"With sheer willpower and an unyielding spirit, I set out to overcome every obstacle in my path."

Afola Lawal is a graduate student at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability, focusing on Environmental Justice and Sustainable Development. With over 15 years of experience working in compliance, operations, and business management across Nigeria and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, her career reflects a commitment to addressing the environmental and social inequities that impact resource-rich regions, particularly in Africa.

When Afola’s daughter Adeola was born, she was determined to provide a better life for her. Despite the difficulties of balancing motherhood with her studies and career, Afola enrolled in evening classes, often studying late into the night after spending the day caring for Adeola. She actively pursued scholarships, part-time jobs, and sought community support to ensure she could continue her education while also providing for her daughter. Reflecting on her journey, Afola said, “With sheer willpower and an unyielding spirit, I set out to overcome every obstacle in my path.” Her perseverance not only allowed her to excel but also served as an inspiration to Adeola, who graduated from high school with honors.

Afola’s graduate research describes the complexities of sustainable resource extraction in the Democratic Republic of Congo and uncovers the hidden costs of clean energy on communities affected by conflict and exploitation. Afola aims to translate her findings into actionable policies that prioritize both environmental preservation and social well-being. One of Afola’s professors describes her as “an intelligent, motivated, and passionate student” who is “guided by her personal values of social justice.”

Afola is dedicated to advocating for the active participation of Nigerian women in politics and social change. Through her activism, she has worked tirelessly to elevate the voices of marginalized women, challenging systemic barriers and fighting for their rights.

CEW+ celebrates Afola’s persistence and names her a Margaret Dow Towsley Scholar.