Join us in the YES! Walk with Me Program, where you can read and explore the inspiring stories of YES! grant beneficiaries and other members who have made remarkable strides in their professional development within the energy sector. We are thrilled to highlight the incredible accomplishments of our YES! community members:
How Emmanuel Terwase and his energy start-up Boost Power got a boost from YES!
In 2023, Emmanuel was one of the young entrepreneurs funded, from thousands of applicants, to join the YES! Youth Energy Summit in Nairobi, where he was given access to workshops, investors and advisors. Today, he is the co-founder and CEO of Boost Power in Nigeria, providing electricity to 40 shops in Nigeria as part of his initial pilot project.
Founder of Clauseph BioFuels
I made a lot of connections and built a robust network from attending the YES! in Kenya. I was very motivated to work harder, to be more visible and be more driven just from seeing a lot of young people who were platformed as speakers and the incredible achievements they already had. Since April 2023, we have reached 450 more customers, and been in 7 more communities, which is 4X more customers than we had prior to YES! I was and am still motivated to do more, have a wider reach and impact, and perform equal to or greater than the young people I encountered at the YES! 2023.
Global Cleantech Innovation Program
Aspiring to shape energy policy and drive sustainable change, I currently work for the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme, funded by GEF and implemented by UNIDO. I am driven by a profound vision: to illuminate Africa without compromising our environment. My goals include contributing to energy policy-making, ensuring clean, affordable, and reliable electricity for every African home. YES! has been a transformative catalyst in my journey. Surrounded by like-minded young individuals, I found the community I craved. This platform granted me invaluable insights into the energy sectors of diverse African countries.
Assistant IT Technician
Western Sees Company
I inspire to cultivate a multifaceted career at the intersection of technology and social impact. With a solid foundation in IT, data management, and design, I envisions contributing to innovative projects in system administration, web development, and graphic design. YES! empowers me to navigate the evolving energy sector, fill skill gaps, and build relationships with global innovators. It’s a pivotal resource in my pursuit of a dynamic career. Through the Beyond Privilege global network, I access industry insights, engage in workshops, explore job opportunities, and connect with a vibrant community of peers, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
Project and Export Finance – Energy and Infrastructure, Standard Bank Group
YES! helped me by introducing me to people in the energy space. In 2022, I went to the Africa Energy Forum, at a time where I was not working in the energy space, but was looking to transition. I eventually ended up in the Project Finance Team at the Standard Bank of South Africa, where I predominantly work in the funding of wind and solar transactions. YES! has also given me responsibilities, such as speaking at events and helping strengthen a relationship between YES! and Standard Bank. Moreover, Simon (YES! founder) has kept in touch and has been willing to assist me with various inputs on an ad-hoc basis.
Student
University of Zambia / University of Buea
My goal is to provide clean and reliable source of energy to Cameroonian citizens. I would like to be an independent Power Producer in my country, am work in the integration of renewable energy sources into the Electrical Grid. At YES!, I was amazed to see young people like me engaging in the energy sector, where many youth were engaged to develop start-ups. YES! was a stepping stone in my entrepreneurial career. After attending it, I took an entrepreneurship course at my University in Cameroon and an on online leadership course. In the nearest future, I would like to gain more experience in Power System domain. My goal is to work hard towards net zero carbon.
Founder / CEO
Reform Africa
My career goals are deeply rooted in environmental sustainability and community empowerment. I aspire to lead Reform Africa towards becoming a global force in combating plastic pollution, fostering sustainable practices, and creating economic opportunities in underserved communities. My vision extends beyond entrepreneurial success; it encompasses driving systemic change by influencing policies, engaging in global conversations on environmental issues, and inspiring a new generation of changemakers. YES! has been a transformative platform, connecting me with prolific business developers, advisors, and financiers. The interactive sessions on leadership skills, business development, and education-employment alignment have enriched my entrepreneurial journey.
