Esther Oluwole

A Nigerian social entrepreneur pioneering sustainable energy solutions in West Africa through her organization EcoAct Africa.

Esther Oluwole is a visionary environmental leader from Lagos, Nigeria, whose work has transformed access to clean energy across West Africa. Founded in 2020, her nonprofit EcoAct Africa has installed over 15,000 solar-powered systems in rural communities, directly impacting 750,000+ lives. Her innovative pay-as-you-go solar model allows families to access energy using mobile payments - a game-changer in regions with limited financial infrastructure. Through partnerships with UNDP and the African Development Bank, EcoAct has created 800+ green jobs while reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 22,000 tons annually. Recognized as a 2023 Ashoka Fellow, Esther's work bridges technology and community needs, proving solar energy can be both affordable and scalable in Africa's most underserved areas. Her TEDx talk 'Solar Power for the People' has garnered over 2M views, inspiring global climate innovators.