By Fatimah Alli
The TIME Magazine has listed the Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy for All and Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General, Damilola Ogunbiyi, among its TIME100 Climate list of influential leaders at the vanguard of climate action.
The magazine’s latest list acknowledges the 100 most innovative global figures working to enhance climate-conscious business solutions.
TIME Magazine, in a statement recognised Ogunbiyi as an outstanding advocate for sustainable energy dedicated to a fair and inclusive energy transition, especially for the Global South.
The magazine particularly emphasized Ogunbiyi’s working as CEO of SEforALL to promote climate action that focuses on decarbonisation and advocates for the needs of developing regions.
Chair of SEforALL’s Governance Board, Francesco Starace, commended Ogunbiyi’s efforts by pointing out that, “Sustainable energy is a key solution if we are to tackle the climate crisis and usher in a greener, brighter future, noting that, “Damilola has been an impactful leader, demonstrating that change can happen in record time if there is dedication and focus. As a Governance Board, we congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.”
The SEforALL CEO acknowledged the TIME100 honour, by stating that the recognition was a reflection of the commitment of her team and supporters globally.
“This is not just a recognition of my work and my amazing colleagues at SEforALL, but of the entire team of people that have supported the vision of accelerating action on climate change and energy poverty – focused on not leaving anyone behind,” Ogunbiyi said.
This is not the first time Ogunbiyi will be recognized by other interests, in September 2024, the SEforAll CEO received the UAE’s First Class Order of Zayed II for her contributions to COP28, and she was also awarded the Global Female Leadership Impact Award.
Also, in March 2024, Reuters recognised her as a pioneer among women in climate and energy.
Similarly, she received the Energy Institute President’s Award last year.
SEforALL hailed Ogunbiyi noting that since her appointment in 2020, the agency has expanded its support to over 90 countries and helped secure more than $1.3tn in energy financing.
SEforALL has grown as a force working to ensure that all communities, particularly those in emerging economies, benefit from a sustainable and equitable energy transition, it added.
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