo, Founder, MotoZero

Mathew Waita, Founder, Ren Engineering Solutions

Jane Kimani, Founder, Synergetic Energy Partners

Jasper Graf von Hardenberg, CEO, Daystar Power

Fahari Wasi, Head of Investments, PowerGen

Louise Mathu, Energy, Policy & Regulatory Lead, Gennis Consulting

Ebenezer Amadi, Program Manager, Sustainable Inclusive Business, Republic of Kenya

Andrew Amadi, CEO, Kenya Renewable Energy Association (KEREA)

Kevit Desai, Chairman of the Board, Centurion Systems

Eric Ohaga, Director, Nuclear Energy Infrastructure Directorate, Nuclear Power & Energy Agency (NuPEA), Republic of Kenya

Aatifah Latief, Professional Officer, Communications, Training & Education, City of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa

Murefu Barasa, Managing Partner, EED Advisory

Paul Muthaura, CEO, EMRD Advisory

Daniel Aryee, Chief Catalyst, Color Your Space

Entrepreneurs

William Kamkwamba, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder, Moving Windmills Project

Abubakar Shuaibu, Founder & CEO, Green Energy Mission Africa

Habiba Ali, MD & CEO, Sosai Renewable Energies

Grace Waswa, Social Entrepreneur, UN SDGs Advocate

Tracy Kimathi, Founder, Baridi

Faith Aweko, Founder, Reform Africa

Damilola Hamid Balogun, Founder & CEO, Youth Sustainable Development Network

I was given a voice to speak my mind, which as a youth is rare. Eternally grateful and can’t wait to attend the summit in Egypt next year.

Shelmith Wambui, Founder, Makaa Digital Solutions

With thanks to our speakers

Llyord Mwaniki, Chief Operating Officer, Zuhura Solutions

Warren Ondanje, MD, Africa E-Mobility Alliance

Olugbenga Olubanjo, CEO, Reeddi

Norah Magero, Founder & CEO, Drop Access

Elisha Caleb, Founder & CEO, AgroTech Plus

Calvin Shikuku, Co-Founder & CEO, Motobrix

Esther Wanza, Founder, Mpito Energy

Nelson Macharia, Founder, Makaya Hub

Isaac Ndyamuhaki, Founder & CEO, Asili Kwanza

Faith Nwaobia, CEO & Founder, YouthUp Global

Educators

Daniel Kammen, Distinguished Professor of Energy, University of California, Berkeley, Former Science Envoy, US State Department, USA

Mohamed Rali Badissy, Assistant Professor of Law, Penn State Dickinson Law

Izael Da Silva, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research & Innovation Strathmore University, Republic of Kenya

Geoffrey Ronoh, Founding Director, Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC), Republic of Kenya

Wikus Kruger, Director: Power Futures Lab Graduate School of Business, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa

Olakunle Alao, Research Consultant, Power Futures Lab, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa

Wilson Ofori Sarkodie, Lecturer, Cape Coast Technical University, Republic of Ghana

Prisca Atieno Ochieng, Operations Manager, Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC), Republic of Kenya

Early Career Professionals

Nadia Ahmed Abdalla, Communication Strategist & Former Deputy Minister of ICT, Innovations & Youth Affairs, Republic of Kenya

Zeddy Bariti, Principal Public Communication Officer, Ministry of East African Community, the ASALs & Regional Development – The Power Dialogue, Republic of Kenya

Noella Molefe, Chief Advisor, Climate Change, Policy & Strategy, Eskom, Republic of South Africa

Thuso Kuali, Energy & Infrastructure Manager, Standard Bank Group

Deline Ramiro, Operations & Partnership Lead, Solidarity Initiative for Refugees (SIR), Republic of Kenya

Judith Mbogo, Communications Specialist & Y-Gen Member, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Bob Osoro, Electrical Engineer & Y-Gen Member, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Nelly Kosgei, Nelly Kosgei, Rig Technician & Y-Gen Member, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Nenkishon Ntikalai, HR Specialist & Y-Gen Member, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Evans Bett, Geothermal Drilling Manager & Y-Gen Mentor, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Hussein Bakabsha, ICT Specialist & Y-Gen Member, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Emelda Kogai, Emelda Kogai, Mechanical Engineer & Y-Gen Member, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Amal Ayub Janmohamed, Engineer & Y-Gen Member, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Maxwell Ngala, Renewable Energy Engineer, Rural Electrification & Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), Republic of Kenya

Oluwatosin George, WREA Mentee, IFC

Michelle Njoroge, Market Strengthening Associate, Clean Cooking Alliance

Cherop Soy, Youth Ambassador, SEforALL

Jabri Ibrahim, Africa Special Programmes Lead; Clean Power, Green H2 & Clean Cooking, Climate Champions

Atiku Jafar, Head, Energy Practice, Transadvisory Legal

Students

Daniel Tate, Rhodes Scholar & Master’s Student in International Relations, University of Oxford, United Kingdom

Sandra Siwa, Student of Engineering, Kenyatta University, Republic of Kenya

Rejoice Ntiriwaa Ossei-Bremang, Student of Mechanical Engineering (Sustainable Energy & Environment), Cape Coast Technical University, Republic of Ghana

Pule Caleb Mundende, Mechanical Engineer & Master of Engineering Student, ZESCO, Republic of Zambia

26 countries

Mozambique

Namibia

Cameroon

Canada

Ethiopia

Germany

Ghana

Italy

Kenya

Lesotho

Liberia

Malawi

Mauritania

Mauritius

Nigeria

Norway

Rwanda

South Africa

South Sudan

Tanzania

Tunisia

Uganda

United Kingdom

United States

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Bringing people from various corners of the world to share and exchange ideas was an enriching moment.

Alex Sheunda, Student, Technical University of Kenya

Day One: Tuesday 20 June

aef and YES! Combined Opening Day

EnergyNet Welcome Remarks

YES! Opening Ceremony

aef 2023: Ministerial Roundtable: The Just Energy Transition - How Far Can Africa Really Go?

Day Two: Wednesday 21 June

Tomorrow’s World Today: The Imperative of Energy – Visionaries Discuss Why Africa’s Youth Have Everything Ahead of Them

YES! Opportunities Beyond Privilege & Levelling the Playing Field

Straight Talk – Through the Eyes of Students

An Intergenerational Discussion to Brainstorm Solutions that Engender Meaningful Youth Action in Clean Energy

Meet the Hustlers: Inside the Mind of the Entrepreneur

Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Energy Future.

A Crash Course in How to Structure a Successful Energy Project

The YES! Youthpreneurs Energy Showdown!

Networking Reception

Day Three: Thursday 22 June

Straight Talk – Through the Eyes of Business

Unleashing the Power of Youth-led Change in Clean Cooking.

Power of Togetherness – The Importance of Public & Private Sector Developing & Working Together

Using Digital Tools to Drive Your Energy Initiative Session.

