By Nicholas Akasula
Eva Kirabo describes herself as a social entrepreneur, climate change advocate and youth empowerment trainer.
“I am passionate about using innovation to create sustainable solutions for both people and the planet,” she says.
Background
Raised by a single mother under humble circumstances, Kirabo spent a year at home after completing Senior Six because her mother could not afford to take her to higher education.
Despite the challenges, she says God remained faithful.
“My performance in school earned me a sponsorship from SOS Children’s Village Entebbe, where I trained in solar installation. Because of my good results, I was later offered an additional course in electrical installation. I graduated with two UBTEB certificates — one in solar installation and another in electrical installation,” she recalls.
After completing her studies, Kirabo joined the long queue of young people searching for employment.
Her efforts proved unsuccessful until she received a call that changed her life.
“I was invited to apply for a project aimed at replicating the Social Innovation Academy (SINA) model in Bombo, where I lived. Out of 80 applicants, only three of us were selected,” she says.
She then underwent a year-long training programme at the organisation’s headquarters in Mpigi and qualified as a certified trainer and life coach.
Changemaker
Today, Kirabo is helping to transform lives in her community.
She co-founded and runs a youth empowerment centre in Bombo.
“We guide young people through personal and professional development and help them create social enterprises that address local challenges,” she explains.
Kirabo also founded Solight Enterprise, a social business that turns plastic waste into solar-powered school bags.
The bags enable children in off-grid communities to study at night, contributing to quality education, clean energy and climate action.
“Beyond the products, we actively promote climate education in schools through environmental clubs and community outreach programmes,” she says.
Inspiration
According to Kirabo, her inspiration comes from her own life experience.
Growing up without access to opportunities and resources motivated her to become an agent of change.
“I was determined to become the kind of person I once needed — someone who sees possibility in difficulty. My journey through poverty, unemployment and eventual empowerment gave me the conviction to build systems that uplift others,” she says.
The idea for the recycled solar-powered bags was born from a painful family experience.
A kerosene lamp severely burnt her niece, who nearly lost her life.
That incident convinced Kirabo that safer and more sustainable alternatives were needed for children living without electricity.
The Journey
The journey has not been easy.
Kirabo says she and her team had to earn the trust of the community, mobilise resources and create awareness about social innovation.
Today, she says, many young people who arrive at the centre uncertain about their future leave with confidence and practical business ideas.
“We have directly impacted more than 100 young people through our empowerment centre. Our environmental clubs are active in four schools, reaching hundreds of students with climate education, while our recycled solar bags have benefited dozens of children in off-grid communities,” she says.
Challenges
Although Kirabo is increasingly invited to speak at national and international conferences on youth resilience and climate change, challenges remain.
“We operate with limited funding, rely heavily on volunteer support and often face scepticism from people unfamiliar with our approach. However, our passion, unity and sense of purpose keep us moving forward,” she says.
She adds that managing limited logistical resources while maintaining engagement with schools is another ongoing challenge.
Looking Ahead
Kirabo envisions expanding Solight Enterprise across Uganda and beyond.
“I want to establish a workshop that employs young people to produce solar-powered bags and other sustainable products. Over the next five years, I hope to see environmental clubs established in 100 schools and to contribute to policy advocacy on youth inclusion in climate action,” she says.
Kirabo believes that a person’s background does not determine their future.
“When opportunity meets resilience, great things happen. I believe in turning challenges into possibilities — not only for myself, but also for my community, my country and the planet. My mission is simple: empower, educate and elevate,” she concludes.
