Stanley Chidubem Anigbogu from Nigeria has been named the 2025 Commonwealth Young Person of the Year, earning global recognition for his groundbreaking work in clean energy innovation. The prestigious Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work took place in London yesterday, bringing together ministers, senior officials, and youth leaders to honor outstanding young individuals driving positive change across the Commonwealth.
Transforming Waste into Clean Energy
Anigbogu, the founder and CEO of LightEd, was recognized for his remarkable initiative that converts waste into solar-powered solutions, providing clean energy to over 10,000 refugees across Africa. His passion for sustainable energy solutions stems from his firsthand experience with energy poverty as a child. Determined to make a difference, he launched LightEd in Nigeria during the COVID-19 pandemic, assembling a team of young innovators to address climate challenges while empowering communities.
Since its inception, LightEd has trained 6,000 students and recycled over 20,000 kilograms of waste. The organization continues to expand its impact, promoting sustainability, climate resilience, and access to renewable energy in underserved regions.
A Double Victory for Africa’s Youth
Originally from Anambra State, Nigeria, Anigbogu received the award from Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland at a ceremony held at Marlborough House, London. He also clinched the top regional award for Africa, bringing his total prize winnings to £5,000.
Expressing his gratitude, Anigbogu said: “It is an honour to receive this recognition alongside an inspiring group of 20 young changemakers who are dedicated to launching innovative solutions that drive transformative change worldwide. With the support of the Commonwealth and its incredible network of partners, I look forward to continuing this journey.”
Commonwealth Youth Awards: Empowering the Next Generation
The Commonwealth Youth Awards celebrate the efforts of young changemakers aged 15–29, scaling local innovations to achieve a global impact. These awards promote the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Secretary-General Patricia Scotland praised Anigbogu’s ingenuity, stating: “Stanley’s work showcases the power of young minds in tackling global challenges. His ability to turn waste into sustainable energy solutions is not only commendable but also essential in our fight against climate change and energy inequality.”
Driving Sustainable Development through Innovation
LightEd’s approach aligns with global efforts to address climate change, waste management, and energy accessibility. The organization’s impact extends beyond just providing electricity—it is fostering a culture of innovation, environmental responsibility, and youth empowerment.
As Anigbogu continues to expand LightEd’s reach, he aims to partner with governments, corporations, and non-profits to further scale his solution. His success underscores the importance of investing in young innovators to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
