By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
Zuriel Oduwole, a passionate advocate for peace, education, and gender equality, has been nominated for the prestigious 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
At just 22, she has made remarkable contributions to global diplomacy, engaging with world leaders and championing education for marginalized communities.
Here are 10 key facts about her inspiring journey:
1. One of the Youngest Nobel Peace Prize Nominees
Zuriel’s nomination is a testament to her relentless efforts in diplomacy and advocacy. Her recognition also highlights Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.
2. A Global Diplomat Since Her Teenage Years
By the age of 13, she had already mediated a territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, engaging with then-President David Granger at the United Nations to promote peaceful dialogue.
3. Consulted with World Leaders on Peace Strategies
In 2020, she met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss global peace strategies amid the Arab blockade of Qatar, which concluded peacefully in 2021.
4. Met with Over 35 Presidents and Prime Ministers
Zuriel has engaged directly with world leaders to push for policies that enhance education and peace efforts, particularly for marginalized communities.
5. Advocated for Education Reform at the US State Department
At just 14, she met with then-US Secretary of State John Kerry, advocating for “reward-based” education programs to improve school retention rates for girls in developing nations.
6. Honored with the Ban Ki-moon Leadership Award
In 2022, she received the 8th UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Leadership Award in New York for her decade-long mediation efforts and commitment to gender equality.
7. Played a Role in Ending Child Marriage in Mozambique
Her advocacy contributed to policy discussions that led to the end of child marriage in Mozambique in 2019, following talks with President Filipe Nyusi.
8. Inspired by Young Girls in Accra
Zuriel’s advocacy for education began when she was nine after witnessing young girls in Accra selling goods instead of attending school. This motivated her to use documentary filmmaking to highlight educational barriers.
9. Founded ‘Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up’ (DUSUSU)
In 2013, she launched DUSUSU, an initiative aimed at empowering youth, especially girls, to advocate for education and leadership opportunities. It has since reached young people across Africa and the Caribbean.
10. Remains Humble Despite Global Recognition
Reacting to her Nobel Peace Prize nomination, Zuriel expressed humility and surprise. “I have never sought recognition, only to speak up where it’s needed,” she said. “
The Nobel Peace Prize, one of the most esteemed global honors, recognizes individuals and organizations making significant contributions to peace and human rights.
Past recipients include Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, Wangari Maathai, and Kofi Annan.The Norwegian Nobel Committee will announce the 2025 laureate later this year.
