No light for homework, caring for your family, or even stepping outside safely unless you burn a polluting, dangerous, and expensive kerosene lamp. This is the daily reality for almost 600 million people in Africa. At Let There Be Light International, we work alongside community-based partners to fight energy poverty and climate change through distributing solar lights and solar-electrifying frontline off-grid health clinics. These lights don’t just brighten homes; they brighten futures, improve health, and save lives.
What continues to inspire me most is the power of connection to build compassion and fuel action, particularly in the form of mentorship. When I was a student at Tufts University, I was mentored by Sarah Baird, the Founder and Executive Director of Let There Be Light International. Her work showed me that sustainable change requires both hands-on community work and bold advocacy. Her guidance gave me the courage to turn my passion into action, and in my own career, I am now committed to mentoring young people who are looking to turn their passion into impact.
Through my mentorship, I am hoping to address the climate cynicism that convinces so many people, especially young people, that it's too late or that their actions don’t matter. Through mentorship, I strive to engage the next generation in work that is grounded in hope and compassion and that gives them the confidence and tools to build the just, safe, and healthy world they'd like for us all to live in.
I’ve watched teenagers’ eyes light up when they realize their voice matters. I’ve seen students shift from despair to action. These moments remind me that climate solutions are not only about technology or policy, but about people daring to believe in a more empathetic future. Working with the next generation keeps me grounded, inspired, and certain that together, we can brighten lives--abroad and at home--and build a future rooted in empathy.
What continues to inspire me most is the power of connection to build compassion and fuel action, particularly in the form of mentorship. When I was a student at Tufts University, I was mentored by Sarah Baird, the Founder and Executive Director of Let There Be Light International. Her work showed me that sustainable change requires both hands-on community work and bold advocacy. Her guidance gave me the courage to turn my passion into action, and in my own career, I am now committed to mentoring young people who are looking to turn their passion into impact.
Through my mentorship, I am hoping to address the climate cynicism that convinces so many people, especially young people, that it's too late or that their actions don’t matter. Through mentorship, I strive to engage the next generation in work that is grounded in hope and compassion and that gives them the confidence and tools to build the just, safe, and healthy world they'd like for us all to live in.
I’ve watched teenagers’ eyes light up when they realize their voice matters. I’ve seen students shift from despair to action. These moments remind me that climate solutions are not only about technology or policy, but about people daring to believe in a more empathetic future. Working with the next generation keeps me grounded, inspired, and certain that together, we can brighten lives--abroad and at home--and build a future rooted in empathy.