CEO
Gilsun Technologies
The YES! summit provided me with networking opportunities with like-minded people in the renewable energy industry. I was able to accelerate my startup’s growth by gaining invaluable insights through it. In the end, YES! has helped drive Gilsun Technologies toward greater success in the renewable energy and environmental conservation, by helping us to grow and overcome the hurdles of entrepreneurship. My goal is to use Gilsun Technologies to encourage environmental conservation and renewable energy development. As a professional, I want to promote environmental stewardship and pioneer new renewable energies that help with sustainable energy solutions.
Researcher
Strathmore University
I am currently working on my PhD paper, focusing on the role of clean energy in reducing inequality in mechanized farming. I am also starting a business that uses green energy to fill the gap in energy access in Sub-Saharan Africa. I am planning by 2025 to have raised at least USD 10m to boost the business first in the greater east African region before moving to central Africa. YES! is a great platform, which has brought me to different players in the energy sector whom I have been interacting with and learning from. It has provided me with a platform where I can continue to reach out to different investors and energy developers easily. I am using the platform to share my businesses and getting very good reviews.
Entrepreneur / Founder
Maarketplaace
DPhil (PhD) International Relations & Rhodes Scholar,
University of Oxford
The YES! community has been immensely valuable to me, connecting me with other youth across the continent who are passionate about Africa’s development and its energy sector. Attending the YES! 2023 in Nairobi was an empowering experience, with fascinating panels and meaningful conversations. Additionally, I was a panelist at the Youth Energy Day 2023, which was an incredible event bringing together livestreams from four different locations around the continent. After my studies, I hope to return back to South Africa to serve in the civil service, ideally in the South African Presidency or the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Evaluation & Climate Change
National Youth Caucus
YES! has provided a valuable platform for collaboration and learning, enhancing my understanding of environmental issues. Engaging with like-minded individuals, I’ve gained insights into diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. YES! Has facilitated networking opportunities, enabling me to connect with experts, activists, and organizations dedicated to environmental sustainability. Overall, YES! has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community, amplifying my impact, and contributing to my ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. As the founder of Gen Africa Foundation, my aspiration is to create positive change in the lives of women and girls through initiatives and activities of the foundation. My goal is to continue building sustainable programs that empower and uplift communities, fostering long-term impact.
Senior Energy Economist
EirGrid Group
Business Development Trainee
Engie Energy Access
Attending the Youth Energy Summit (YES!) has been a transformative experience for me, shaping my perspective on energy-related issues and equipping me with valuable skills and knowledge. YES! provided a platform for engaging discussions, expert presentations, and interactive workshops that deepened my knowledge about renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and the importance of responsible consumption, youth participation, and collaboration. YES! has connected me with a diverse network of like-minded individuals who share a passion for addressing energy challenges. Through collaborative projects and networking opportunities, I have built lasting relationships with peers, mentors, and professionals in the energy sector. These connections have opened doors to valuable resources, mentorship, and potential career opportunities that I might not have encountered otherwise.
Director and Partner, Home & Away Consultants
YES! has provided a valuable platform for collaboration and learning, enhancing my understanding of environmental issues. Engaging with like-minded individuals, I’ve gained insights into diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. YES! Has facilitated networking opportunities, enabling me to connect with experts, activists, and organizations dedicated to environmental sustainability. Overall, YES! has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community, amplifying my impact, and contributing to my ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. As the founder of Gen Africa Foundation, my aspiration is to create positive change in the lives of women and girls through initiatives and activities of the foundation. My goal is to continue building sustainable programs that empower and uplift communities, fostering long-term impact.
Junior Associate
Clean Technology Hub
Founder and CEO, Green Energy Mission Africa
The YES! platform facilitates crucial collaborations with governments, private sectors, and communities, aiding in the implementation of inclusive policies tailored to region-specific challenges. It provides a network for advocating affordable, reliable, and accessible clean energy solutions, helping bridge energy gaps in underserved areas. Through the platform’s global partnerships, I gain access to valuable connections for bringing cutting-edge renewable technologies to Africa. Additionally, it enhances my advocacy, policy influence, and cross-border collaborations, ensuring transparency in measuring impact. YES! fosters mentorship and educational campaigns that inspire the next generation. My career goal is to lead transformative initiatives for sustainable energy access and an equitable transition in Africa. I aspire to bridge energy gaps in underserved areas, by establishing global partnerships and empowering local communities through capacity-building, entrepreneurship, and employment.
