Bridgette Avoli

Pioneered solar energy distribution in Africa through women-led networks, reducing carbon emissions and empowering communities.

Bridgette Avoli is the co-founder and CEO of Solar Sister, a social enterprise that combats energy poverty in rural Africa by deploying a last-mile distribution network led by women entrepreneurs. Since its launch in 2009, the organization has grown into a 3,000+ strong network of women solar entrepreneurs across Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda. Solar Sister's website highlights their innovative 'Avon-style' model that empowers women to become clean energy distributors, selling solar lamps and home systems that replace dangerous kerosene lamps. This approach tackles three critical challenges simultaneously: energy access, climate change and gender inequality. By 2023, the initiative had provided clean energy to over 2.5 million people while generating $10 million in economic opportunities for women. A 2021 World Bank study cited their work as a model for inclusive energy transition strategies in developing economies. Avoli's leadership was recognized through the Schwab Foundation's Social Entrepreneur of the Year award (2018) and a TED Fellowship (2011). Her vision exemplifies how decentralized, community-driven solutions can create scalable impact - an approach gaining traction in post-pandemic development strategies.