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NATIONAL ENERGY CONFERENCE 2025

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Days

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THE NATIONAL ENERGY CONFERENCE 2025

REIAMA Energy Conference 2025 Registration

MEET THE SPEAKERS 

We’re excited to host a powerful lineup of experts, innovators, and changemakers from across the region.

Eng. Dr. Chilala Kakoma Bowa

Distinguished engineer, energy expert, and education

Mr. Serge Wilson MUHIZI

Chief Executive Officer of Energy Private Developers (EPD),

Christa Roth

FOOD and FUEL consultant

Mr. Schizzo Thomson

Founder and Managing Director, Sky Energy Africa

Priscilla Sani-Chimwele

Founder and CEO of Wala Ltd

Mr. Maxime Marion

Managing Director of GGF

Mr. Noel Mkulichi

Current Managing Director of FDH Bank Plc

Mr. Kamkwamba Kumwenda

Chief Executive Officer of the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM)

Mr. Eric Ngomwa

Founder of E-Nyasa Solar and Gas Ltd. and a passionate Clean Energy Advocate

Mr. Chindota Tambala

Expert in bridging public-private sector collaborations

Programme V5

Malawi National Energy Conference (4th Edition) 
Theme: Unlocking Finance for Energy Security

We have a dynamic agenda filled with insightful sessions, impactful presentations, and engaging workshops. Stay connected for updates!

 Setting the Stage: Global Trends and Sub-Saharan Africa’s Energy Landscape

05:30 - 07:00

Optional Health Activity

07:30 - 08:30

Registration & Networking

08:30 - 10:00

Official Opening Ceremony and Key Speeches

This session will mark the formal opening of the conference and extend a warm welcome to all delegates and dignitaries. It will provide a high-level overview of Malawi's energy vision, strategic priorities, and commitment to achieving energy security. It will also underscore the critical importance of the conference theme within the national, regional, and global energy landscape.


  • Welcome Address: Mr. Brave Mhonie, President, Renewable Energy Industries Association of Malawi (REIAMA)
  • Remarks by E. U. Delegation: Else Boonstra, Head of Political Section and Charge d’Affairs
  • Key Remarks from MoE: EngAlfonso Chikuni, Secretary for Energy
  • Official Opening: Hon. Ibrahim Matola, Minister of Energy

 10:00 - 10:30

Group Photo and Coffee Break

 10:30 - 12:00

High-Level Panel: Global Energy Financing Trends and Their Implications for Sub-Saharan Africa 

Description: This high-level panel will discuss the accelerating global trends in energy financing, emerging technologies, business models, and critical lessons learned from developed and other African countries in achieving energy security through strategic and innovative financing instruments. It will highlight how these trends impact Sub-Saharan Africa's and Malawi's energy landscape and their pursuit of the SDGs and climate commitments.


Panellists:

  • Alfred M. Nhlema: Head of Corporate Banking, NBS Bank
  • Ms. Angelica Sartori-Conte: EU Representative
  • Mr. Om Bhandari: Senior Energy Specialist, World Bank
  • Eng. Alfonso Chikuni: Secretary for Energy, Ministry of Energy
  • Dr. Collen Zalengera: Country Manager, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)

 12:00 - 13:30

Networking Lunch

 13:30 - 15:15

Panel Discussion: Pathways to Energy Security and Financing Modalities in Malawi: Live Broadcast-GEAPP

Description: This panel will analyse Malawi's current and potential energy resources and technologies, exploring both grid and off-grid options, determining who is funding Malawi’s energy sector, emphasising the strategies required for enhancing grid infrastructure, effectively integrating increasing renewable energy penetration, and improving grid resilience against climate-related shocks. Furthermore, it will also explore financing needs and current funding models to harness the national energy resources' potential and turn them into a tangible national investment portfolio to drive the socio-economic development of Malawi and attract private investment to achieve Mission 2063. This session will also provide a chance for the public to ask questions and interact with the panellists.


