Agenda Key
Generation Theatre
Insightful sessions from the sector on what the current trends are in energy generation and how can youth prepare for jobs in the sector
Tomorrow’s World Theatre
How can the youth prepare today to grab tomorrow’s opportunities
Learning & Development
Credible organisations will share their expertise through interactive training courses with real life examples to help build the bridge between academia and industry.
Recruiters Spotlight
A range of companies/organisations will present their graduate recruitment and internship programmes and give insights into the role of their organisation in the energy development universe, providing insights into the vast range of jobs available in the sector.
Entrepreneurs Arena
Entrepreneurs are invited to pitch their business ideas to industry experts who will offer guidance, and some will also offer funding!
Ask the Experts
Drop-in Clinic - Delegates can join 20-minute small group meetings with leading experts in the sector from aef, who will be able to guide you on everything from career advice to what their day to job looks like.
Connect and Chill Cinema – Now showing The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
Be inspired by the true story of William Kamkwamba's incredible journey of innovation, to power the village water pump and save the village crop
YES! & aef football tournament – delegates will be invited to participate
Day One: Wednesday 18 June 2025
07:30-08:30
09:30 – 10:00 YES! Opening Remarks: Why the YES! Generation Should Be Excited About the Energy Sector!
Speaker:
• Why is 43% of Africa not having access to electricity an exciting opportunity for the youth!
• Highlighting the vast range of jobs in the energy sector.
• Where are the job/entrepreneurship opportunities and how can you prepare?
10:00 – 10:30 Walk with Me - Success Stories from YES! Alumni. Hear directly from the youth who are building incredible career opportunities through YES!
Moderator:
Speakers:
• Thuso Xola Kuali, MBA Student, IESE, South Africa: After presenting at the opening of YES! 2022, Thuso was approached by three companies, kickstarting his career in the energy sector.
• Noella Molefe, Senior Specialist- Climate Change & Air Quality, Exxaro Resources, South Africa: Through the global exposure and networking opportunities at YES!, Noella was headhunted to join a major mining company to drive the reduction of emissions through renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.
• Emmanuel Terwase, Founder & CEO, Boost Power, Nigeria: Inspired by YES!, Emmanuel expanded Boost Power’s pilot microgrid from powering 7 shops to 45 businesses & is now working toward supporting over 200 shops.
Madalitso Chimpeni, Co-Founder, Mpepu Energy, Malawi, presented by his co-founder, Steven Malenia: Through networking at YES!, Mpepu Energy secured a $25k grant to launch Malawi’s first wind microgrid – set to power 120 homes, 30 businesses & improve the lives of over 1,600 people!
• Matsepiso Majoro, Co-Founder/MD, Mahlaseli Energy, Lesotho: After YES!, Matsepiso adopted a pay-as-you-go model, opened two new branches, & plans to hire 20+ people & partner with NGOs to deliver solar solutions in schools.
• Jane Nakasamu, Co-Founder, Greenbelt Energy, Zambia: Through YES!, Jane secured a consultancy role & now supports the development of three renewable energy projects in Zambia.
• Kamilu Sani, Drilling Fluid Engineer, Hamilton Technologies, Nigeria: After YES!, Kamilu was empowered to lead a project that electrified a remote village, led energy seminars & secured a position with a major electricity distribution company.
• Imo-Obong Utoh, Minigrids Business Development Officer, ENGIE Energy Access (Africa), Nigeria: After YES!, Imo was inspired to join a team that developed awardwinning mini-grids to 15 rural Nigerian communities – bringing electricity to over 5000 people.
• Rebecca Agadumo, Assistant Project Manager, GCIP-Nigeria, Co-creation HUB, Nigeria: YES! inspired Rebecca to drive greater female representation in the Global Clean Tech Innovation Program, successfully increasing women's participation from 24% to 46%.
• Haruna Inuwa, Energy Systems Modelling & Future Fuels Researcher, University of Oxford: Attending YES! broadened his understanding of the energy landscape and enabled him to connect with industry professionals connections that ultimately played a role in securing his admission to the University of Oxford.
12:30-13:30
Energy Transition: What Does Africa Want?
• What is stopping Africa from getting what it needs?
• What does energy transition truly mean for Africa?
• How realistic is the journey to a green economy for the continent?
• What jobs will energy transition create?
Moderator: Ammaara Ebrahim, Associate: Energy Finance, Nedbank CIB
Speakers: H.E. Honourable Olivier Jean-Baptiste, Minister of Energy & Hydrocarbons, Madagascar
Nonjabulo Sokhela, CEO, Nepoworx
Stephen McNeill, Co-founder and partner, Nopal
Haruna Inuwa, Energy Systems
Modelling & Future Fuels
Researcher, University of Oxford
Celiwe Mabaso, Head of Sustainability, NOA
Tech-Driven Transformation: AI & Technological Innovation in the Energy Sector
• How will digital transformation and AI shape the future of energy?