Graduate, Kampala International University
YES! 23 allowed me to meet in person most of the icons in the clean energy sector and potential investors. It als o allowed me to learnt practical skills from energy entrepreneurs who have done much in the clean energy sector as a means of fighting the climate crisis. The crash course on how to establish a successful energy business also supercharged my skills that have been used to sharpen my energy initiative. Coming from improvised communities of the Karamoja sub-region north eastern Uganda that barely eat one meal a day, events like this are a luxury to which most of us cannot afford self-sponsorship. Through this opportunity, I was inspired to learn how we could improve the deployment of clean energy technologies in the remote areas of Karamoja, while expanding my network with other stakeholders in the energy field.
Industrial Engineer
Exxaro Resources
Technology Strategy and Sustainability Consultant
The YES! conference offers a platform that brings together a diverse group of professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and educators who are all passionate about energy issues in Africa. I believe that YES! is a unique opportunity for me to enhance my skills, expand my network, and gain valuable insights from fellow African energy leaders. Furthermore, the YES! conference offers valuable opportunities for professional development, including sessions on business readiness, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills. As an early career professional in the energy sector, I am passionate about contributing to the growth and development of Africa’s energy industry. I have a proven track record of success, including winning the “City Winner” award during the 2020 Multi-City Challenge Africa, hosted by the United Nations Development Programme and the University of New York in collaboration with African cities, for my waste-to-energy model. This model is currently being implemented in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
Researcher, Cape Coast Technical University
YES! introduced me to industry players within the global energy ecosystem. I am learning so much about the problems and solutions in energy to solve practical energy problems with research-led initiatives and technologies. It also gave me the privilege to network with youth across Africa whose work cuts across the entire value chain from energy production to consumption. I have devoted significant time to long-term advocacy campaigns as part of my desire to find solutions to real-world problems, make the world a better place for all, and direct investors’ attention to communities where their investments and infrastructure in clean cooking will be most effective. As a grassroots advocate, I inspire end users to switch to cleaner options, which has a significant impact on raising consumer demand for cleaner alternatives and developing a long-term market for manufacturers. As a youth in research and advocacy, my expertise aligns well with the recent theme of the Youth Energy Summit. I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute knowledge and learn from other seasoned and passionate youth working within the same ecosystem.
Head of Energy Demand Studies Unit at the Planning Department, National Office of Electricity and Water
Engineer, Benin Electricity Distribution Company
YES! has been instrumental in my career development as an electrical engineer. Through YES!, I gained valuable hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to real-world engineering challenges. The networking opportunities provided by YES! allowed me to connect with industry professionals and fellow aspiring engineers, expanding my professional network and opening doors to exciting career opportunities. Overall, YES! has been a catalyst for my growth and success in the field of electrical engineering. I aspire to lead projects that integrate cutting-edge technology, enhance energy efficiency, and address global challenges such as climate change. Additionally, I aim to continually expand my knowledge and skills through ongoing learning and professional development, ultimately making meaningful contributions to society through my work in the field of electrical engineering.
University of Nairobi & Collaborative Approach Founder
Collaborating with Energynet from the United Kingdom, I contributed to the successful organization of the Youth Energy Summit alongside the Africa Energy Forum. Mobilizing 1500 participants with over 400 young people turning up during the summit and receiving recognition from the Kenyan President as a founding member of the YES! Army was a significant achievement. This engagement in the long term gave me a unique space to network virtually and strong visibility which ended up getting the best recognition by the British High Commission in Nairobi to meet with King Charles 111 and also selected as semi-finalist by Mandela Washington Fellowship which is a program under the United States Government. I am deeply committed to forging connections with fellow changemakers, fostering dialogue, and nurturing impactful networks. This passion for collaboration has been instrumental in generating unique solutions and fostering collaborative approaches to complex challenges.
