Yves co-founded Assorted Energies International, an organisation that aims to address
electricity shortages in Zimbabwe by providing sustainable solar energy solutions.
The initiative started in 2019 while Yves was a final-year Fuel Engineering student
studying through UNHCR-funded education support. Growing up as a refugee in
Tongogara Refugee Camp in Zimbabwe, he experienced first-hand the challenges of
living without access to electricity. The project focused on community education around
clean energy technologies, installing solar systems at two youth community centres, and
supporting a transformation and innovation hub powered by solar energy.
To date, the project has impacted more than 1,000 refugees in Tongogara Refugee Camp.
More than 100 refugees received training in renewable energy technologies, while 60
solar lighting kits were distributed to elderly people and individuals living with disabilities.
Through improved access to electricity, more than 300 students have been able to study
at night, and 450 young people have benefited from professional development,
entrepreneurship support, and assistance in accessing international funding
opportunities. The project was implemented with funding support from UNHCR.
Yves attended the 2024 Summit in Montréal. During the Summit, he spoke on a Delegate
panel, an experience that strengthened his confidence and motivated him to continue
creating change within refugee communities. As he reflected after the Summit, seeing
others recognise the impact of the project reinforced his belief in its value and inspired
him to create even greater impact. He also built lasting relationships with his sponsor
and fellow Ambassadors.
“After attending the Summit, I realised that people liked our project and the impact we were creating. Knowing that our work was making a real difference motivated me to continue and create even more impact within my community.”
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