Panellists:

  • Mr. Kamkwamba Kumwenda: CEO, Electricity Supply Commission of Malawi (ESCOM)
  • Mr. Million Mafuta: Director of Electricity, Ministry of Energy
  • Mr. Henry Kachaje: CEO Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA)
  • Eng. Dr. Maxon Chitawo: CEO, Electricity Generation Company (EGENCO)
  • Mr. Kjetil Røine: CEO, Differ Community Energy

 15:30 - 17:00

Parallel Sessions

Session 1 A:  Grid Modernisation, Integration of Renewables and Energy Security

Description: This session will explore strategies for enhancing Malawi's grid infrastructure to accommodate increased renewable energy penetration and improve resilience against climate-related shocks. It will explore the implementation of smart grid technologies, address grid stability challenges, and examine financing needs to sustain the national grid infrastructure.

Areas of focus:

  • Integrating large-scale solar into Malawi's national grid.
  • Strategies for Strengthening Grid Infrastructure against Extreme Weather Events.
  • Case studies of successful smart grid implementations in developing countries.
  • The role of non-renewables in achieving energy security
  • Funding models that are working in Malawi and elsewhere

Target :


Session 1 B: Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) in the Energy Sector: Policy and Action 

Description: This session will address gender disparities in energy access and employment, promoting inclusive energy policies that leave no one behind, and exploring the nexus between energy enterprising and GESI.

Areas of focus:

  • Challenges faced by women and marginalised groups in accessing energy.
  • Successful initiatives promoting women's participation in the energy workforce.
  • Designing energy solutions that are accessible and affordable for all.
  • Empowering women and youth through energy entrepreneurship.

Speakers:


Session 1C: Powering Opportunities: Productive Use of Renewable Energy Technologies for Agriculture, Health,  Cooking, E-Mobility and Livelihoods

Description: This session will explore the transformative potential of renewable energy technologies in fostering sustainable development across multiple sectors. We will delve into how these technologies can be leveraged for productive uses in agriculture, improve health outcomes, advance cleaner cooking, support the growth of e-mobility, and enhance livelihoods, with a particular focus on their applicability and impact in Malawi.

Areas of focus:

  • Exploring advancements and applications of renewable energy technologies in agriculture
  • The role of renewable energy in improving health
  • Examining the latest innovations in clean cooking
  • Approaches to make productive use of renewable energy solutions accessible and affordable for households and businesses, including financing and distribution models, and their impact on livelihoods.
  • Government policies, standards, and incentives for the productive use of renewable energy technologies.
  • Supply chain challenges for various renewable energy technologies

Speakers:


 17:30 - 19:30

REIAMA Annual General Meeting

Technologies and Supporting Policies and Financing Initiatives: Completing the Puzzle

05:30 - 07:00

Optional Health Activity

08:30 - 09:00

RECAP from Day One 

09:00 - 10:30

Panel Discussion: Strengthening Policy and Regulatory Frameworks for Energy Security in Malawi

Description: This session will assess the effectiveness of existing energy policies and regulations in Malawi and identify necessary reforms to attract investment, promote renewable energy deployment, and ensure regulatory clarity and predictability.

Areas of focus:

  • Overview of Malawi's current energy policy landscape.
  • Policy incentives for renewable energy investment and local manufacturing.
  • The role of the private sector, policymakers, and regulatory bodies in coordinated implementation.
  • Addressing regulatory barriers to successful project implementation.

Speakers:

  • Eng. Alfonso Chikuni, Ministry of Energy
  • Collin Gumbu, Global Association for the Off-Grid Solar Energy Industry (GOGLA)
  • Serge Muhisi, Energy Private Developers (EPD), Rwanda
  • Damien Frame, University of Strathclyde

10:30 - 11:00

Networking Coffee Break

11:00 - 12:30

Parallel Sessions 

Session 2 A: The Role of Independent Power Producers and DREs for Institutions

Description: This session will focus on promoting decentralised renewable energy systems such as micro-grids and mini-grids for institutions

Areas of focus:

  • Business Models for Sustainable Mini-Grid Development in Malawi.
  • Challenges and Opportunities for Off-Grid Energy Providers.
  • Explore existing and emerging financing models suitable for the off-grid sector.