Moderator: Daniel Kammen, Professor of Energy, University of California, Berkeley
Speakers: Damilola Hamid Balogun, Co-Founder/CEO, Youth Sustainable Development Network (YSDN)
Michelle Govender, Founder, Octarity
Thuthukani Nduduzo Biyela, Managing Director Siphulathuthu Engineering, CIGRE D2 Strategic Advisory Group (SAG)
Joseph Lumbahe, AI Regional Ambassador, South African AI Association
Suad Abdel Rahman, Co-Founder, Sanasana Sustainability
Jabu Mtsweni, Head of Cyber & Information Research Centre, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South Africa
Hosted by: GOGLA
Trainers: Brenda Marbaniang, Policy Manager, Policy and Regional Strategy, GOGLA Gloria Kuyoh, Project Manager for Productive Uses of Renewable Energy (PURE), GOGLA
Planning and Future Proofing: Essential Leadership Skills
Hosted by: SIY Global
Trainer:
Margo Buchanan, SIY Certified Teacher, SIY Global
Session Hosted By: Infinity Power
Presented by: Mohamed Ismail Mansour
Co-Founder & Chairman, Infinity Power
Networking Lunch
Siemens Energy
Speaker: Lerato Mashiloane, Senior Talent Acquisition
Judges: 11:00-11:40
Partner Africa, Siemens Energy 11:00 – 11:25 Pele Energy Group
11:45-12:25
Bowmans
Speaker: Shalin
Ledwaba, Head of Talent
Speaker: Gqi Raoleka, CEO, Pele Energy Group
Afrika
Acquisition, Bowmans 11:30 – 11:55 Newzroom
Speaker: Thabile Ngwato, CEO & Co-Founder, Newzroom Afrika 12:00 – 12:25
15:00-15:30
Solar – Africa’s Special Power
• Solar- where are the mega solar projects and how are they changing the energy landscape?
• How crucial will solar be in developing Africa’s energy supply
Moderator:
Speakers:
H.E. Honourable July Moyo, Minister of Energy & Power Development, Zimbabwe
Geoffrey Ronoh, CTO, OFGEN Africa
Sampson Mamphweli, Head, Energy Secretariat, South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), South Africa
Kingsley Okenyi, Director, SunBridge Power
Wendy Green, Country Head of South Africa, Daystar Power Group
Caroline Makenzi, Principal Program Coordinator – Energy and Climate, AfDB
Engineers of the Future
• How are engineering roles changing with technological changes?
Moderator: Sandra Cherotich
Siwa, Executive Director, Energy Nova
Speakers: Omaira Jajbhay, Electrical Engineer, ZUTARI
Agbor Mbi Sobeh, Business Development Executive, EnergyNet
Pitso Sekhoto, Middle Manager, National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) & Eskom
Adhila Mayet, Head of Project Development, Pele Green Energy*
Micheala De Klerk, Mechanical (Rotating Equipment) & Welding Engineer, Siemens Energy
Thulani Ncube, Head of Energy & Service Delivery, Africa Data Centres
Youth Shaping Africa's Critical Minerals Future: Compliance, Investment and Innovation Across The Value Chain
Hosted by: African Energy & Economic Youth Council
Project Finance 101: Structuring and Financing UtilityScale Power Projects
Shortlisted Entrepreneurs Presenting: Off Grid and Micro-Solutions
Hosted by:
Hosted by: Power Futures Lab, University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business
Trainer:
Trainer: Wikus Kruger, Director, Power Futures Lab –University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business
Entrepreneurs:
Judging Panel: 13:30 – 14:10 Eskom
Speakers: Representative, Eskom* 13:30 – 13:55 Nedbank
Speaker: Anél Bosman, Group Managing Executive, Nedbank CIB 14:15-14:55 DBSA
Speakers: 14:00 – 14:25
Speaker: Thabo Molekoa, Chairman and Managing Director of Southern and Eastern Africa Siemens Energy 14:30 – 14:55
Speakers: Dzunani Makgopa, Head of Finance and Corporate Services; Acting Head, Economic Development, IPP Office, South Africa Crescent
Mushwana, Head of Technical, IPPO, South Africa
Networking Coffee
Energy Transmission – From Generation to Access
• Without transmission, energy generation is useless. How do transmission projects work?
• What are the biggest challenges in building transmission projects and what could be potential solutions?
• What are the careers available in transmission?
Moderator:
Speakers:
Mohamed Rali Badissy, Professor & PPA Watch Co-Director, Penn State Dickinson Law & The Energy for Growth Hub
Zvikomborero Garahwa, Head of Engineering, Matla Energy
Mark Swilling, Professor, Commissioner, National Planning Commission, Stellenbosch University
Chris Flavin, Interim CEO, Gridworks
Ahmed Mulla, Deputy CEO, Infinity Power
Industrial Energy-Intensive
Users: How is Energy Used in Africa?