Be the Success – Pathways to Leadership, Building the Confidence & Capacity to Take Charge

Young Energy Professionals Corner: The Energy Sector as a Home of Opportunities.

Educators Getting Innovative

Energy & Gender Stakeholder Roundtable: Prioritising Women’s Leadership for a Just Energy Transition.

aef 2024 Welcome to Egypt Networking Reception

Day Four: Friday 23 June

Preparing your Business Plan for Success

The Climate Youth are United: There is no Planet B.

Hosted by: Daniel Kammen, Professor of Energy, University of California, Berkeley

A Crash Course in Accessing Capital for Entrepreneurs

Global Advisory Board Meeting with Sub-Committees

Outside YES!-specific sessions, participants were encouraged to network and attend sessions within the wider aef.

Honouring YES! Ambassadors

Founding Members of the YES! Army – Be The Change

Champions of youth and of energy were honoured at YES! 2023, with awards presented by His Excellency Dr William S. Ruto, President of Kenya.

Sandra Siwa, Student, Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Kenyatta University, Republic of Kenya

Pauline Owiti, Professional Agronomist and Resource Mobilizer, The Polly Foundation

Christine Majeni, Founder & President @wiblue.org and Youth Environment Volunteer Coordinator, Global Peace Foundation

Ayobami Adedinni, Sustainable Energy Communications Specialist, Lagos State, Nigeria

Lucy Mutuku, CEO, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Margaret Muchoki, Student Influencer & Mobilizer, Daystar University

Ngalula Sandrine Mubenga, CEO, ARE, DRC

Timothy Gachucha, Power Learn Project

Mumbi Ndung’u, Chief Growth and Operations Officer, Power Learn Project

Daniel Tate, Rhodes School, Oxford University, United Kingdom

Dominic Musembi, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Akil Callender, Youth Specialist, SE4All

Bamidele Isaac Itunu, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Isaac Chibole, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Joyce Montet, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Isaiah Kilerai, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Beatrice Samanda, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

David Gods’will, National Youth Caucus of Kenya\z

Sheila Cindy Anyango, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Kivutha Kibwana, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Dominic Mbithi, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Faith Nwaobia, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Derrick Obegi, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Moses Captain, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Jacinta Wanjiku, National Youth Caucus of Kenya

Deline Ramiro, Solidarity Initiative for Refugees

Habbiba Ali, MD/CEO, Sosai Renewable Energy

Charlene Ruto, Youth Champion and Climate Change Action Champion

Janet Machuka, Social Media Influencer

Tracy Kimathi, Founder, Baridi

Humphrey Mrema, Youth4Climate Advisory Committee Member, Ardhi University, Tanzania

Nzilani Muli, Student Influencer and Mobilizer, Kenyatta University

Shiela Cindy Anyango, National Youth Caucus, Kenya

Olugbenga Olubanjo, Founder & CEO, REEDDI Nigeria

Oyekanmi Sherifat Funmilayo, National Youth Caucus Nigeria

Irene Gachigua, Youth Influencer & Mobilizer

Calvin Shikuku, Co-Founder & CEO Motobrix, Kenya

Zeddy Bariti, Principal Public Communication Officer, Ministry of East African Community, the ASALs & Regional Development

Grace Gosling, Amery Hill Secondary School

Gulliver Gosling, Selborne Primary School

Thuso (Xola) Kuali, Manager: Project and Export Finance - Energy and Infrastructure, Standard Bank

Harun Mwadena Muyesi, Advocate for Youth Empowerment and an Energy Champion

Atiku M. Jafar, Member of the International Board, Africa Law Student Association (ALSA)

Noella Molefe, Senior Advisor - Climate Change, Just Energy Transition, Sustainability - Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd

Rejoice Ntiriwaa Ossei-Bremang, Student Mechanical Engineering, Cape Coast Technical University, Ghana

Samuel Karanja, KenGen

Nadia Ahmed, Global Advisory Board Member, YES!

Anne Sefu, Chief Human Resources Officer, Globeleq

Lucy Nyoike, Senior Associate, Partnerships. The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet

Honouring YES! Ambassadors

Inspirational Stories

Be inspired by these interviews from YES! for the Let’s Talk Energy podcast.

Lucy Mutuku, CEO, National Youth Caucus Kenya

Lucy Mutuku talks to Grace Waswa about finding purpose, her passion for youth empowerment and the role of the National Youth Caucus in Africa. Find out why more young people should venture into entrepreneurship – and why believing in yourself is so important.

Ayobami Adedinni, Founder, The Energy Intelligence

Grace Waswa hears from Ayobami Adedinni, founder of The Energy Intelligence, about the power of storytelling, and how, as a young journalist in Nigeria, he was inspired to launch his own media organisation for the renewable energy sector.

Morgan Hillenbrand, Director of Communications, USAID’s Engendering Industries Program, USA

“Global research tells us that energy companies that have gender-balanced leadership teams report 59% higher innovation and creativity.” Morgan Hillenbrand, Director of Communications, USAID’s Engendering Industries Program, talks to Amine Lamti, EnergyNet, about the business case for gender equality.

Lucy Nyoike, Senior Associate, Partnerships, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)

In a brilliant conversation with Grace Waswa, Lucy explains the background and mission behind GEAPP, the impact of energy poverty on lives, and the GEAPP projects set to address this. Lucy also talks about women in energy, the importance of partnerships and collaboration, and has inspiring advice for young people.

Deline Ramiro, Operations & Partnership Lead, Solidarity Initiative for Refugees

Deline talks about her work in the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya. A refugee herself, Deline talks about the importance of digital skills to help build lives and create livelihoods. Find out how energy and power affect her work and the lives of those around her, what motivates her and what advice on leadership she has for other young people.

2023 Session Highlights

The YES! Youthpreneurs Energy Showdown

Moderator: Paul Muthaura, CEO, EMRD Advisory

Judges:

Gbemi Otudeko, Principal, Energy & Infrastructure Investments, Actis

Marina Panekeet, Programme Manager, IKEA Foundation

Andrew Amadi, CEO, Kenya Renewable Energy Association (KEREA)

Louise Mathu, Energy, Policy & Regulatory Lead, Gennis Consulting

Hosted by

The YES! Youthpreneurs Energy Showdown provided a vibrant and inspiring end to day two.

The contest? To put forward solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing the implementation of sustainable energy developments to benefit all.

Prior to YES!, a pool of 64 applicants was whittled down to six exceptional candidates, who pitched in front of a panel of esteemed judges: Marina Panekeet, Programme Manager at IKEA Foundation; Andrew Amadi, CEO of Kenya Renewable Energy Association; Gbemi Otudeko, Principle at Actisl; and Louise Mathu, Energy, Policy and Regulatory Lead at Gennis Consulting.

