Education is often described as the key to unlocking the future, and few people embody this belief as passionately as Zuriel Oduwole. At just 22 years old, this Nigerian-American filmmaker, journalist, and education advocate has captured the world’s attention with her dedication to empowering girls through education. Her Nobel Peace Prize nomination in 2025 is a testament to the extraordinary impact she has made on global education and gender equality.
In this blog post, we take a deep dive into Zuriel’s life, including her family background, advocacy work, and the journey that led her to this prestigious recognition.
Who is Zuriel Oduwole?
Zuriel Oduwole is a Nigerian-American education advocate, filmmaker, and public speaker known for her work in promoting girls’ education and empowerment. She gained international recognition for her documentaries and interviews with world leaders, focusing on the importance of educating young girls, particularly in Africa and the Caribbean.
Her advocacy has led her to meet and engage with heads of state, policymakers, and global influencers, making her one of the youngest voices for change in international education.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Parents and Family Background
Zuriel was born in Los Angeles, California, to a Nigerian father and a Mauritian mother. Her diverse cultural background has played a significant role in shaping her global perspective and passion for education.
- Her father, originally from Nigeria, instilled in her a deep appreciation for her African heritage and the importance of resilience and ambition.
- Her mother, from Mauritius, contributed to her understanding of multiculturalism and empathy, encouraging her to embrace diversity and inclusivity in her advocacy work.
Zuriel often credits her parents for their unwavering support in her journey, encouraging her to pursue her dreams from a young age.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Birthday and Age
Born in 2002, Zuriel Oduwole celebrated her 22nd birthday in 2024. Despite her young age, she has accomplished more than many people do in a lifetime. Her journey demonstrates that age is no barrier to making a difference in the world.
Her early start in activism and filmmaking has positioned her as a trailblazer for young changemakers worldwide.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Zuriel’s passion for education and storytelling emerged at a young age. Her journey into advocacy began when she participated in a school competition on revolutions. Unlike her peers, who chose well-known historical events, Zuriel focused on Africa’s political landscape, showcasing her deep interest in global affairs.
This experience sparked her curiosity about the power of media and education in shaping societies, leading her to explore documentary filmmaking as a tool for change.
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By the age of 12, Zuriel had already made a name for herself, interviewing African leaders and advocating for girls’ education. Some of the notable figures she has interviewed include:
- Former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete
- Former Ghanaian President John Mahama
- Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan
Her ability to engage with global leaders on serious educational issues earned her international recognition and respect.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Advocacy for Girls’ Education
Zuriel is best known for her “Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up” initiative, which focuses on inspiring young girls to pursue education and break societal barriers.
Her initiative has impacted thousands of students across Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond. She has worked directly with governments and policymakers to implement policies that:
✔ Increase access to quality education for girls
✔ Promote gender equality in schools
✔ Encourage leadership opportunities for young women
Her work has been instrumental in raising awareness about child marriage, gender inequality, and barriers to education, particularly in developing countries.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Filmmaking and Global Influence
Zuriel has used documentary filmmaking as a powerful medium to tell the stories of girls fighting for education. Her films have been featured at various international screenings, further amplifying her message to a global audience.
Through her storytelling, she has successfully humanized educational challenges, bringing them to the attention of policymakers, activists, and global organizations.
Zuriel has been featured in major media outlets like Forbes and CNN. Others include:
- BBC
- TIME Magazine
By combining journalism, filmmaking, and advocacy, Zuriel has created a unique and impactful platform that continues to inspire change.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Nobel Peace Prize Nomination
In early 2025, Zuriel was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her tireless efforts in promoting peace, education, and gender equality.
Her nomination was backed by:
- A professor from the University of Southern California
- A Nigerian senator
- Various global organizations advocating for girls’ education
This nomination not only honors her past achievements but also highlights the global impact of her work. It serves as a powerful message that youth-led initiatives can play a crucial role in solving world problems.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Recognition and Achievements
Over the years, Zuriel has received numerous awards and accolades for her groundbreaking work. Some of her notable achievements include:
🏆 Featured in Forbes at Age 10 – Highlighted as one of the youngest education advocates in the world.
🏆 Named in ELLE Magazine’s “33 Women Who Changed the World” – Recognized for her contributions to global education.
🏆 Honored by the U.S. Secretary of State in 2017 – Acknowledged for her efforts against child marriage.
🏆 Youngest Person to Meet and Interview African Presidents – Conducted high-profile interviews with influential leaders.
Her influence extends beyond recognition, as she continues to inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Zuriel Oduwole’s Future Goals and Aspirations
Despite her already impressive achievements, Zuriel remains committed to expanding her educational advocacy efforts. Her future plans include:
✔ Establishing schools that focus on leadership, creativity, and critical thinking.
✔ Partnering with international organizations to fund educational initiatives in underprivileged communities.
✔ Expanding her filmmaking projects to raise awareness about other social issues affecting young girls.
Zuriel’s vision is clear: to create a world where every girl has access to quality education and equal opportunities.
A Role Model for the Next Generation
Zuriel Oduwole is not just an education advocate—she is a symbol of hope, determination, and the power of youth activism. Her 22 years of life have been dedicated to a cause that has the potential to change the world.
Her Nobel Peace Prize nomination is a recognition of her extraordinary contributions, but it is also a call to action for global leaders, organizations, and individuals to support girls’ education.
In a world where young voices are often overlooked, Zuriel Oduwole proves that age is no barrier to creating meaningful change.
As she continues her journey, one thing is certain: Zuriel Oduwole is a force to be reckoned with, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.
What Can We Learn from Zuriel Oduwole?
✔ Education is a powerful tool for change.
✔ Youth activism can influence global policies.
✔ Storytelling and media can amplify important issues.
✔ Passion and dedication can break barriers, regardless of age.
FAQ about Zuriel Oduwole, Nigerian-American advocate.
Q1: Who are Zuriel Oduwole’s parents?
Zuriel Oduwole’s father is Nigerian, and her mother is Mauritian. Their diverse cultural backgrounds have greatly influenced her global education advocacy.
Q2: What is Zuriel Oduwole’s age?
Zuriel Oduwole was born in 2002, making her 22 years old as of 2024.
Q3: Why was Zuriel Oduwole nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize?
She was nominated in 2025 for her advocacy in girls’ education and gender equality, making her one of the youngest Nobel Peace Prize nominees in history.
If you’ve been inspired by Zuriel’s story, share this blog post and spread the message of education and empowerment!