Speakers:

  • Prof. Wales Singini, Mzuzu University
  • Francis Munthali, Northern Region Water Board (NRWB)
  • Rumbani Sidira and Prof. Chomora Mikeka, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Basic & Secondary Education
  • Kjetil Røine, Differ Community Power and Beston Gama, BNG Electrical Contractors
  • Dr Aran Eales, Equal Access Energy / University of Strathclyde[1] [2]


Session 2 B: Advancing Cleaner Cooking: A Deep Dive

Description: This session will delve into the critical need for cleaner cooking solutions, exploring recent advancements in cooking technologies and alternative fuels that reduce household air pollution and deforestation. We will examine the socio-economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to sustainable cooking practices, with a particular focus on their applicability and impact in Malawi.


Areas of focus: 

  • Exploring advancements in improved biomass cookstoves, LPG stoves, electric cookstoves, and other emerging clean cooking technologies.
  • Discussing the viability and scaling of fuels such as bioethanol, biogas, briquettes from agricultural waste, and solar thermal cooking.
  • Examining successful approaches to make cleaner cooking solutions accessible and affordable for households, including innovative financing and distribution models.
  • Discussing the role of government policies, standards, and incentives in accelerating the adoption of clean cooking solutions.
  • Supply Challenges of LPG in the country and the impact on the transition to cleaner cooking

Speakers: 

  • Christa Roth, Cleaner Cooking Coalition
  • Israel Malunga, Bioethanol Researcher
  • Eric Ngomwa, E-Nyasa


Session 2 C: E-Mobility and Emerging Green Technologies: Driving Malawi's Sustainable Future

Description: This session will explore how electric vehicles (E-mobility) and other groundbreaking green technologies, such as green hydrogen, are shaping a sustainable energy future for Malawi. We'll discuss their potential to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, cut emissions, and create new economic opportunities, focusing on their practical application and impact in a Malawian context.

Areas of Focus: 

  •  Status, challenges, and opportunities for electric vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and public transport.
  • Exploring how green hydrogen, produced from renewable energy, can power various sectors, including industry and transportation, and its feasibility in Malawi.
  • What policies are needed to encourage the adoption of these technologies

Speakers 

 

14:00 - 15:30

High-Level Discussion: Tailoring Financing to Energy Projects and Business Models 

Description: This session will explore existing and innovative financing instruments for renewable energy projects in Malawi, including blended finance, green bonds, and carbon finance. It will also discuss de-risking instruments and strategies to enhance the bankability of local SMEs.

Areas of focus:

  • Understanding the landscape of existing financing instruments in Malawi.
  • Case studies of successful blended finance and green bond initiatives in Africa.
  • De-risking Mechanisms for Renewable Energy Investments in Malawi.
  • Promoting local currency financing and mitigating foreign exchange risk.

Speakers:

  • Noel Mkulichi, FDH Bank
  • Priscilla Sani-Chimwele, WALA Ltd
  • Chanda Mulenga, Namene, Solar Industry Association of Zambia (SIAZ)
  • Robert Hana, Africa Sun Energy [1]
  • Mr. Francis Xavier Ochieng, WALA Technical Assistance
 

15:30 - 17:00

Parallel Sessions: Workshops

Workshop 2 D: Accessing and Leveraging Climate Finance for Energy Projects 

Description: This interactive workshop will provide practical guidance on identifying climate finance sources, developing strong climate finance proposals, and integrating climate resilience into project design.

Session Facilitators: Department of Environmental Affairs (Speaker TBC), Eng. Francis Masawi

 

Workshop 2 E: Enhancing the Bankability of Local Energy Projects and SMEs 

Description: A practical workshop focusing on what makes a project or enterprise "bankable" from a financier's perspective, including financial modelling, due diligence, and project structuring.

Session Facilitators: GEAPP, Mr. Francis Xavier Ochieng


Workshop 2 F: The Role of National Energy Associations in Promoting Energy Access and Socio-Economic Development: Southern Africa Working Group

Description: This interactive workshop will focus on how national energy associations can support energy access and socio-economic development. This involves answering questions such as: how energy sector associations are currently operating; the type of support provided to the Government to advance the sector; How coordination with the private sector has been structured to promote energy development.