The finalists energetically presented a range of ideas and proposals. Benedict Okpala, Co-founder of Kiru Energy, put forward a smart off-grid solar network and virtual power trading platform designed to reduce the reliance of Nigerian small and micro businesses on costly and polluting power generators.

Several cooking solutions were also pitched. Esther Wanza put forward MPITO Energy, an enterprise designed to empower sustainable communities through the production of affordable and clean cookstoves. Mercy Kyalo outlined the work of Felon Green Ventures; and Brian Onyango explained how his Usafi Green’s clean cookstoves and briquettes are supporting the Kenyan refugee community and reducing the need for invasive tree species grown for traditional cooking fuel.

Paul Muhia of RayNow Energy presented a plug and play charging solution for electric motorcycles to help Kenya hit its ambitious vehicle electrification target. Godfrey Katiambo, from SafiSolar/Inno-Neat Energy Solutions, addressed the issue of water-borne disease transmission with a solar-powered filtration system solution.

The winning presentation, delivered by Mercy Kyalo, was announced after much deliberation and questions from the judging panel. Mercy’s enterprise, Felon Green Ventures, is focused on producing large-scale e-cooking equipment designed for schools and colleges.

Mercy, who received a prize of $5,000 to invest into her business, was highly praised for her knowledge of the problems to be solved, especially around the pressures being faced by schools and how her solution can be scaled and made viable.

On receiving the award, Mercy said: “I don’t know what to say! Thank you to the judges for listening to all of us.

“Our next steps are to complete production of the product and carry out tests. This will ensure that we have a solution that is best suited to our customer base – schools in need of efficient and clean cooking solutions.”

“Wow, wow, wow,” concluded Paul Muthaura, CEP EMRD Advisory and moderator of the session. “All of our finalists were fantastic… and this really encourages me about the depth and quality of wisdom that exists within our youth. To be in a room that focused on solutions was extremely positive.”

2023 Session Highlights

Using Digital Tools to Drive Your Energy Initiative

Moderator: Jackson Kinyanjui, Institution Lead, Wylde International

Participants:

Phil Oduor, Public Policy Programs Sub-Saharan Africa, Meta

Samson Ngure Mugo, Founder, MotoZero

Mathew Waita, Founder, Ren Engineering Solutions

Jane Kimani, Founder, Synergetic Energy Partners

Hosted by

Technology took centre stage throughout aef 2023 – a key theme that Meta grabbed by the horns, hosting an insightful talk that specifically explored how digital tools can be used to drive transformative energy initiatives forward.

“You’re probably wondering why is Meta here,” Phil Oduor, a Meta Public Policy Programs specialist focused on Sub-Saharan Africa began.

“Our vision as a company is to give people power and bring communities together. 6.8 billion people use Meta technologies monthly. And these are huge platforms that this sector, and young people, can leverage – to communicate as advocates and entrepreneurs; to build communities; to enhance awareness and push brand campaigns.

“At the same time, there are more than 200 million small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) using Meta technologies – companies that have actively experienced the incredible value that digital platforms can offer their businesses.”

Diving into the key takeaways of a recent Meta survey, Oduor revealed that 77% of small businesses and enterprises currently using at least one Meta app have reported these have helped them increase sales. Meanwhile, 81% reported that these apps have helped them create jobs in their local community, and 91% state they have helped them fundamentally grow their business.

Indeed, the company has been running several programmes to engage entrepreneurs and small businesses since 2017, including Meta Boost, Meta Business Coach, and schemes focused on empowering women-led businesses specifically, with representatives of several organisations that have benefited from these initiatives and the company’s tools present on the panel.

With Oduor handing over to session moderator Jackson Kinyanjui, Institution Lead for Wylde International, questions were then posed to these select individuals, who cited their experiences of using key technologies to enhance their businesses.

Meet the Hustlers: Inside the Mind of the Entrepreneur

Moderator: Olakunle Alao, Research Consultant, Power Futures Lab, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa

Participants:

Habiba Ali, MD & CEO, Sosai Renewable Energies

Atiku Jafar, Head, Energy Practice, Transadvisory Legal

Tracy Kimathi, Founder, Baridi

Faith Aweko, Founder, Reform Africa

Damilola Hamid Balogun, Founder& CEO, Youth Sustainable Development Network

The session was well attended. It focused on the entrepreneurial mindset and what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur. Damilola Hamid posited that having a clear vision is a must, as it lays the groundwork for later actions leading to achieving desired business goals.

Many youths have ill-defined goals, which makes it difficult for consistent follow through in growing their business for want of direction. Habiba Ali stated that a strong zeal and desire to solve a societal problem and then building elaborate structures to solve that problem is important for achieving entrepreneurial success.

Using the personal example of her life, Habiba explained how being raised in North Nigeria, where firewood was the main source of energy, motivated her to establish Sosai Renewable Energies to solve the problem of the adverse health effects (use of polluting stoves) and environmental degradation caused by use of firewood.

Networking and mentorship for entrepreneurial success is important, Atiku Jafar noted. Seeking out mentors and peers in your line of business helps to develop the right networks that can propel you to success. He emphasized that the youth must make sure they ask their mentors questions about how to navigate challenges and achieve success if they want to progress as entrepreneurs.

Faith Aweko of Reform Africa noted that partnerships have more long-term benefits in terms of building stable organizations as compared to blind competition. Therefore, she encouraged youth to prioritize partnership and collaboration over competition. She also mentioned that having strong values as one’s driving force is what makes one stand out in the entrepreneurial arena.

During the Q&A session, how young entrepreneurs can balance risk and rewards was discussed. Tracy Kimathi defined risk and reward in the entrepreneurial context. She said market uptake is one of the risks entrepreneurs have to contend with, stating that without a clear target market the business will easily collapse.

Tracy emphasized that young entrepreneurs must study their target market and get it right, noting that it is at this stage that many entrepreneurs fail. She argued that for a business to be unique, it must solve a specific problem or satisfy a particular need. She cautioned that whenever an entrepreneur receives aid to boost a business, they must be aware that the aid comes with extra responsibility in terms of accountability and deliverables.

Damilola Hamid observed that while entrepreneurs must take risks so they can generate profit, they must also be intentional in ensuring their business activities have a positive impact on society. He underlined the importance of prudent management of debt by the entrepreneur to ensure it is a means to grow that doesn’t cause collapse.

Navigating business headwinds is a staple of business growth. Damilola advised that entrepreneurs should always be ready to pivot when the business faces challenges that require a lot of financial input. It is usually a sign that the business is moving at an undesirably slow rate, and it may be time to consider other options, including moving on to new endeavors.

In his professional capacity as a legal advisor, Atiku Jafar encouraged entrepreneurs to always have written agreements with shareholders to avoid disagreements over matters such as profit sharing and equity. He said that youth should be well informed on matters of taxation, regulation, profit generation and sharing. Legal matters should always be a priority.

