Summer Okibe: Leading Change In Climate Justice, Education, And Global Advocacy
USA News May 23, 2025
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Summer Okibe is a recognized Climate and Energy Policy Specialist, renowned for her advocacy in the areas of climate justice, energy access, and education. With more than eight years of experience, she holds leadership roles within influential global organizations, contributing significantly to climate policy and youth empowerment. As the Governance & Policy Coordinator for the YOUNGO Energy Working Group at the United Nations on Climate Change, Summer plays a pivotal role in shaping policies that promote intergenerational equity and youth capacity building within the climate and energy sectors.She has represented youth voices on international stages, including as the UNFCCC YOUNGO Energy Working Group Delegate at the 2025 UN ECOSOC Youth Forum, the International Youth Conference, and the World Bank Group Youth Summit. She was nominated for major events like the UN SB62 and the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), where she intends to share her insights on energy access, climate policy reforms, and gender equity. Furthermore, her work extends beyond policy discussions; Summer has mentored over 2,000 young Africans and trained prospective climate leaders on researching and writing climate policy through the EcoChampion's Climate Education Fellowship.At 28, Summer has already achieved an exceptional academic career, having completed four degrees: an LL.B., B.L., LL.M., and MBA. She is currently in her third year of a PhD in Law at the University of Victoria, Canada, where her research focuses on climate, environmental, and Indigenous issues. Over the course of her educational journey, she has secured more than $400,000 in scholarships and has mentored thousands of young Africans in securing fully funded educational opportunities. Through her guidance, numerous youth have gained access to scholarships and academic programs that allow them to pursue their dreams on the global stage.A passionate advocate for climate justice, Summer founded the 5-Minute Climergy Feud, a dynamic, youth-led policy show that simplifies complex climate topics through debate and collaboration. The show’s unique format helps bridge the gap between global policy discussions and practical advocacy. She is also the founder of To Support Young Kids Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing scholarships and grants to underserved children and youth in Nigeria. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded scholarships to over 5,000 students and provided essential grants to widows.What sets Summer apart from others in her field is her commitment to not just creating policy but also making an immediate impact on the ground. Her work combines the rigor of academic knowledge with hands-on, grassroots action. Her philosophy is rooted in the belief that no one is too small to make a difference, and no dream is too big to chase. Through her various initiatives, she strives to create lasting legacies that empower communities and create pathways for future generations to excel in climate and energy-related fields.Summer has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Flight 302 Legacy Award (2025), the JCI Top 100 Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria (2022), the Law Foundation of BC Fellowship (2023), and the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (2022). She has also earned the distinction of being named Best Associate at Greenfield Chambers (2020) and Most Reputable Graduating Female Student (2017), among other awards. These accolades are a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence in both her professional and academic endeavors.Her work in advocating for climate justice is more than just a career; it is personal. In her own words, “For me, climate justice isn’t just policy; it’s personal. It’s my story. It’s my people. It’s the future of the school I’m building with my own hands.” She believes that every stage she speaks on, whether at the UN or in classrooms, is an opportunity to bring her community with her. "Every time I speak at the UN or teach a policy class, I carry my entire village with me. I am proof that you can start from anywhere and still touch everywhere."Summer’s leadership in the climate space is not only about global advocacy but also about creating opportunities for others to follow. As she continues to shape the future of climate and energy policy, her focus remains on ensuring that youth, especially those from marginalized communities, are equipped with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to become change-makers in their own right. Through her work, she is fostering a new generation of leaders who are committed to climate justice, equity, and sustainable development.Those who follow her journey are reminded that change does not always require monumental movements or monumental figures. As Summer eloquently states, “I don’t just want a seat at the table; I want to build new tables, under the open sky, where children learn, dream, and grow.” Summer Okibe’s dedication to these causes exemplifies the power of individuals to lead change and leave a lasting impact on their communities and the world.To learn more about Summer Okibe and her work, visit herLinkedIn,Instagram,YouTube,Twitter, or herwebsite. She can also be reached via email at contact@thesummeryouknow.com.
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