Efren Peñaflorida

Filipino educator who created mobile classrooms to teach underserved children, earning CNN Hero of the Year in 2009.

Efren Peñaflorida challenged systemic educational inequality in the Philippines through his Dynamic Teen Company. Growing up in a slum, he faced gang violence and poverty but resolved to uplift others. In 1997, he launched 'Kariton Klassrum' (cart classrooms), using pushcarts stocked with books and supplies to teach street children.

His approach bypassed traditional infrastructure barriers, reaching over 2,000 students weekly. The curriculum included literacy, hygiene, and environmental stewardship. Peñaflorida’s model inspired nationwide replication and partnerships with organizations like UNICEF Philippines.

Named CNN Hero of the Year in 2009, he redirected prize funds to expand his programs. By prioritizing accessibility and community involvement, Peñaflorida proved that innovation thrives even in resource-limited settings.