• Data Centres
• Mining space
• Power generation for C&I
• AI
Moderator: Amyn Mussa, Partner, Anjarwalla & Khanna LLP
Speakers:
Heath Andersen, Data Centre Consultant, DCDesign.Africa
Bryce Allan, Head of Sustainability, Teraco
Marius Harmse, Country Manager of South Africa, Tecloman
Fakazile Thusi, Project Developer, Voltalia
Richard Doyle, Managing Director, JUWI
Prince Abudu, Head of technology for Artificial Intelligence, Cassava Technologies
Session Hosted By:
United Kingdom, Department of Business and Trade (DBT)
Design Thinking: From Ideation to Business
Development
Trainers:
Hosted by: Zambia Research & Development Centre
Shortlisted Entrepreneurs Presenting:
Community projects Focusing on Reducing Socio-Economic Gaps. Hosted by: Pele Energy Group
15:30-16:10
Speakers:
15:30-15:55
Grid Africa
Speaker: Norman Moyo, CEO, Grid Africa
16:15-16:55
Speakers:
Trainers: Chisala Bwalya, Director of Research & Development
Entrepreneurs:
Judging Panel:
Jolene Shaw, General Manager, Knowledge Pele
Bongani Makhubo, Senior Strategy and Impact Manager, Knowledge Pele
Phathutshedzo Mushanganyisi, Programmes
Implementation Lead, Knowledge Pele
16:00-16:25
Genesis Energy
Speaker: Akinwole II Omoboriowo, Chairman & CEO, Genesis Energy
16:30-16:55
Speaker:
Day Two: Thursday 19 June 2025
07:30-09:00
10:30: 11:00
Gas and Coal as Enablers of Energy Transition
• How crucial are fossil fuels to Africa’s current energy needs?
• Is coal, oil, & gas necessary as a baseload fuel for the energy transition?
• What gas projects are happening now?
Moderator: Kweku Awotwi, CoFounder & Non-Executive Director, Cenpower Generation Company
Speakers: H.E. Honourable Biodun
Ogunleye, Commissioner for Energy & Mineral Resources, Lagos State Government, Nigeria
Raymond Takuba, MBA Candidate
Project Developer, University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business
Bertha Tobias, Rhodes Scholar, MSc Student (Environment and Enterprise), Oxford University
Nomfundo Maseti, Full-Time Regulator Member responsible for Piped Gas & Electricity Regulation, National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), South Africa
Valentino Chigwedere, CEO, AEEYC
Session Hosted by: IPPO South Africa
From Blueprint to Megawatts, Critical Skills Behind Tomorrow’s Power!
Scene Setting:
Dzunani Makgopa, Head of Finance and Corporate Services; Acting Head, Economic Development, IPP Office, South Africa
A seat at the Table, A place in the Agenda, A builder of Tables: Measuring Career Growth and Building Meaningful Impact
Hosted by: Color Your Space
Session Hosted By: Chairing Growth
Moderator: Bernard Magoro*
Speakers: Dzunani Makgopa, Head of Finance and Corporate Services; Acting Head, Economic Development, IPP Office, South Africa
Trainer: Daniel Aryee, Policy Advocacy Coordinator, African Union Commission, Ethiopia Michael Opeyemi Ige, Youth Programme Advisor, United Nations World Food Programme
Trainer: Mogomotsi Mokwena, Founder, Chairing Growth Jeannie Myeni, Partner, Chairing Growth
From Garage to Grid: Lessons from a FirstMover in Africa’s Energy Transformation
Speakers:
Obakeng Moloabi, Head of Business Development, Pele Energy Group
Thuso Xola Kuali, MBA Student, IESE
09:00 - 09:40 Pele Energy Group
Speakers: Melissa Wilkinson, CPO, Pele Energy Group
09:45-10:25 Nedbank CIB
Speakers: Priya Surendra, Executive Head: Human Resources, Nedbank CIB
09:00 - 09:25 Seriti Green
Speaker: Layton Nenzinane, CFO, Seriti Green
09:30 - 09:55 Globeleq
Speaker: Danna Mhango, Business Development Manager, Globeleq
10:00 – 10:30 Bowmans
Speaker: Alessandra Pardini, Partner, Bowmans
Networking Coffee
11:00-12:30
Session Hosted By: M300
Critical Minerals – Africa’s Opportunity
• How can Africa’s wealth of critical minerals be mobilised to support global energy transition?
• Understanding the supply chain from extraction and processing to sales and export.
