By Godwin Oritse

Mary Adebote, a leader in fisheries science and environmental conservation, has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to youth empowerment and sustainability.

In 2023, she received two prestigious honors—the One Million Leaders Africa (OMLA) Fellowship and the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Award—both celebrating her commitment to impactful leadership and environmental advocacy.

The OMLA Fellowship, awarded to exceptional young leaders across Africa, recognizes individuals dedicated to solving societal challenges through innovative and sustainable approaches. Adebote was selected for her passion in fisheries management, climate action, and environmental sustainability. Through this fellowship, she has actively contributed to initiatives that train and inspire the next generation of change-makers across the continent.

Similarly, the YALI Award, a distinguished U.S. government initiative, recognized her pivotal role in advancing environmental literacy and advocacy. As part of her YALI engagement, Adebote co-led the Eco Literacy and Action Project, a transformative initiative designed to equip students and teachers with essential knowledge and action-oriented strategies. The project, implemented in government schools in Abuja, Nigeria, focused on three key areas:  sustainability sessions, school-based conservation projects, and teacher training workshops. At the end of 2023, the Eco Literacy and Action project reached hundreds of students and educators, fostering environmental awareness and equipping young people with the skills to lead sustainable initiatives within their communities.

Beyond her accolades, Adebote has remained steadfast in her mission to bridge scientific research with real-world applications, ensuring that local fishing communities benefit from sustainable practices. Her work highlights the intersection of science, leadership, and community engagement, reinforcing the critical role of young professionals in shaping Africa’s environmental and economic future.
As the world marks Women’s Month this March, Mary Adebote’s journey serves as a compelling reminder of the vital role women play in driving scientific innovation, environmental stewardship, and community leadership. Her work exemplifies the power of women-led change, inspiring young girls across Africa to lead with purpose and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future.

With these remarkable achievements, Mary Adebote continues to set a precedent for young African scientists and leaders, proving that passion, dedication, and a commitment to sustainability can drive meaningful change. She is not just shaping the future of fisheries science; she is inspiring a movement that will leave a lasting impact for generations to come.