Naphtali Akudung
Naphtali Akudung is a Nigerian social entrepreneur and climate activist with a background in physics, renowned for his innovative work at the nexus of climate change, business, and social development.
In 2020, he founded Climrenew—a social enterprise that raises climate change awareness and offers consultancy in renewable energy, plastic waste management, and sustainable agriculture. Under his leadership, Climrenew has planted over 2,000 trees and collected approximately 25,000 PET bottles, significantly contributing to environmental conservation.
Naphtali further advances climate action as a Planeteer Ambassador for the
Captain Planet Foundation, where he mentors young changemakers, and as Manager of the Planeteer’s Alliance Program. As an Innovator in Residence at Crowdsolve, he collaborates with innovation teams to empower climate tech entrepreneurs. His commitment to global advocacy is also reflected in his service on the UN Civil Society Youth Representatives Steering Committee.
A Bachelor of Science in Physics graduate from the University of Jos and an alumnus of the Watson Institute, Naphtali has earned prestigious scholarships for postgraduate studies in Technology Entrepreneurship and Design at the Nigerian University of Technology and Management, alongside fellowships with institutions such as the FATE Foundation, NSP Fellowship, YALI Fellowship, and Sathi Fellowship.
In November 2024, he represented the I.B. Taylor-Kamara Foundation at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he showcased his expertise in climate resilience and renewable energy. Through science, entrepreneurship, and dedicated advocacy, Naphtali Akudung continues to drive meaningful change, positioning him as a key leader in Africa’s climate movement and a global ambassador for sustainable development.
Zainab Kamara
Zainab Kamara is a passionate medical student at Njala University Bo Campus, pursuing her studies at the Paramedical School of Medical Science and the College of Medicine. As an advocate for gender-responsive violence prevention, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) awareness, and rural education empowerment, she is dedicated to driving meaningful social change and improving community health.
Zainab is the founder of the Advocacy for Rural Educational Empowerment Network, where she works to create opportunities and uplift underrepresented rural communities through education and awareness. She also serves as a team leader for Young Life Sierra Leone in Port Loko, where she mentors and supports the next generation of leaders.
Her dedication to youth advocacy and gender equality has earned her a place as an active member of the Global Youth Consortium Against FGM for the West and Central Africa region, where she collaborates with other passionate youth to combat FGM and promote gender equality. Additionally, as an ambassador at the University of the People (UoPeople), she represents educational access and advocates for global learning opportunities.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to youth empowerment and advocacy, Zainab has been awarded the prestigious IBTK Foundation’s Young Emerging Leaders Scholarship. She has also been appointed as a member of the IBTK Africa
Civil Society Youth Advisory Council (ACSYAC), where she will contribute her expertise and leadership to drive impactful, youth-centered initiatives.
Zainab's unwavering commitment to social change, health advocacy, and youth empowerment continues to make a significant impact both locally and internationally. Her leadership and passion are a testament to the power of young changemakers shaping a better future.