• Why the youth should be excited about harnessing critical minerals
Moderator:
Noella Molefe, Senior SpecialistClimate Change & Air Quality, Exxaro Resources
Speakers:
Latifa Zandamela, Attorney at Law, SAL & Caldeira Advogados, Lda. (A member of DLA Piper Africa)
Matthew le Cordeur
Research manager: Just Energy Transition, Krutham
Michael Tawiah Berko, Founder, Ahabanmono Impact
Delton Muianga, Political Economist, Independent Researcher
Session Hosted By:
Fuel Your Dreams: Kickstart a Career in the Energy & Water Sector
Hosted by: DBSA
Hosted by:
Trainer: Sherrie Donaldson, Lead; Opportunity, Development & Incubation, Harambee
Hosted by: EWSETA
Trainer: Powering Change: Understanding Energy, Shaping the Future
Speakers:
11:00-11:40 IFC
Speaker: Derick Dimala, HR Regional Lead for Africa, IFC 11:00 - 11:25 Eskom
Speaker: Representative, Eskom*
11:45-12:25 Zutari
Speakers:
Janice Foster, MD: Energy Africa, Diane Myers, Head of Talent Management Mercy Chigoma, Head Talent Acquisition, Suzie Nkosi, Emerging Talent Consultant
11:30 - 11:55
Speaker: Candice Oliver, Country Head of HR, Africa, Wärtsilä Energy 12:00 - 12:25
Speaker:
12:30-13:30 Networking
15:00-15:30
Rural Electrification – Developing Energy Access Across The Continent
• How will rural electrification projects provide employment opportunities to Africans?
Moderator:
Speakers:
Cyprien Musimar, Director General, Agence Nationale d’électrification et des Services Énergétiques en milieux Rural et périurbain (ANSER), Democratic Republic of the Congo
Brian Kelly, Founder & CEO, Anzana Electric
Felister Makumbinde, Acting CEO, Rural Electrification Agency, Zimbabwe
Imo-Obong Utoh, Mini-Grids Business Development Officer, ENGIE Energy Access (Africa), Nigeria
Johannes Enkono, Founder & CEO, Johannes Power Technology Bongeka Gumede, Grants and Project Manager, Vittoria Technology
The Next Wave of Projects in Africa
• What are the requirements for energy projects in Africa?
• How is the risk calculated for project development?
• How can these projects be integrated into the larger African energy ecosystem?
Moderator:
Speakers: David Arinze, Program Officer, Off Grid Energy, Diamond Development Initiatives
Mokgabo Tshenkeng, Investment Advisor, Autonomi Capital
Lucy Chege, Associate Executive, Project & Infrastructure Finance Department, Lending Operations, TDB (Trade & Development Bank)
Laura Spector, Country Manager, U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)
Session Hosted By: Power for All
Session Hosted By: UNFPA
Hosted by: Power for All
Hosted by: UNFPA
Trainer:
Alba Topulli, CEO, Power for All Sarah Shaikh, Senior Campaigns and Partnerships Lead, Power for All Sumaya Mahomed, Utilities Innovation and Uganda Country Director, Power for All
Trainer: Seyram Azah, Youth Leader, UNFPA Ghana
Awo Mashood, Youth Leader, UNFPA
Amtu AkumfiAmeyaw, Youth Leader, Diaspora Community Coordinator, GUBA
Persuasion and influence: How to win support, sell ideas and grow your business
Hosted by:
Manqoba Zungu, CoFounder and Chief Employment Officer, Get Ready Skills
13:30-14:10 Standard Bank Speakers: 13:30 - 13:55 DBSA Speaker:
Networking Coffee
14:15 -14:55 Warstila
Speakers: Candice Oliver, Country Head of HR, Africa, Wärtsilä Energy
14:00 - 14:25 Arup
Speaker: Charlotte Higgins, Associate Director, Arup 14:30 - 14:55 NOA
Speaker: Andrew Taylor, CEO of Trading, NOA
18:30 – 20:30
Off-Grid – Filling the Gap
• What are current trends indicating for off-grid?
• How is off grid filling the gap?
• What financing methods are used?
• How can off-grid projects become part of a larger energy ecosystem?
From Conception to Reality: Bringing Energy Projects to Success
• What does an energy project cycle look like?
• What are the factors behind a successful project cycle
• What are the main pitfalls and why is the sector struggling to find solutions?