As the founder of Reform Africa, Faith encouraged entrepreneurs to share the story behind their business with the customers, as it helps in building a close connection that attracts customers and inspires brand loyalty. She also insisted that it is vital to establish a clear vision for delivering value to clients for long-term business success.

Damilola concluded by saying that entrepreneurship is a journey of daily discovery. One should always strive to identify problems and create ways of solving them by offering your service to society. You must communicate your vision clearly to potential investors and remember to tell your clients your story. The panelists concluded by thanking aef for organizing YES!

Author: Esther Kihara

Choosing to attend the summit was the best decision I have made this year. My mentality has changed and I am inspired and ready to be part of the solution of global warming in clean sustainable energy.

Peter Nyenzo, Student, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

2023 Session Highlights

Preparing Your Business Plan for Success

Moderator: Ahmed Mulla, Deputy CEO, Infinity Power

Participants:

David Muthike, General Manager, Commercial Services, KenGen, Republic of Kenya

Edgar Kamara, Head of Origination & Structuring, Public Private Partnership Directorate, Ministry of Treasury & Planning, Republic of Kenya

Olugbenga Olubanjo, CEO, Reeddi

Isaac Ndyamuhaki, Founder & CEO, Asili Kwanza

Chanda Chibuta, Country Manager, Zambia, Challenges Group

Failing to plan is planning to fail. That is as true for business as with any other pursuit in life. With YES! having been convened to help the youth explore, identify, and harness opportunities in the energy sector and beyond, this session was well in line with the overall objective of preparing and positioning the youth for success.

For investors to support business ideas, business plans must clearly convey the owner’s vision. David Muthike from KenGen shared the three critical Ds that many investors use to assess the feasibility of a business plan.

Investors diagnose the business plan to determine possible impact, its design to establish how it will achieve sustainable change and growth, and delivery of value to the customers. He noted that every business plan must adequately demonstrate how it will create value, emphasizing that value is not the same as money.

Isaac Ndyamuhaki of Asili Kwanza observed that young entrepreneurs must not fear failure, but rather seek to learn from it. He said that failure provides learning and teaching opportunities that trigger course correction when mistakes are identified and critically analyzed, thereby enhancing competence of an entrepreneur under various circumstances. David Muthike added that failure also helps to initiate and accelerate business innovation.

Olugbenga Olubanjo advised entrepreneurs to always select team members who strongly believe in the vision as opposed to only considering academic and professional credentials to build quality teams capable of implementing a business vision. He emphasized the importance of teaching customers how to extract value from products as a means of providing real value.

Chada Chibuta offered insight into the critical importance of including market analysis in business plans as it helps the understanding of the industry of focus as well as the target market. She said that, when faced with failure, one must always interrogate the real cause so as to avoid making the same mistakes again. She also advised attendees to start where they are with what they have.

Edgar Kamara from the National Treasury of Kenya, the last speaker, pointed out that even though failure is not fatal, entrepreneurs should avoid making the same mistakes over and over. This leads to stagnation. Instead, they should endeavor to grow and to get better at their craft. The session was very educational and provided a lot of practical insights for entrepreneurs on how to succeed.

Author: Isaac Chibole

The Climate Youth are United: There is no Planet B

Moderator: Daniel Kammen, Professor of Energy, University of California, Berkeley

Participants:

Peace Amaro, Senior Associate, Uganda, Challenges Group

Faith Aweko, Founder, Reform Africa

Murefu Barasa, Managing Partner, EED Advisory

Jabri Ibrahim, Africa Special Programmes Lead; Clean Power, Green H2 & Clean Cooking, Climate Champions

YES! is answering its call right here in Kenya and it is exciting to be part of such a wonderful convention. Much has changed in the last five years with significant developments being made in the realm of climate action, deployment of energy resilience projects at the grassroots level, youth engagement in energy transition, and creation of net zero pathways towards a just energy transition.

As such, this panel discussion was vital and timely given that the youth are at the frontlines of the climate crisis and energy transition. Faith Aweko spoke on the centrality of capacity-building sessions in empowering young people to utilize technology in their climate positive efforts with the goal of achieving optimal effectiveness and accelerated results.

Faith also spoke of the necessity to support innovation and adoption of the circular economy model at grassroots level. She encouraged the youth to continue uniting and supporting each other’s climate efforts because it is vital to save our planet regardless of the difference in our careers and areas of professional and personal interest.

Peace Amaro pointed out that rural populations are at the centre of implementing practical solutions to promote clean, affordable, and accessible energy, therefore indigenous knowledge in driving innovations should be integrated into overall solutions that often are based on modern scientific knowledge. In this way, indigenous knowledge can be preserved too.

The session was moderated by Dr. Kammen. He pointed out that young people should be at the forefront of energy and climate discussions since the energy crisis and climate change is the biggest global challenge of our time. He encouraged the youth to begin thinking bigger in terms of participating and contributing to international climate action and not just local action.

Jabri Ibrahim, a Climate Champion and African Special Programme Lead, remarked in conclusion that young people need to come up with effective and actionable solutions by first learning from experts and great researchers in the space. Young people must amplify their voices and call for everyone to be accountable for how their actions affect the safety of our planet because there is no Planet B.

Author: Isaiah Kilerai Keshoe

Be the Success – Pathways to Leadership, Building the Confidence & Capacity to Take Charge

Moderator: Nadia Ahmed Abdalla, Communication Strategist & Former Deputy Minister of ICT, Innovations & Youth Affairs, Republic of Kenya

Participants:

Obbie Banda, Underwriter, Acting RLSF Coordinator, ATI

Rosemary Oduor, General Manager, Commercial Services & Sales, Kenya Power & Lighting Company (KPLC), Republic of Kenya

Prudence Lihabi, Deputy Director, Programmes (Clean and Renewable Energy) Office of the First Lady and Founder of Youth in Sustainable Energy, Republic of Kenya

Humphrey Mrema, Chairman Youth Survival Organisation, Youth4Climate Advisory Committee Member

Peter Jakobsen, Head of Human Resources, AP Moller Capital

To achieve the goal of increased participation and inclusivity in the greener and cleaner future of the energy sector, astute leadership is required. That is especially so for the youth who at this point have the opportunity to start aligning their educational and career choices to the new tomorrow.

As such, the Pathways to Leadership session helped to give young people insights on how they can lead not only the ongoing energy transition, but also all other vital societal movements and paradigm shifts.

The first point that came out strongly was that young aspiring leaders should always endeavor to have a positive attitude in the face of both personal and communal challenges. That way, they can have the clarity of mind to innovate solutions and create a better life for those following their lead.

With leadership being about aligning people toward a common purpose or direction, it follows that leaders must be self-starters. Therefore, youth were encouraged to always take initiative in leading transformation and in finding solutions to problems rather than waiting for someone else to do so.

