Nigerian innovator Stanley Anigbogu has been named the 2025 Commonwealth Young Person of the Year at the prestigious Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work held in London.
Anigbogu, the founder and CEO of LightEd, was recognized for his groundbreaking work in transforming waste into solar-powered innovations, providing clean energy to over 10,000 refugees across Africa.
His initiative, driven by personal experiences with energy poverty, has led to the training of 6,000 students and the recycling of over 20,000 kilograms of waste, contributing to climate resilience and sustainability.
A Visionary for Clean Energy and Sustainability
Anigbogu, originally from Anambra State, Nigeria, received the award from the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, at a vibrant ceremony at Marlborough House. The event was attended by government ministers, senior officials, and youth leaders from across the Commonwealth.
Praising Anigbogu’s efforts, Scotland commended him for addressing multiple global challenges, saying:
“Not only are you bringing hope and light to vulnerable communities and refugees who face many hardships, but you are also ridding communities of harmful waste and pollution. This is a testament to the creativity of the Commonwealth’s youth.”
She also highlighted how his initiative is training young people in renewable energy skills, contributing to the broader global push for a sustainable energy transition.
Double Victory for Anigbogu
Alongside being named the overall Commonwealth Young Person of the Year, Anigbogu also clinched the top regional award for Africa, earning a total prize of £5,000.
Expressing his gratitude, Anigbogu said:
“It is an incredible honour to receive this recognition alongside an inspiring group of 20 young changemakers, all dedicated to launching innovative solutions that drive transformative change for millions of young people around the world.”
Recognizing Young Changemakers
The Commonwealth Youth Awards empower changemakers aged 15–29, scaling local innovations to global impact through initiatives in education, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and inclusivity.
Four other regional winners also received £3,000 each for their outstanding contributions:
- Murad Ansary (Asia)
- Nicholas Kee (Caribbean)
- Zubair Junjunia (Europe & Canada)
- Bethalyn Kelly (Pacific)
Additionally, the Khalili Foundation, a long-time partner of the Commonwealth, presented the PEACE Awards to five young leaders for their work in promoting peace and equity. Each winner received £2,000.
The Commonwealth Foundation also supported the awards, contributing £30,000 towards the event.
From over 800 global submissions, 20 finalists were selected, each receiving a trophy, certificate, and £1,000 to further their impactful work.
A Legacy in the Making
Deputy Director General of the Commonwealth Foundation, Shem Ochola, praised Anigbogu’s achievement, stating:
“His innovation, brilliance, and passion stand as a testament to the transformative power of youth leadership. Today, we celebrate not just an achievement, but a legacy in the making.”
With this recognition, Anigbogu’s work in clean energy and youth empowerment continues to inspire millions, reinforcing the role of young leaders in shaping a sustainable future.