CEO & Founder, Climate Technology Solutions
Founder, Mpepu Energy
Through YES!, I had the opportunity to meet brilliant young energy professionals like Chizoba Nzeakor and others from whom I am continuously learning, and sharing ideas and expertise. I also had the opportunity to gain continental insight into Africa’s leading companies in the energy sector and emerging technologies like electric mobility. YES! informed me about the job opportunities and funding available for young professionals. I am the founder and CEO of Mpepu Energy, a Malawi-based start-up pioneering wind energy in the country. With us having developed the Helix wind turbine, we aim to deliver adequate electricity to households through wind energy. I aspire to become a leading energy professional and entrepreneur with the capacity to contribute to energy policymaking, improve access to energy in deserving communities, and drive innovation in clean energy technology across developing countries.
Project Coordinator At Project Vita, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane
YES! provided me with a unique platform to connect with people in the energy sector. Through these connections, I learned about how students and early career professionals from other countries tackle the challenges of entering the energy field. I also gained insight into the innovative solutions young entrepreneurs are bringing to the sector. These experiences motivated me to adopt similar strategies to initiatives I’m working on in my country. Additionally, the industry experts and companies I’ve met have generously shared tips for thriving in the sector and recommended various opportunities and resources available, enriching my understanding and expanding my network. The Beyond Privilege platform provided me with connections with industry experts and companies in the energy sector.
Cooperation & International Development, MASEN
CEO, National Youth Caucus Kenya
YES! has helped me connect with like-minded youth across the country and advance the development agenda. YES! has given me and other youth full sponsorships to attend the Powering Africa Summit in Washington, DC, another great and exciting opportunity for future collaborations.I plan to increase the quality and quantity of jobs for the youth across Africa through advocacy. With 213 jobs currently, we aim to create one million jobs for young people by 2045. I am very grateful for the overwhelming guidance and support YES! has given and continues to give.
Electrical Engineer, Ethiopian Electric Utility
I am a highly motivated Electrical Engineer in Ethiopia. I have had the privilege to participate in various different tasks and projects. YES! will help me connect with other companies within the energy sector. I believe the education and knowledge I will learn from other professionals in the field will be invaluable.
Partner, Legal/Energy Practice
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Attending the conference was a game-changer! I gained insights on effective team management and communication. Networking with seasoned leaders provided me with mentorship opportunities and fresh perspectives towards my career goal. The workshops on decision-making and problem-solving sharpened my entrepreneurial skills and Implementing the strategies learned has improved my ability to motivate and inspire my community back here in Ghana. My career Goal is to become a top Serial Entrepreneur and build Empires here in Ghana which will support and promote our social, and economic development.
Student ,International University of Applied Sciences
YES! has given me the confidence to charge forward my career into the energy and transition industry. It has given me connections, opportunities and promising business ideas. I have gained some successful exposure and network from organisations within the industry, thanks to YES! My career ambition is to become a practising Energy Manager or consultant. Specifically in the vibrant AEE community and active national energy policies. That will allow me to contribute to research in energy efficiency, carbon capture and renewables. With the YES! platform, I hope to attend more forums and interactions with both youths and experienced professionals.
Founder and CEO, Centre for Green Development
Director Admin, Youthspire enterprise
YES! has helped me develop and build my leadership management. I have developed many current projects in Namibia including YES! Namibia Summit. As the founder, across Namibia , we aim to empower and bring youth together to take up roles in the energy sector. I am a climate advocate and energy renewable advocate. My aim is to help youth take action in climate change and help to minimise carbon emissions. We hope to continue our goal of bringing youth into important energy discussions and shortening the gender gap in the energy sector. We are driven to expand the job market within the energy sector in Africa, especially in renewable energy.
Student, University of Zimbabwe
YES! was my first international conference, and I was happy it threw me into the deep end of the Renewables space. Attending YES! It has made me realise how vast the industry is and how many different angles there are to enter from. It really opened my eyes. Overall, I’m more than happy about the friendships, experiences and knowledge I gained, and hope to build on it further. I am exploring interests in the Renewable Energy space from both a technical perspective (as I studied engineering), but also more holistically, i.e. understanding the entire value chain, how it’s financed, what policies the government can employ to encourage participation from IPPs, attract FDI, and boost the industry in general. I’m still figuring it out but I’m very excited.
Founder ,Johannes Technology Solutions
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