Session Hosted By: Synergy Consulting
Session Hosted By: Wisdom and Wealth
Moderator:
Speakers: Jan Martin Witte, COO Asset Management, Cygnum Capital
Adekoyejo Kuye, Managing Director, KAMIM Technologies
Sarah Malm, Executive Director, GOGLA
Christiane Kragh, Founder & CEO, Off-Grid Europe
Timothy Chisale, CFO, Carbon reduction technologies (CRT)
Moderator: Mpho Phasha, Associate: Energy Finance, Nedbank CIB
Speakers: Obbie Banda, Senior Underwriter & RLSF Coordinator, ATIDI
Beatrice Nyabira, PartnerProjects, Energy & Restructuring, DLA Piper Africa, Kenya
Cynthia Kankindi, Legal Counsel, ALSF
Seithati Bolipombo, CCO, Mulilo
Yolanda Mabuto, GreenTech
Global Distinguished Judge (Renewable Energy), Milken
Hannah Muthoni Gichuki, Founder, Hannathon Ecodesign and Energy
Trainers: Sonia Keulder, Associate Director, Synergy Consulting
Trainers: Stefan Jacques Eksteen, Founder & COO, Wisdom and Wealth
Samantha Eksteen, Co-Founder, Wisdom and Wealth
Gen B: Africa’s Young Changemakers Shaping the Future of Business
• Showcasing inspirational young founders embedding sustainability in renewable energy, climate tech and clean cooking start ups
• Live Q&A on designing a purpose-driven start up
Hosted by: B Lab Africa 15:30-16:10
Speaker: 15:30 - 15:55
Speaker: 16:15-16:55
Speaker: 16:00 - 16:25
Speaker: 16:30 - 16:55
Speaker:
Day Three: Friday 20 June 2025
07:30-09:00
08:30-09:30 Generation Theatre
Registration & Networking Coffee
Bridging the Knowledge Gap: Collaboration Between Industry and Academia
• How can academia and private industry collaborate to overcome knowledge gaps in energy training?
• What are the critical skills that need to be developed to prepare young people for careers in energy?
• Skills vs Qualifications
Moderator:
Speakers:
Mohamed Rali Badissy, Professor & PPA Watch Co-Director, Penn State Dickinson Law & The Energy for Growth Hub
Aatifah Latief, Professional Officer: Communications, Training and Education. Sustainable Energy Facilitation, City of Cape Town.
Thapelo Motlegeloa, Head of Operations, Pele Energy Group*
Kai Forster, Consultant, Transforming Energy Access Learning Partnership (TEA-LP)
Sherrie Donaldson, Lead; Opportunity, Development & Incubation, Harambee
Mapaseka Setlhodi, National Pathway Management Network Lead, Presidential Youth Employment Intervention
Africa’s Wind – How to Unlock its Potential
• Opportunities and challenges
• Wind - Africa has only harnessed 2% of its wind power, what is stopping Africa from reaching full potential?
• Funding wind projects
• New wind technologies
• How can we store wind affordably?
• Grid integration with intermittency of wind
• Community impact
Moderator:
Speakers: George Njenga, Executive Chairman, Lake Turkana Wind Power
Wangari Muchiri, Director: Africa, Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC)
Steven Malenia, Co-Founder, Mpepu Energy
Mekdes Mezgebu, Co-founder &CEO, Mekdes & Associates Law Office
The Role of African Youth in Energy Policy and Advocacy
• The role of African youth in shaping energy policy and advocating for sustainable solutions.
• How young leaders are influencing energy decisionmaking at local, national, and regional levels.
Moderator:
Speakers: Daniel Aryee, Policy Advocacy Coordinator, African Union Commission, Ethiopia
Lucy Mutuku, CEO, National Youth Caucus Kenya
Katleho Mojakisane, Sustainable Futures Coordinator, Tangelic
Nicol Chaminama, ESG & Sustainability Lead, Veers Group
Abubakar Shuaibu, Founder & CEO, Green Energy Mission Africa
Cynthia Ngoma, Managing Director, Eco Equilibrium
‘GenCo’ Board Game: Simulating the South African Electricity Market
Finding Calm Amidst the Hustle: Meditation for Stress Relief in a Busy Work Life
Hosted By: GenCo
Trainer: Murendeni Matshinyatshimbi, Founder & Designer, GenCo Board Game
Hosted By: Tushita Kadampa Meditation Centre
Trainer: Gen Kelsang Namkhyen, Teacher, Tushita Kadampa Meditation Centre Chantelle Davies, Teacher, Tushita Kadampa Meditation Centre
How I am going to change the world through YES!
Our 7 grant winners will take to the stage in an interactive panel discussion to discuss their journey to YES!, why they are deserving winners of the award and how they'll change the world!
Speakers: Sheila Wambui Wairimu, Youth Energy Advocate, Kenyatta University Isshack Mutalla Mohammed, Local Pathways Fellow 2025, Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN)
Nancy Wangari, Project Engineer, CSI Energy Group
Ongor Ouma Kennedy, Co-founder, SmartMicrogrid Africa
Garda Rosemary, Building Services Engineer, Prodesign Engineering Consultants
Melanie Wamalwa Co-Founder, Sustainergy Solutions
Elisha Jones Nsojo, National Chairperson, Engineers Tanzania (IET Student Chapter) 09:30-10:10
Speaker: 09:30-09:55
Speaker: 10:10-10:45
Speaker 10:00-10:25
Speaker:
Candice van der Ventel, Investment Officer, Energy (Eastern & Southern Africa), FMO
Investment in Clean Energy Projects
Moderator: Thuso Xola Kuali, MBA Student, IESE
Speakers: Andrea Bertello, Director Country Engagement & Partnerships, RELP
Sani Musa Ibrahim, MSc Student, Dundee University
Iranga Mukendi, Investment Manager, African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM)
Ebrahim Makda, Corporate Finance Principal, Thebe Investment Corporation
Rhoda Limbani Mshana, Chief Energy Sector Regulations Specialist, AfDB
• How can Africa’s young innovators drive the continent’s energy future, and what can industry leaders do to support them?
