Zuriel Oduwole, a 22-year-old Nigerian advocate for peace, education, and gender equality, has received a nomination for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. Her work in global diplomacy and efforts to improve education for marginalized communities have earned international recognition, showcasing Nigeria’s growing influence on the world stage.
A Young Diplomat with Global Impact
Born in Los Angeles to Nigerian grandparents, Oduwole’s heritage has shaped her advocacy and global outlook. She began making her mark in diplomacy at just 13 years old. During a territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, she met with then-President David Granger at the United Nations. She pushed for peaceful dialogue to resolve the conflict, highlighting her early talent for mediation.
Her diplomatic journey continued in 2020. During the Arab blockade of Qatar, Oduwole consulted with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Her support for peace talks contributed to the peaceful resolution of the blockade in 2021.
Championing Education and Equality
Oduwole’s passion for education started when she was nine years old. While visiting Accra, she saw young girls selling goods instead of attending school. This experience inspired her to use documentary filmmaking to shed light on educational barriers.
In 2013, she founded Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up (DUSUSU). The initiative aims to empower youth—especially girls—to pursue education and leadership opportunities. Her work has reached many communities across Africa and the Caribbean, promoting gender equality.
At 14, she met with then-U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. She advocated for ‘reward-based’ education programs to boost school retention, particularly for girls in developing nations. Her efforts led to real policy changes. In 2019, following discussions with President Filipe Nyusi, her influence helped end child marriage in Mozambique.
Recognition and Humility
In 2022, Oduwole received the Ban Ki-moon Leadership Award for her decade-long work in mediation and gender parity. Her advocacy has not only sparked change but also influenced international policies promoting peace and development.
Her Nobel Peace Prize nomination by the Norwegian Nobel Committee came as a surprise. Oduwole expressed her gratitude, saying, “I have never sought recognition—only to speak up where it’s needed. This honor reflects the urgent need to invest in young voices as agents of change.”
A Youthful Voice for Global Change
The Nobel Peace Prize is among the world’s most prestigious awards. It honors those who make major contributions to peace and human rights. Past winners include Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter, Barack Obama, Wangari Maathai, and Kofi Annan.
The 2025 laureate will be announced later this year. The awards ceremony is scheduled for December 10, marking the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s passing.
Regardless of the outcome, Zuriel Oduwole’s nomination is a win for youth-driven advocacy. Her story proves that young voices can shape global policy and promote lasting peace. She continues to inspire young leaders worldwide, showing that age is no barrier to making a real impact.