
A Rising Star in Global Peace Advocacy
At just 22 years old, Zuriel Oduwole, a dynamic advocate for education, peace, and gender equality, has carved out an impressive niche on the global stage. Recently nominated for the prestigious 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, Oduwole has spent over a decade championing diplomatic discussions and policies aimed at improving educational access for marginalized communities.
From Childhood Advocacy to International Recognition
Oduwole's journey began as a young girl, catalyzed by her experiences witnessing young girls in Accra selling goods instead of attending school. Inspired by this reality, she founded "Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up" (DUSUSU) to give youth, especially young girls, a voice in advocating for education. Her poignant endeavors gained traction early in her life, famously mediating a territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela at only 13. This early triumph paved the way for her interactions with numerous world leaders and sparked her passion for using systemic change as a tool for peace.
Pioneering Futures Through Education
Throughout her advocacy, Oduwole has underscored education as a linchpin for stability and peace. Her dialogue with Global leaders has focused on systemic changes needed to enhance educational opportunities, most notably influencing the end of child marriage in Mozambique in 2019. Her work resonates deeply within the AfCFTA framework, promoting the idea that educated youth are vital for driving Africa's digital economy and trade advancement.
Recognition and Impact
As part of her ongoing efforts, Oduwole received the Ban Ki-moon Leadership Award in 2022, solidifying her standing as a significant voice for youth advocacy. Her nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize exemplifies Nigeria's growing influence on the world stage and reflects the importance of investing in young leaders who are ready to challenge societal norms and push for meaningful change.
In her own words, Oduwole states, "I try to show myself by example through excellence," a mantra that resonates strongly as she encourages others to strive for and advocate education change globally. Her nomination speaks not just to her accomplishments, but to the urgent need to amplify young voices who are poised to become the key drivers of future progress.
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