To mark the UN International Day of Zero Waste, we’re shining the spotlight on Ijeoma Okochi-Agwu, a sustainability advocate who has been empowering young people—especially girls—through creative expression and climate-conscious fashion practices.

Since 2018, Ijeoma has partnered with 10 government and community schools in Abuja, facilitating 20 hands-on workshops that have trained over 50 students in sustainable fashion and upcycling. These workshops go beyond creativity; they provide a platform for young minds to explore climate change, textile waste, and the power of personal action in building a greener future.

One of her most impactful contributions has been the upcycling of over 50kg of discarded clothing, transforming what would have been waste into functional, stylish pieces. Students have created practical items such as tote bags and lunch bags made from discarded curtains, as well as reworked garments that breathe new life into old fabrics. Each creation stands as a testament to resourcefulness, innovation, and the potential for sustainable change—proving that discarded materials can be repurposed into something beautiful and useful.

Beyond the tangible products, Ijeoma’s workshops instill a lasting sense of responsibility and environmental consciousness in her students. By showing them the creative potential of upcycling, she equips them with skills that extend beyond fashion—fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and an awareness of their role in global sustainability efforts.

Through her work, Ijeoma Okochi-Agwu continues to inspire a new generation to rethink waste, embrace sustainability, and take meaningful action toward a greener future. Her initiatives prove that small, intentional actions—when multiplied—can create a significant environmental impact.