Zuriel Oduwole, receives a nomination for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.

Zuriel Oduwole, a champion for peace, education, and gender equality, has received a nomination for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.

Zuriel

At just 22 years old, Zuriel Oduwole has already made a remarkable impact as a filmmaker and advocate for girls' education. Born in Los Angeles to a Nigerian father and a Mauritian mother, she began her journey into media and advocacy at the age of nine. Her first project, a documentary titled "The Ghana Revolution," involved interviews with former Ghanaian presidents Jerry Rawlings and John Kufuor. This early endeavor set the stage for her commitment to promoting education and positive narratives about Africa.

In 2013, at just 10 years old, Zuriel was profiled by Forbes Magazine, making her the youngest person to receive such recognition. By 12, she had self-produced and edited the documentary "A Promising Africa," which was screened in countries including Ghana, England, South Africa, and Japan. Her work has led her to meet with 31 presidents and prime ministers, discussing education advocacy and global socio-development. Notable figures she's engaged with include the leaders of Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, and Liberia.

Zuriel's dedication extends beyond filmmaking. In March 2013, she launched the "Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up" initiative, aiming to inspire young girls across Africa to pursue education. Through this program, she has spoken to over 48,000 youths in 19 countries, emphasizing the transformative power of education. Her efforts have been recognized globally; in 2015, ELLE Magazine listed her among "33 Women Who Changed The World," and in 2017, she was honored by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry for her advocacy against child marriages and for girls' education.

In June 2022, Zuriel graduated from UCLA at 19 and is currently pursuing graduate studies focusing on global risk and international affairs. Despite her academic commitments, she continues to inspire millions worldwide, sharing her insights and advising leaders on education and gender development. Her unwavering commitment to empowering young girls and reshaping global perceptions of Africa underscores the profound impact one individual can have on the world.