Moderator: Mary Mindo, Assistant Manager, Digital Banking (Innovation Lab), Afreximbank
Speakers:
Atiku Jafar, Partner, Energy & Infrastructure Lawyer, Bowyard Partners
Ayodeji Stephen, Lead Consultant, HydroGEM Energy Advisory
Mekides Ashagre, Co-founder & CEO, Ablenee Energy Solutions Youth Innovation in the Development of Future Energy Technologies
Benaiah Namunyu, Chairperson, MURESA
Denis Kirera Muchoki, CEO & CoFounder, E-Moti
Confirmed Speakers to Date
Presidents, Vice Presidents, and Ministers
• H.E. Honourable Biodun Ogunleye, Commissioner for Energy & Mineral Resources, Lagos State Government, Nigeria
• H.E. Honourable Olivier Jean-Baptiste, Minister of Energy & Hydrocarbons, Madagascar
• H.E. Honourable July Moyo, Minister of Energy & Power Development, Zimbabwe
Public Sector, Utilities, and Regulators
• Representative, Eskom*
• Representative, Eskom*
• Dzunani Makgopa, Head of Finance and Corporate Services; Acting Head, Economic Development, IPP Office, South Africa
• Crescent Mushwana, Head of Technical, IPP Office, South Africa
• Felister Makumbinde, Acting CEO, Rural Electrification Agency Zimbabwe
• Cyprien Musimar, Director General, Agence Nationale d’électrification et des Services Énergétiques en milieux Rural et périurbain (ANSER), Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Sampson Mamphweli, Head, Energy Secretariat, South African, National Energy Development, Institute (SANEDI), South Africa
• Wangari Muchiri, Director: Africa, Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC)
• Aatifah Latief, Professional Officer: Sustainable Energy Facilitation, Sustainable Energy Markets Department, Energy Directorate, City of Cape Town
• Pitso Sekhoto, Middle Manager, National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) & Eskom
• Nomfundo Maseti, Full-Time Regulator Member responsible for Piped Gas & Electricity Regulation, National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), South Africa
• Jabu Mtsweni, Head of Cyber & Information Research Centre, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South Africa
Academics, Initiative Providers, & Associations
• Sani Musa Ibrahim, MSc Student, Dundee University
• Mohamed Rali Badissy, Professor & PPA Watch Co-Director, Penn State Dickinson Law & The Energy for Growth Hub
• Daniel Kammen, Professor of Energy, University of California, Berkeley
• Wikus Kruger, Director, Power Futures Lab – University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business
• Bertha Tobias, Rhodes Scholar, MSc Student (Environment and Enterprise), Oxford University
• Haruna Inuwa, Energy Systems Modelling & Future Fuels Researcher, University of Oxford
• Raymond Takuba, MBA Candidate Project Developer, University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business
• Mark Swilling, Professor, Commissioner, National Planning Commission, Stellenbosch University
• Brenda Marbaniang, Policy Manager, Policy and Regional Strategy, GOGLA
• Gloria Kuyoh, Project Manager for Productive Uses of Renewable Energy (PURE), GOGLA
• Sarah Malm, Executive Director, GOGLA
• Joseph Lumbahe, AI Regional Ambassador, South African AI Association
• Valentino Chigwedere, CEO, AEEYC
• Chisala Bwalya, Director of Research & Development, Zambia Research & Development Centre
• Manqoba Zungu, Co-Founder and Chief Employment Officer, Get Ready Skills
• Kai Forster, Consultant, Transforming Energy Access Learning Partnership (TEA-LP)
• Michael Opeyemi Ige, Youth Programme Advisor, United Nations World Food Programme
• Alba Topulli, CEO, Power for All
• Mogomotsi Mokwena, Founder, Chairing Growth
• Jeannie Myeni, Partner, Chairing Growth
• Seyram Azah, Youth Leader, UNFPA Ghana
• Awo Mashood, Youth Leader, UNFPA
• Amtu Akumfi-Ameyaw, Youth Leader, Diaspora Community Coordinator, GUBA
• Sarah Shaikh, Senior Campaigns and Partnerships Lead, Power for All
• Sumaya Mahomed, Utilities Innovation and Uganda Country Director, Power for All