Contributors:

  • Helena Macume, AMER (Mozambique)
  • Dylan Chewe, ZARENA (Zambia)
  • Brave Mhonie, REIAMA
  • Serge Muhisi, EPD,

Moderator: Collin Gumbu, GOGLA

18:30 - 22:00

Mphamvu Awards Night Gala: African Attire Theme

  • Host: Nicole Kamwendo and Khadija Sungeni Mussa

18:00 - 18:30

Guest Arrival | Guests check in and take their seats.

  • Entertainment – Chivumbulutso Band

18:30 - 18:35

Opening Remarks |Welcome by the event host and a brief introduction of the Dinner and Mphamvu Awards Night

  • Entertainment – Akalichelo Cultural Dance Troupe
  • Entertainment – Beni Cultural Dance Troupe

19:00 - 20:00

Dinner is served

19:15 - 19:20

Sponsor Slot (video)

19:25 - 19:30

Partner Slot

19:40 - 19:50

REIAMA Slot (Video)

19:50 - 20:00

Entertainament - Chivumbulutso Band

20:00 - 20:10

Lifetime Achiever’s Awards 

In recognition of these 2 individuals’ dedication and commitment in contributing to the development of the energy sector in Malawi.

20:10 - 20:15

1. Mphamvu Award For Marketing Star

This award celebrates marketing initiatives in Malawi’s energy sector that have significantly influenced the transition to sustainable energy sources. Open to campaigns across marketing, social media, mainstream media, and awareness-raising efforts, nominees have demonstrated creativity, innovation, and a commitment to impactful energy information dissemination.

20:15 - 20:20

2. Mphamvu  Award For Advancing Clean Cooking Solutions In Malawi

In recognition of Malawi's achievements in the cleaner cooking sector and its role as a Global Champion for Universal Energy Access, this award honours those contributing to the Malawi Energy Compact for Cleaner Cooking. Nominees are working towards eliminating open fires for cooking by 2030 and achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2050.

20:15 - 20:20

3. Mphamvu  Award For Next Level Energizing

Recognising excellence in the Productive Use of Renewable Energy (PURE), this award honours entities that have transformed sectors such as agriculture, health, and informal businesses through innovative energy applications. Special consideration is given to those integrating youth, women, and people with disabilities into scalable, investment-ready PURE models.

20:25 - 20:30

4. Mphamvu  Award For Energy Efficiency Excellence

This award acknowledges collaborative efforts to reduce unsustainable energy consumption and promote greener spaces through energy-saving practices and technologies. Nominees have made strides in improving energy efficiency in various sectors, aligning with both organisational and national policies to achieve sustainable energy usage.

20:30 - 20:35

Sponsor Slot 

20:35 - 20:40

5. Mphamvu  Award For Electrifying Malawi 

This award celebrates initiatives aimed at achieving universal access to reliable, accessible, and affordable electricity by 2030. Nominees have played a vital role in grid and off-grid electrification, energy storage, systems strengthening, and contributing to Malawi’s goal of adding 1000MW to its power generation capacity by 2025

20:40 - 20:45

6. Mphamvu  Award For Innovation in Energy 

This category recognises groundbreaking technological advancements that have pushed the boundaries of sustainable energy in Malawi. Whether through the development of new energy-efficient technologies, innovative energy solutions, or pioneering research or scaling up distribution of renewable energy products, nominees have demonstrated exceptional innovation in the energy sector.

20:45 - 20:50

7. Mphamvu  Award For Sustainable Finance and Environment 

This award honours entities that have made significant contributions to financing sustainable energy projects in Malawi. Nominees have shown leadership in developing financial mechanisms, investment strategies, and funding models that have catalysed the growth and sustainability of the energy sector

20:50 - 20:55

Sponsor Slot

20:55 - 21:10

8. Mphamvu  Award For Best Fuel Stations

(Northern Region, Central Region, Southern Region)

This award recognises the best fuelling stations in the northern region based on their quality of service, proactive responses to periods of fuel supply crises, and their efforts to provide effective and operational organisation as service providers

21:10 - 21:15

Sponsor Slot 

21:15 - 21:20

Live Voting For 9. Mphamvu Female Energy Personality Award

This award recognises female individuals who have become influential voices in the energy sector, driving advocacy, challenging the status quo, and making tangible efforts toward advancing sustainable energy. Nominees have taken innovative steps to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and champion the cause of sustainable energy in Malawi.