On the issue of setting themselves up to be tomorrow’s leaders, the panelists emphasized that the youth must have a clear idea of the impact they want to have on society and how exactly they intend to deliver that impact. That’s because having a clear roadmap helps to increase their chances of success.

As part of building the confidence and capacity to take charge, the youth who attended the session were reminded to strategically leverage their unique personal qualities to enrich their engagements and accelerate their progress in leadership.

That is because leadership involves a lot of social interactions and engagements. Therefore, awareness of one’s strengths and unique capabilities can go a long way in enabling to achieve both their personal and leadership goals. Overall, the session was a great eye-opener for the young, aspiring leaders present.

Author: Isaac Chibole

2023 Session Highlights

Energy & Gender Stakeholder Roundtable: Prioritising Women’s Leadership for a Just Energy Transition

Moderator: Yvonne Okwara, Journalist, Republic of Kenya

Participants:

Lisa Witte, Acting Deputy Coordinator, Power Africa

Hosted by

Olga Utchavo Madeira, Director of the Renewable Energy Office, Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), Republic of Mozambique

Idesbald Chinamula, Director General, ANSER (Agence Nationale de l’Électrification et des Services

Énergétiques en milieux Rural et périurbain), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Morgan Hillenbrand, Director of Communications, USAID Engendering Industries Program

Jasper Graf von Hardenberg, CEO, Daystar Power

Prisca Atieno Ochieng, Operations Manager, Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC), Republic of Kenya

Oluwatosin George, WREA Mentee, IFC

Susan Steffen, Director General, Pan-African Affairs, Global Affairs Canada

Ogla Utchavo Madeira said women should be incorporated in the workplace as more than menial workers and rather as decision-making employees such as managers, directors, and other leadership positions. She cited her organization’s work expanding women’s access to engineering opportunities in the energy sector through bi-monthly trainings for women in camps.

Prisca Atieno Ochieng questioned the idea of unpaid maternity leave and pointed out the challenges that compel women to stay at home to care for their children instead of returning to work. As a solution, she suggested that women leaders in the energy sector should strive to ensure that policies that facilitate women in the workplace and their return to work after maternity leave are adopted.

Prisca proposed the creation of more internship opportunities for youth in the energy sector as a way of providing the younger generation to learn in preparation for taking up leadership positions at the appropriate time. She also proposed spreading knowledge and creating a positive atmosphere to encourage women to train in STEM professions and acquire the skills necessary to excel in technical sectors.

Oluwatosin George underscored women’s capability to deliver in professional and leadership positions. She noted that organizations with women at the helm are stable and often have a major and positive impact on society by demonstrating that women can perform and lead, contrary to retrogressive beliefs and practices that imply women cannot lead.

The panelists concurred that significant improvement and growth is witnessed at the workplace whenever women are actively and equitably involved. Adequate female representation in the workplace increases the stock of sensitivity and tolerance leading to the consideration of various points of view and strategies regarding development. Women can have much more impact if they are given an opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

2023 Session Highlights

Session coverage in collaboration with

Energy & Gender Stakeholder Roundtable: continued

The panelists stressed the importance of women being fully involved in policy-making processes for the simple reason that they bring unique experiences and challenges that only they, as women, can speak about authoritatively. For example, on policies regarding maternity and family care leave. Women’s direct input has informed policy making in many companies and organizations leading to better policies overall.

Some employers may steer clear of employing many women, believing that overall productivity will decline when women take time off to give birth and to attend to other family needs and cares. Despite the challenges, the panelists encouraged women to continue standing up for themselves and taking their space in leadership positions without shying away.

Author: Joyce Montet

Press Coverage

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

Aisha Hussein

Aisha Hussein was awarded by the president during the generation equality launch in Kenya for the efforts she has put in order to end FGM by 2022, and is currently leading the End FGM campaign in Isiolo County as her pre–occupation. Her passion in addressing FGM gave her an opportunity to be elected by 22 young people across hotspot counties practicing FGM, as the National Vice Secretary for the National Youth Anti-FGM network.

With her passion to speak for the young people, Aisha represented the young people of Kenya at the youth Connect summit in Ghana in 2021 and the recent youth Connect summit in Kigali, Rwanda.

As a Muslim and pastoralist woman, she has been able to speak up on issues that affect women, youth and girls in her community. Through her community-based organization, Every Girl’s Dream, she has been able to transverse through the county encouraging communities to shun FGM. Her efforts in bringing together young people and imparting them national values led to her appointment as the Isiolo county Kenya ni Mimi Ambassador, a platform initiated by the former CAS, Ministry of ICT Innovation and Youth Affairs, Nadia Ahmed, to create safe spaces for young people to connect.

With her passion to speak for the young people, Aisha represented the young people of Kenya at the youth Connect summit in Ghana in 2021 and the recent youth Connect summit in Kigali, Rwanda. She also leads the gender department at Isiolo Youth Innovation Centre supported by UNDP and other partners where she has been able to give platform to young girls and women to air their issues. Just recently she was appointed as the Youth Senator for Isiolo county by the Youth Senate Kenya, where she will be representing the young people of Isiolo county and Kenya at large. With her passion and experience in peace building, she was appointed as a peace coordinator in Isiolo county.

Benedict Okpala

I am immensely grateful to you and the entire EnergyNet team for the generous sponsorship that allowed me to attend the Youth Energy Summit. The summit was a transformative experience, providing valuable knowledge and networking opportunities.

Thank you for the opportunity to present Kiru Energy’s Pawabiz project at the YES! Youthpreneurs Energy Showdown. Your support has significantly impacted my growth as a change maker in the energy industry. Thank you for believing in my vision and investing in my attendance. I am committed to driving positive change and will keep you updated on our progress.

Boniface Nsengiyumva

Boniface Nsengiyumva, a native of Rwanda, is an ambitious and dedicated individual who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Ashesi University in Berekuso, Ghana, in 2023. Throughout his academic journey, Boniface showcased exceptional drive and a strong commitment to personal and professional growth.

Boniface embarked on an internship with the African Middle East Leadership Project (AMEL), a non-governmental organization dedicated to training African leaders and fostering activism skills to effect positive change within their communities. This experience provided him with a deeper understanding of leadership dynamics and allowed him to actively contribute to AMEL’s mission to transform communities through empowered leadership.

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

In 2022, Boniface joined Emergent Climate, a non-profit organization focused on combating deforestation and reducing carbon emissions globally. Through this internship, he actively contributed to the organization’s efforts to address climate change and promote sustainable development on a global scale.

Boniface Nsengiyumva is driven by a profound passion for renewable energy and smart grid technologies. With his solid educational foundation, diverse internship experiences, and active involvement in leadership programs, Boniface is poised to contribute significantly to the advancement of sustainable energy practices and spearhead positive change in his community and beyond. His unwavering commitment to renewable energy and dedication to making a difference are the driving forces that will fuel his future endeavors and position him as a catalyst for sustainable development.