• Sherrie Donaldson, Lead; Opportunity, Development & Incubation, Harambee
• Stefan Jacques Eksteen, Founder & COO, Wisdom and Wealth
• Samantha Eksteen, Co-Founder, Wisdom and Wealth
• Michael Tawiah Berko, Founder, Ahabanmono Impact
• Murendeni Matshinyatshimbi, Founder & Designer, GenCo Board Game
• Gen Kelsang Namkhyen, Teacher, Tushita Kadampa Meditation Centre
• Chantelle Davies, Teacher, Tushita Kadampa Meditation Centre
• Mapaseka Setlhodi, National Pathway Management Network Lead, Presidential Youth Employment Intervention
Private Sector
• Gqi Raoleka, CEO, Pele Energy Group
• Obakeng Moloabi, Head of Business Development, Pele Energy Group
• Anél Bosman, Group Managing Executive, Nedbank CIB
• Akinola Omoboriowo, Chairman & CEO, Genesis Energy
• Thabile Ngwato, CEO & Co-Founder, Newzroom Afrika
• Layton Nenzinane, CFO, Seriti Green
• Brian Kelly, Founder & CEO, Anzana Electric
• Kweku Awotwi, Co-Founder & Non-Executive Director, Cenpower Generation Company
• Ahmed Mulla, Deputy CEO, Infinity Power
• George Njenga, Executive Chairman, Lake Turkana Wind Power
• Jan Martin Witte, COO Asset Management, Cygnum Capital
• Kingsley Okenyi, Director, SunBridge Power
• Danna Mhango, Business Development Manager, Globeleq
• Shalin Ledwaba, Head of Talent Acquisition, Bowmans
• Norman Moyo, CEO, Grid Africa
• Seithati Bolipombo, CCO, Mulilo
• Marius Harmse, Country Manager of South Africa, Tecloman
• Heath Andersen, Data Centre Consultant, DCDesign.Africa
• Bryce Allan, Head of Sustainability, Teraco
• Cynthia Kankindi, Legal Counsel, ALSF
• Jolene Shaw, General Manager, Knowledge Pele
• Bongani Makhubo, Senior Strategy and Impact Manager, Knowledge Pele
• Phathutshedzo Mushanganyisi, Programmes Implementation Lead, Knowledge Pele
• Melissa Wilkinson, CPO, Pele Energy Group
• Obbie Banda, Senior Underwriter & RLSF Coordinator, ATIDI
• Frank Spencer, Regional Director, Southern Africa, Cainmani
• Beatrice Nyabira, Partner- Projects, Energy & Restructuring, DLA Piper Africa, Kenya
• David Arinze, Program Officer, Off Grid Energy, Diamond Development Initiatives
• Geoffrey Ronoh, CTO, OFGEN Africa
• Mokgabo Tshenkeng, Investment Advisor, Autonomi Capital
• Omaira Jajbhay, Electrical Engineer, ZUTARI
• Agbor Mbi Sobeh, Business Development Executive, EnergyNet
• Mary Mindo, Assistant Manager, Digital Banking (Innovation Lab), Afreximbank
• Ammaara Ebrahim, Associate: Energy Finance, Nedbank CIB
• Mpho Phasha, Associate: Energy Finance, Nedbank CIB
• Priya Surendra, Executive Head: Human Resources, Nedbank CIB
• Latifa Zandamela, Attorney at Law, SAL & Caldeira Advogados, Lda. (A member of DLA Piper Africa)
• Adekoyejo Kuye, Managing Director, KAMIM Technologies
• Nonjabulo Sokhela, CEO, Nepoworx
• Zvikomborero Garahwa, Head of Engineering, Matla Energy
• Denis Kirera Muchoki, CEO & Co-Founder, E-Moti
• Ayodeji Stephen, Lead Consultant, HydroGEM Energy Advisory
• Fakazile Thusi, Project Developer, Voltalia
• Andrea Bertello, Director Country Engagement & Partnerships, RELP
• Michelle Govender, Founder, Octarity
• Wendy Green, Country Head of South Africa, Daystar Power Group
• Johannes Enkono, Founder & CEO, Johannes Power Technology
• Thapelo Motlegeloa, Head of Operations, Pele Energy Group*
• Adhila Mayet, Head of Project Development, Pele Green Energy*
• Katleho Mojakisane, Sustainable Futures Coordinator, Tangelic
• Iranga Mukendi, Investment Manager, African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM)
• Thuthukani Nduduzo Biyela, Managing Director Siphulathuthu Engineering, CIGRE D2 Strategic Advisory Group (SAG)
• Ebrahim Makda, Corporate Finance Principal, Thebe Investment Corporation
• Richard Doyle, Managing Director, JUWI
• Prince Abudu, Head of technology for Artificial Intelligence, Cassava Technologies
• Lerato Mashiloane, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner Africa, Siemens Energy