21:20 - 21:25

Live Voting for 10. Mphamvu Male Energy Personality Award

This award recognises male individuals who have become influential voices in the energy sector, driving advocacy, challenging the status quo, and making tangible efforts toward advancing sustainable energy. Nominees have taken innovative steps to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and champion the cause of sustainable energy in Malawi.

21:25 - 21:45

Musical Performance – Keturah

21:45 - 21:50

Closing Remarks

21:50 - 22:00

Closeout Perfomance – Chivumbulutso Band

Innovative Business and Financing Mechanisms: Beyond Rhetoric

05:30 - 07:00

Optional Health Activity

08:30 - 09:00

RECAP from Day Two

09:00 - 10:00

High-Level Panel Discussion: Coordinated Approach to Financing Solutions from International Development Partners

Description: This session will explore how international development partners can more effectively coordinate their financing instruments to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness in supporting Malawi's energy sector.

Speakers:

  • Christina Chigwenembe, Energy and Environment Partnership Trust Fund (EEP Africa)
  • Mr. Om Bhandari, World Bank
  • Patrick Brown/Malama Mwila, Equal Rights
  • Collen Zalengera, GEAPP

10:00 - 10:30

Networking Coffee Break 

10:30 - 12:30

Parallel Sessions

Session 3 A: Partnerships and Investment Opportunities in the GRC Countries

Description: This session will feature presentations of concrete investment opportunities in the energy sector of GRC countries and successful energy projects that are ready for scaling up or replication. It will also include partnerships and collaborations in education (collaborative student initiatives), community energy twinning, and research and innovation partnerships.

Presenters:


Session 3 B: Financing Last Mile Distributors: Reaching the Unreachable 

Description: This session will spotlight the critical role of last-mile distributors in bringing renewable energy technologies to underserved communities. Special emphasis will be placed on innovative distribution models, financing mechanisms, and policy support that enable last-mile actors to provide sustainable, affordable, and high-impact energy access in hard-to-reach areas, particularly in Malawi. It will also highlight the role of DSS.

Areas of focus:

  • Enabling last-mile access to renewable energy solutions for agricultural productivity
  • Financing and business models that support affordability and scale at the last mile
  • Addressing supply chain and logistical barriers for last-mile distributors
  • Policy frameworks and incentives that support last-mile delivery

Presenters:

  • Mr. Chindota Tambala,GIZ EnDev
  • Mr. Hope Ntwana, National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF)
  • Mr. Maxime Marion, GGF
  • Ashraf Hossain: Manager, Ngwee Ngwee Ngwee Fund Manager


Session 3 C: Driving Innovation in Renewable Energy for Malawi

Description: This session will spotlight the pivotal role of innovation in expanding renewable energy access across Malawi. It will explore how emerging technologies, creative financing mechanisms, and supportive policies are accelerating the deployment of sustainable and affordable energy solutions.

Areas of focus:

  • The role of innovators and innovation in advancing access to clean energy
  • Supporting and growing innovators
  • Policy frameworks and incentives aimed at innovators

Presenters:

  • Mussa Cardosso, Sun King
  • Kondwani Clement, REACT
  • Joshua John, House Power Bank
  • Daniel Kwizombe, eKalite
 

12:30 - 12:45

Summary of Resolutions and Adoptions

12:45 - 12:55

Closing Remarks and End of Programmes

12:55 - 13:00

Lunch

14:00 - 17:00

Optional CRS

ABOUT US

The National Energy Conference 2025, hosted by the Renewable Energy Industries Association of Malawi (REIAMA), is Malawi’s premier platform for advancing the future of energy. Scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 30th July to Friday, 1st August 2025 at the scenic Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi, this high-impact conference will bring together key stakeholders across the energy sector — from policymakers and private sector leaders to researchers, investors, and international delegates.


 

What Can You Expect

Participants will benefit from:


  • Interactive panels and expert-led discussions
  • Networking with top industry players and policymakers
  • Access to the latest research, projects, and investment opportunities
  • Insights into policies shaping Malawi’s sustainable energy future
  • Whether you're a member, non-member, or international delegate, this is your chance to connect, learn, and contribute to a greener, energy-secure Malawi.
 