And five years from now?

In five years to come, I see myself as a professional renewable energy expert.

Chizoba Nzeakor

Chizoba Nzeakor is a recognized future leader in the field of climate and clean energy. She was recently acknowledged by the Aspen Institute at the Aspen Ideas Climate Summit in Miami Beach 2023 and is a member of the Queen’s Commonwealth Youth Trust Network. She is a member of the Commonwealth Sustainable Energy Transition Youth Executive, YOUNGO (UNFCCC) and SDG 7 Youth Constituency. A Climate and Clean Energy Professional and an MBA candidate at Quantic Business School. She is the Founder and CEO of Climate Technology Solutions, Zoba Advisory, and Caroline Raphael Events. She is also a Fellow at Student Energy and a UN-SDSN Local Pathways Fellow.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

The travel grant gives me the opportunity to join other Youths of exceptional vision, skills and experience who have a role to play in developing countries by designing and implementing projects that have positive impact in their society.

The grant shows me that I am valued in my field of work and I am most grateful.

The travel grant gives me the opportunity to join other youths of exceptional vision, skills and experience who have a role to play in developing countries by designing and implementing projects that have a positive impact on their society. Youths who are looking to deepen democracy, human rights, health benefits, good governance and economic empowerment with their skills and knowledge. Youths who want to advocate for climate justice.

And five years from now?

Five years from now, I am looking forward to drafting policies for credible energy governance and implementation of clean energy solutions, and building innovative solutions while creating mechanisms to help scale the just transition process towards the net zero goal.

The summit was very informative and goal oriented, it was a good platform to learn and explore in order to improve lives in our society.

Frederick Obilo Makajos, a member of the National Youth Caucus Kenya

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

Christian Narh Fiergbor

I am Christian Narh Fiergbor, a Business Administration Sophomore at Ashesi University in Ghana. I have a keen interest in Climate Finance and Energy Management.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

Winning this Travel Grant is a huge milestone for me to get to attend the Youth Energy Summit. As an inquisitive young man recently exposed to the energy sector, this grant is a timely opportunity for me to get a solid understanding of the energy sector and how I can contribute to the development of the sector as a Finance and Accounting enthusiast.

Daniel Tate

Daniel is a South African Rhodes Scholar who recently completed a Master’s in International Relations at the University of Oxford, and is due to begin a PhD in the same field, also at Oxford, later this year. He conducts research into regional energy integration in Southern Africa, focusing on South Africa’s role in the Southern African Power Pool. Daniel is an Allan Gray Fellow, holds two degrees from the University of Cape Town, and previously worked for the former Leader of the Opposition in South Africa, Mmusi Maimane, at the One South Africa Movement (now called Build One South Africa). Concurrently with his studies, Daniel has served at the highest levels of student leadership, earning multiple awards for his work in those roles.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

The travel costs were prohibitively expensive for me, and so I am very grateful for EnergyNet’s sponsorship making it possible for me to join.

EnergyNet’s generous financial support for my travels to aef/YES! has quite literally enabled my attendance. The travel costs were prohibitively expensive for me, and so I am very grateful for EnergyNet’s sponsorship making it possible for me to join.

And five years from now?

Having just completed my Master’s degree at Oxford, I will shortly be beginning my PhD – also at Oxford – and in the same research area – the politics of energy cooperation in Africa. The PhD will last approximately three years, during which time I hope to continue to represent students at Oxford in various student leadership positions, whilst also carrying out some part-time social impact consulting in the energy sector. Following the conclusion of my PhD, I am eager to return back home to South Africa, where I want to enact my core passion: to promote sustainable, inclusive, and people-centric development in Africa. This could happen in a number of different roles, but I am currently leaning towards working in civil service or international diplomacy.

YES! gave me the opportunity to learn more on renewable sources of energy. It gave me an opportunity to network and interact at a personal level with professionals and expertise in the energy sector.

Faith Joel, Kenyatta University Student Leader

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

Deborah Boakye

Deborah Boakye is a passionate and motivated student leader who is committed to improving the school environment. She has distinguished herself as the first female vice president of her University’s Student Representative Council by showcasing remarkable leadership abilities and a steadfast dedication to championing the concerns of students. Deborah has led a number of projects to improve student life since she naturally has the capacity to engage and inspire her peers.

Deborah’s commitment to volunteering goes beyond her position as a student leader. She actively participates in community service, lending a hand to neighborhood groups and improving the lives of others. Driven by a desire to create positive change, Deborah continuously seeks opportunities for growth and learning. She has participated in leadership workshops and conferences, honing her skills and expanding her network. Her proactive approach to personal development sets her apart as a student leader who constantly strives for excellence.

This award serves as a source of motivation and inspiration, propelling me to continue striving for excellence and pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve.

With a contagious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, Deborah Boakye is an exemplary student leader, inspiring her peers to reach their full potential and leaving a lasting impact on her school community.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

This award serves as a source of motivation and inspiration, propelling me to continue striving for excellence and pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve. It reaffirms my commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others and fuels my drive to create meaningful change.

And five years from now?

In five years’ time, I see myself in a leadership position within an organization or initiative dedicated to driving positive social change. Whether it is in the nonprofit sector, a social enterprise, or even starting my own venture, I aim to be at the forefront of innovative projects that tackle pressing societal challenges.

Djomna Carene

Djomna Carene is a final Year Master’s student at the University of Buea (Faculty of Engineering and Technology), Cameroon, studying Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Passionate about green energy sources, her Master’s project is about the integration of renewable energy in the electrical grid. Africa has good solar potential. In Cameroon, more precisely in the northern region, the irradiance of the sun is 5kw/m2, making the northern part the best site to install PV (photovoltaic) power plants. Integrating power plants into the northern grid will reduce the use of thermal generators which contribute to carbon dioxide emissions and hence climate change.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

I am so grateful for this award. As a student, it gives me the possibility to come in contact with major educators, industries, organisations, and investors. I am sure the conference will deepen my reasoning and knowledge in the energy and business sector. Also, I will share if necessary the knowledge I have gained so far.

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

And five years from now?

Presently, I am studying the static behavior when PV power plants are integrated into the grid. After my master’s degree, I intend to look for a PhD sponsorship to study the dynamic behavior of the electrical grid when a PV power plant is integrated into the grid. This study will make the integration of renewable energy simple while ensuring power quality on the electrical grid. My goal and objective as a woman is to become an expert in the energy domain. As a scientist and engineer, I would like to contribute to this energy transition and carbon neutrality and also train girls to invest themselves in the energy sector.