• Mohamed Ismail Mansour, Co-Founder & Chairman, Infinity Power
• Margo Buchanan, SIY Certified Teacher, SIY Global
• Amyn Mussa, Partner, Anjarwalla & Khanna LLP
• Nicol Chaminama, ESG & Sustainability Lead, Veers Group
• Chris Flavin, Interim CEO, Gridworks
• Christiane Kragh, Founder & CEO, Off-Grid Europe
• Stephen McNeill, Co-founder & Partner, Nopal
• Matthew le Cordeur, Research manager: Just Energy Transition, Krutham
• Suad Abdel Rahman, Co-Founder, Sanasana Sustainability
• Sandra Cherotich Siwa, Founder & Director, Energy Nova
• Celiwe Mabaso, Head of Sustainability, NOA
• Thulani Ncube, Head of Energy & Service Delivery, Africa Data Centres
• Candice Oliver, Country Head of HR, Africa, Wärtsilä Energy
• Charlotte Higgins, Associate Director, Arup
• Andrew Taylor, CEO Of Trading, NOA
• Laura Spector, Country Manager, U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)
• Sonia Keulder, Associate Director, Synergy Consulting
• Hannah Muthoni Gichuki, Founder, Hannathon Ecodesign and Energy
• Bongeka Gumede, Grants and Project Manager, Vittoria Technology
• Cynthia Ngoma, Managing Director, Eco Equilibrium
• Mekides Ashagre, Co-founder & CEO, Ablenee Energy Solutions
• Micheala De Klerk, Mechanical (Rotating Equipment) & Welding Engineer, Siemens Energy
• Mekdes Mezgebu, Co-founder & CEO, Mekdes & Associates Law Office
• Delton Muianga, Political Economist, Independent Researcher
• Akinwole II Omoboriowo, Chairman & CEO, Genesis Energy
• Thabo Molekoa, Chairman and Managing Director of Southern and Eastern Africa, Siemens Energy
• Derick Dimala, HR Regional Lead for Africa, IFC
• Candice van der Ventel, Investment Officer, Energy (Eastern & Southern Africa), FMO
• Rhoda Limbani Mshana, Chief Energy Sector Regulations Specialist, AfDB
• Caroline Makenzi, Principal Program Coordinator – Energy and Climate, AfDB
• Lucy Chege, Associate Executive, Project & Infrastructure Finance Department, Lending Operations, TDB (Trade & Development Bank)
• Timothy Chisale, CFO, Carbon reduction technologies (CRT)
YES! Alumni – Walk with Me Programme (Featuring YES! Alumni who have made great strides in the past year through YES!)
• Thuso Xola Kuali, MBA Student, IESE, South Africa
• Madalitso Chimpeni, Co-Founder, Mpepu Energy, Malawi, represented by Steven Malenia
• Matsepiso Majoro, Co-Founder/Managing Director, Mahlaseli Energy, Lesotho
• Jane Nakasamu, Co-Founder, Greenbelt Energy, Zambia
• Kamilu Sani, Drilling Fluid Engineer, Hamilton Technologies, Nigeria
• Imo-Obong Utoh, Minigrids Business Development Officer, ENGIE Energy Access (Africa), Nigeria
• Rebecca Agadumo, Assistant Project Manager, UNIDO Global Cleantech Innovation Program (GCIP), Nigeria
• Mercy Kayalo, Founder & CEO, Feion Green Ventures, Nairobi
• Emmanuel Terwase, Founder & CEO, Boost Power, Nigeria
• Noella Molefe, Senior Specialist- Climate Change & Air Quality, Exxaro Resources, South Africa
YES! Members Who are Now developing in the Sector
• Daniel Aryee, Policy Advocacy Coordinator, African Union Commission, Ethiopia
• Damilola Hamid Balogun, Co-Founder/CEO, Youth Sustainable Development Network (YSDN)
• Benaiah Namunyu, Chairperson, MURESA, Kenya
• Abubakar Shuaibu, Founder & CEO, Green Energy Mission Africa
• Lucy Mutuku, CEO, National Youth Caucus Kenya
• Atiku Jafar, Partner & Energy and Infrastructure Lawyer, Bowyard Partners
YES! 2025 Grant Winners
• Nancy Wangari, Project Engineer, CSI Energy Group
• Sheila Wambui Wairimu, Youth Energy Advocate, Kenyatta University
• Isshack Mutalla Mohammed, Local Pathways Fellow 2025, Sustainable Development Solutions Network
• Ongor Ouma Kennedy, Co-founder, SmartMicrogrid Africa
• Garda Rosemary, Building Services Engineer, Prodesign Engineering Consultants
• Melanie Wamalwa, Co-Founder, Sustainergy Solutions
• Elisha Jones Nsojo, National Chairperson, Engineers Tanzania (IET Student Chapter)
Note * =awaiting final confirmation