OUR CONFERENCE LOCATION

Set on the stunning shores of Lake Malawi, Sunbird Nkopola Lodge offers the perfect setting for the National Energy Conference 2025.

SunBird Nkopola Lodge, Mangochi

Directions & Travel Info

  • From Lilongwe: ~4.5 hours drive via M5 Road
  • From Blantyre: ~2.5 hours drive via M3 Road
  • Shuttle services may be available upon request (please confirm with organizers in advance)


Delegates can book their stay directly with Sunbird Hotels or explore nearby options. Early reservations are highly recommended due to limited availability during the conference period.



conference@reiama.org

+265 899 579 893

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GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Choose a package that suits your participation needs—whether you're attending, showcasing, or supporting the event.

LOCAL MEMBER DELEGATE

Regular Ticket

MK480,000

Choose a package that suits your participation needs—whether you're attending, showcasing, or supporting the event. Each plan offers access to key sessions, networking opportunities, and more.

Access to all general sessions

Access to breakout sessions

Conference materials and program

Lunch and refreshments

LOCAL NON-MEMBER DELEGATE

VIP Ticket

MK580,000

 Each plan offers access to key sessions, networking opportunities, and more.

All features of a standard ticket

Priority seating in all sessions

Access to VIP lounge and networking area

Exclusive Q&A sessions with keynote speakers

VIP dinner with industry experts

Early Bird

INTERNATIONAL MEMBER DELEGATES  (In-Person)

USD 240 

Each plan offers access to key sessions, networking opportunities, and more.

All features of a standard ticket

Priority seating in all sessions

Access to VIP lounge and networking area

Exclusive Q&A sessions with keynote speakers

VIP dinner with industry experts

Early Bird

INTERNATIONAL NON-MEMBER DELEGATE (In-Person)

Regular Ticket

USD 300

Choose a package that suits your participation needs—whether you're attending, showcasing, or supporting the event.

Each plan offers access to key sessions, networking opportunities, and

more.

Access to all general sessions

Access to breakout sessions

Conference materials and program

Lunch and refreshments

INTERNATIONAL MEMBER DELEGATE (Online)

VIP Ticket

USD 120

 Each plan offers access to key sessions, networking opportunities, and more.

All features of a standard ticket

Priority seating in all sessions

Access to VIP lounge and networking area

Exclusive Q&A sessions with keynote speakers

VIP dinner with industry experts

Early Bird

INTERNATIONAL NON-MEMBER DELEGATES (Online)

VIP Ticket

USD 150

Each plan offers access to key sessions, networking opportunities, and more.

All features of a standard ticket

Priority seating in all sessions

Access to VIP lounge and networking area

Exclusive Q&A sessions with keynote speakers

VIP dinner with industry experts

Early Bird

FAQ

The conference is open to all stakeholders in the energy sector, including policymakers, investors, private companies, NGOs, researchers, students, and youth innovators passionate about sustainable energy solutions.

The conference is open to all stakeholders in the energy sector, including policymakers, investors, private companies, NGOs, researchers, students, and youth innovators passionate about sustainable energy solutions.

The conference is open to all stakeholders in the energy sector, including policymakers, investors, private companies, NGOs, researchers, students, and youth innovators passionate about sustainable energy solutions.

The conference is open to all stakeholders in the energy sector, including policymakers, investors, private companies, NGOs, researchers, students, and youth innovators passionate about sustainable energy solutions.

The conference is open to all stakeholders in the energy sector, including policymakers, investors, private companies, NGOs, researchers, students, and youth innovators passionate about sustainable energy solutions.

2025 Mphamvu Awards Voting

Recognizing Excellence. Empowering Change.
Be part of this year’s celebration of innovation, leadership, and impact in Malawi’s renewable energy and sustainability sector. 
The Mphamvu Awards shine a spotlight on the individuals, organizations, and projects driving real transformation nationwide. Vote now for the nominees who inspire you — and help us honor those lighting the way toward a greener, more empowered future.