Enkono Johannes

Enkono Johannes is an entrepreneur and youth climate change activist. He has successfully completed his career in the field of Business Information Systems at IUM, and then furthered his studies with a postgraduate degree at Pilani University of India and obtained a certificate in database information systems. He is the founder and CEO of Johannes Technology Solution as well the Founder of Faith climate action foundation in Namibia. He has obtained the entrepreneurship level 4 certificates from Africa Leadership Institute through the Olafika SME Development & Mentorship Program.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

The award makes me feel proud, happy, overwhelmed and delighted.

The award makes me feel proud, happy, overwhelmed and delighted. Apart from the recognition, the award means to me that gaining vital skill and knowledge from the summit will take me to the next level in the years to come. What I gain from the summit, I must use it to do more and make positive changes in Namibia and in Africa. This award is the stepping stone.

And five years from now?

After five years, I am see myself as an employer to many. My ambition in life and for my organization is impacting other people through employment, and to be SDG change makers.

Faith Aweko

Faith is a social entrepreneur with a vision to fight plastic pollution. In 2018, she founded Reform Africa, a social enterprise that envisions to transform Africa’s waste into wealth through designing and transforming plastic waste into environmentally and socially responsible products that support the local communities in Uganda.

Her story has been recognized by CNN, Voice Of America, International Monetary Fund, and she has won awards like the SEED Award, Because International, Social Impact Award and Recycling Heroes.

Faith holds a mini MBA from Sinapis Entrepreneurship Academy, which has helped her to understand more of the technical and not just theoretical benefits of environmental sustainability. She has actively participated in the collection and analysis of data for the development of the 2018 state of environment report.

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

I am so excited to be a part of a summit that will bring together stakeholders from governments, utilities & regulators, development finance institutions, commercial institutions, technology providers, professional services MSMEs, graduates, early career professionals and educators across the continent, to drive the energy industry forward, and for me this is a great space to network, collaborate, meet investors and looks for partnerships to further my social enterprise.

My ambitions for the event is to strategically put myself in a position to meet the most prolific business developers, advisors and financiers because I know they are seeking to find exciting recruits and provide investment to African-owned businesses.

And five years from now?

In five years, I see myself as one of the leading producers of recycled school bags in Africa and I see each African child owning a Reform Africa school bag.

Jaariah Misyaje

A Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Greencare Waste Solutions, which is a waste to energy company in Malawi.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

The award is a great opportunity for me to learn, share experiences and network with people who have been in the industry longer than I have, which will help in ensuring the success of our company.

And five years from now?

In five years, I see our company having achieved substantial positive impact to people and the environment through employment opportunities and the alternative clean energy products we produce that are environmental friendly.

Jane Nakasamu

Jane Nakasamu is a registered International Energy Expert and a World Bank Certified Energy Modeller. As an award-winning cleantech innovator, she co-founded Greenbelt Energy, Zambia`s fastest-growing renewable energy project developer. Her work promotes access to energy through waste energy initiatives.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

Attending this conference will enable me to share about my work and connect with experts and investors. This is an excellent opportunity to meet energy champions from across the globe and create meaningful networks to support the energy transition, share information and gain access to opportunities.

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

Joan Bishio

Meet Joan Bishio, a dynamic communications professional with a passion for creating positive change in the clean energy sector in Nigeria. As an Information/Web Management Associate at Clean Technology Hub, Joan is making a real impact by leveraging the power of storytelling to drive awareness and engagement around clean energy issues. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing the clean energy sector in Africa, Joan has a proven track record of success in crafting compelling messaging that resonates with audiences and drives action.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

This is a huge opportunity for me to connect with other like-minded individuals and professionals in the energy sector from across Africa and beyond.

I am thrilled and grateful to have been awarded a travel grant to attend the Youth Energy Summit in Kenya. This is a huge opportunity for me to connect with other like-minded individuals and professionals in the energy sector from across Africa and beyond. As someone who is deeply committed to driving positive change in the clean energy sector, this award means so much more than just the chance to attend a conference. It represents a validation of my hard work and dedication to the field and an opportunity to take my career to the next level.

And five years from now?

In the next five years, I see myself as a leading communications strategist for a major environmental sustainability organization, working on high impact campaigns and initiatives that drive positive change in the industry. I could also be leading my own communications consulting firm, providing expert advice and support to clients across the sector.

Matsepiso Majoro

Matsepiso Majoro is the Founder and CEO of Mahlaseli Energy, a start-up renewable Energy Company in Lesotho currently offering off-grid solar solutions and water solutions in Lesotho. An accountant by profession with the Association of Chartered Accountants(ACCA), she has worked as a business development service provider providing Entrepreneurship training under African Development Bank Projects and the International Belgium Foundation(IBF). Has further engaged in studies in renewable energy with the MicroGrid Academy, Soltrain, Student Energy Fellowship and received scholarships from SESA nominated by SACREE thereby receiving Certifications in Energy Audit and Financial Modeling for Renewable Energy Projects by Kafue Gorger Regional Training Centre-Zambia. A beneficiary of Africa Trust Group under the Empress Fund, a fund that we reinvest in to provide access to finance for other Women-Led Businesses in Lesotho and across Africa.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

This award to me has been a highlight of my 2023 in my Energy Journey. The opportunity to be selected among such a large pool of applicants to me means that I am on the right track as an Energy Entrepreneur and motivated to want to do better.

I am most excited by the Leadership skills, which is one of the areas that will be addressed by the program. I hope to return an empowered, improved future Energy leader and to make big, strategic moves in the company. In this time, I hope to learn from others what technologies are being deployed in other countries and how others are navigating the Energy space.

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

Mopati Wabobi

Mopati Wabobi is a results-driven and visionary Managing Director with a proven track record in the renewable energy industry. He is committed to promoting sustainable development and driving the adoption of clean energy solutions. He has experience in renewable energy project management, strategic planning, and business development. His skills include Renewable Energy Project Management, Strategic Planning and Business Development, Financial Analysis and Budgeting, Team Leadership and Talent Development, Consulting and Client Relationship Management, Renewable Energy Systems, Sustainable Energy Planning, Project Management and Environmental Impact Assessment. As the Managing Director of Home & Away Consultants, he strives to deliver exceptional consulting services, foster collaborations, and contribute to the advancement of renewable energy initiatives.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

It represents an incredible opportunity to expand my knowledge, broaden my horizons, and forge valuable connections within the renewable energy industry.

The travel grant award holds immense significance to the Director of Home & Away Consultants. It represents an incredible opportunity to expand my knowledge, broaden my horizons, and forge valuable connections within the renewable energy industry.

With this award, I am determined to embark on a transformative journey of learning and exploration, gaining exposure to international markets, attending renowned conferences and seminars, and engaging with industry leaders and experts.

And five years from now?

Over the next five years, I am determined to position Home & Away Consultants as a leading consultancy firm, renowned for its expertise, innovation, and commitment to sustainable development. In five years, I envision we will have completed our pioneer grid-tied solar power plant and selling electricity into the national grid.

