“No matter how small, every contribution plays a vital role in supporting humanity — let’s come together to create a world where no one is left behind.”

Adefolawe Adeyeye

2025 Top 30 Under 30

About

 

AGE: 27

PRONOUNS: She/Her

HOMETOWN: Ido-Oko, Nigeria

CURRENT RESIDENCE: Calgary, AB

ORGANIZATIONS:

    • Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST)
    • United for Health WASH Group

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

I am most passionate about:

What specific issue(s) are you working to address, and what motivates you to do so?

At the Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST), I am dedicated to addressing the barriers that hinder the success of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) projects. My primary focus is on building the capacity of individuals and organizations by delivering both in-person and online training programs and providing consulting support. These sessions equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement WASH projects successfully within their communities.

At the United for Health WASH Group, I create engaging educational materials aimed at raising awareness in rural communities in Nigeria about improving their WASH conditions. I leverage social media to reach a diverse audience and create awareness about WASH disparities.

I am deeply motivated to contribute to the WASH sector, driven by my experiences growing up in a developing country. Although I was not directly affected by the lack of access to safe drinking water, witnessing rural communities’ challenges in securing safe water inspired me to pursue a career focused on improving these conditions. Additionally, I aspire to see a world where every individual has access to safe drinking water, equitable access to improved WASH facilities, and where no one is left behind in the pursuit of basic human rights.

What is your foundation?

I have always been passionate about improving our environment, particularly regarding the water we drink. During my undergraduate studies, I completed an internship at the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency in Lagos, Nigeria, where I had the opportunity to test potable and wastewater samples. This experience was a turning point in my life, igniting my desire to develop the technical expertise necessary to solve the water challenges around me.

I later earned a master’s degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Environmental Systems Engineering from the University of British Columbia. My research focused on identifying low-cost maintenance solutions for UV disinfection systems used in drinking water treatment in low-resource settings. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to receive mentorship from many remarkable individuals who have guided my professional development. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside and learn from such inspiring people over the years.

What is your vision for the future?

My ultimate goal is to be part of the conversations that shape policies, ensuring that no one is left behind or without access to essential WASH services, no matter where they live. I am deeply committed to driving positive change, particularly for those in remote and underserved communities, where access to safely-managed water and sanitation facilities remains a significant challenge.

I can make a meaningful impact through my work in building the capacity of WASH implementers. Even though I may never have the chance to visit many of the communities I help physically, my efforts contribute to improved WASH outcomes that will benefit countless individuals. The true measure of my work will be seen in the lasting improvements in access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene across many communities, especially those that have been historically overlooked.

As I continue to learn from the experiences of those who have paved the way before me, I am committed to sharing the knowledge I have gained and empowering future leaders in the WASH sector. I aspire to leave a legacy of knowledge, collaboration, and advocacy that will impact future work and inspire those who follow me to continue the fight for universal access to WASH services.

Adefolawe conducting water sampling for water quality testing in Chiapas, Mexico

Adefolawe addressing volunteers at the Let’s Talk Science UBC Volunteer Appreciation Night.

Adefolawe presenting some findings from her master’s research at the 2nd Canadian IWA YWP Conference

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