Finally, in five years, I envision Home & Away Consultants as a recognized brand, synonymous with excellence and innovation in the renewable energy sector

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

Nnenna Ebem

Nnenna Ebem is a young lawyer from Nigeria. She has experience in the Renewable Energy and Electricity Industry and currently works with an NGO that advocates for the use of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. In addition to her professional work, she is actively involved in volunteering with youth organizations such as YOUNGO and Green Energy Mission Africa. The latter is a youth-led organization that aims to raise awareness on climate change mitigation and increase the adoption of renewable energy to achieve net-zero emissions. As a co-founder of Youthspire, Nnenna is dedicated to leveraging the platform to amplify the voices of young minds in emerging careers for the energy sector.

It is an opportunity to engage with industry experts, learn from thought leaders, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share a common goal of advocating for more youth participation in the Energy sector in achieving sustainable energy solutions.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

The Youth Energy Summit Travel grant is a great opportunity for me to meet, learn and network with students, young visionaries, entrepreneurs, and professionals from all corners of the world to share ideas, insights, and solutions for a greener future. It is an opportunity to engage with industry experts, learn from thought leaders, and collaborate with likeminded individuals who share a common goal of advocating for more youth participation in the energy sector in achieving sustainable energy solutions.

My ambition is to lend my voice and be at the forefront in advocating for the use of renewable energy in my country and across Africa.

And five years from now?

In the next five years, I see myself as a lawmaker in the parliament. It is important to have favorable laws and policies that will drive the energy sector.

Suzana Fred Munuo

Suzana Fred Munuo is a dedicated profession with diverse background in youth development initiatives, biogas installation, environmental preservation, and digital technologies.

After completing her studies from Sokoine University of Agriculture with a BSc in Bio-Process and Post-Harvest Engineering, (SUA). Suzana embarked on a career focused on creating positive change and promoting sustainable practices. She gained invaluable experience by working with both government and non-governmental organizations in Tanzania. These experiences exposed her to diverse perspectives on challenges facing the environmental and provided her with an opportunity to develop solutions to address it.

Driven by her passion and expertise, Suzana founded Gilsun Technologies, where she currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Gilsun Technologies is a pioneering company that specializes in biogas installation and environmental preservation. Under Suzana’s leadership, the company has emerged as a frontrunner in the Tanzanian biogas industry, offering sustainable energy solutions that mitigate the harmful effects of traditional energy sources and reducing carbon emissions.

Suzana’s vision for Gilsun Technologies goes beyond mere business success. She envisions a greener and more sustainable future, where biogas technology plays a pivotal role in addressing energy challenges and protecting the environment. By promoting the adoption of biogas systems, Suzana aims to provide communities, businesses and institutions with access to clean and affordable energy while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint.

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

This award holds a significant meaning to me. Firstly, the award highlights the passion I have for promoting sustainable energy solutions and protecting the environment. The award will provide a platform for me to share my knowledge, experiences, and ideas with other like-minded individuals and organizations attending the summit. This exposure will help me expand my network, gain valuable insights, and establish myself as a thought leader in the field.

This exposure will help me expand my network, gain valuable insights, and establish myself as a thought leader in the field.

On the broader impact to the society, I believe this opportunity will uplift the energy sector and environmental conservation agenda, as the summit provides a platform for advocating adoption of biogas technology on a larger scale, biogas awareness and its benefits, as well as providing room to influence policymakers on sustainable energy solutions.

And five years from now?

In the long run, I see myself invested in environmental protection and driving growth of sustainable energy industry. With Gilsun Technologies as a leading player in the biogas industry, we will continue promotion of clean cooking use through biogas technology in Tanzanian homes and be frontline in implementation of other biogas projects – our aim being contributing towards a greener future. Additionally, we will continue to support renewable energy initiatives and the environment protection agenda at large.

Tamuda Dyirakumunda

My name’s Tamuda and I’m a 22-year-old Mechanical Engineering student from Zimbabwe.

I’m passionate about finding ways to move Africa forward sustainably, and I’m certain that adopting Renewable Energy is a step in the right direction.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

I’m extremely grateful for the chance to attend YES! and meet like-minded people from across the continent, people doing really meaningful work in this space, work that I can learn from and emulate.

I know this program will equip me with the skills to create impact in my own community, and I was honestly surprised when I got accepted, so again I’m extremely grateful, and will certainly exploit the opportunity to learn as much as I can.

at BBOXX

The Youth Energy Summit has allowed me to network with young leaders with an exceptional vision to drive energy sustainability. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity to contribute and be part of the clean energy revolution. I look forward to future collaborations engaging the youth in clean cooking for a just and inclusive sustainable energy transition.

Beatrice Gesisa, Innovation Analyst

Some of our Travel Grant Winners…

Mr. Wilson Ofori Sarkodie

Mr. Wilson Ofori Sarkodie is a Ghanaian citizen, currently serving as a distinguished lecturer at the Department of Renewable Energy Technology at the Cape Coast Technical University in Ghana. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Sarkodie is pursuing his final year as a doctoral candidate in Sustainable Energy Engineering and Management at the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Ghana.

Mr. Sarkodie holds a master’s degree in Energy Engineering from the Pan African University Institute of Water and Energy Sciences (Including Climate Change) in Algeria. Prior to that, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana.

Combining his academic pursuits with professional experience, Mr. Sarkodie has worked with both local and international organizations. Noteworthy among these are his contributions to institutions such as the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in Algeria, African Development Bank (AfDB) in Ethiopia, Brew-Hammond Energy Centre in Ghana, and West African Science Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use in Burkina Faso.

The YES! award signifies a turning point in my career development, a reminder of the progress made, and a catalyst for further development and accomplishment.

Furthermore, Wilson is a co-founder of MODCOAL, a promising start-up dedicated to utilizing crop residues to produce briquettes, thereby addressing deforestation concerns in the northern region of Ghana. He remains receptive to forging strategic partnerships that can unleash the full potential of this business venture. Additionally, he is the Founder of Primus Kidz Foundation, an organization committed to providing educational and compassionate support to underprivileged children in Ghana.

What does the YES! travel grant mean to you?

The YES! award signifies a turning point in my career development, a reminder of the progress made, and a catalyst for further development and accomplishment. This is also bolstering my motivation to continue making a positive impact in my area of expertise or endeavor, in order to make the world a better place for all.

And five years from now?

In the next five years I envision myself as an energy leader making significant contributions to sustainable energy practices and addressing the industry’s challenges through applied research. Also, I see myself actively promoting innovation and implementing renewable energy solutions to combat climate change and lower carbon emissions.

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This event has been impactful, it has been collaborative and it’s been amazing.

Granny Lesiamang, Clauseph Enterprises Pty Ltd