From Be-MINT Graduate to Solar Engineer and Operations Strategist: Oluwapelumi Jennifer Oyetade’s Inspiring Journey
At just 17 years old, Oluwapelumi Jennifer Oyetade, an alumni of the Be-MINT program, has already achieved a remarkable blend of professional milestones, volunteer efforts, and academic exploration. Her journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and the invaluable foundation provided by Be-MINT.
Oluwapelumi’s experience with Be-MINT was nothing short of transformative. The program equipped her with critical leadership, technical, and soft skills while instilling a passion for giving back to her community. Notably, she was recognized as the Best Female in her Batch, a well-deserved honor that boosted her confidence and reinforced her dedication to excellence. This accolade also strengthened her profile as a leader in male-dominated fields like tech and engineering.
“As a Multipotentialite, my journey after Be-MINT is an intersection of learning, exploring, growing, and discovering,” Oluwapelumi shares.
Shortly after completing the Be-MINT program, Oluwapelumi’s curiosity led her to apply for a role at Reds and Greens Agricultural Products Limited, which she discovered through the Be-MINT alumni network. Impressively, she interviewed with the company’s CEO and was offered the position of Operations Trainee.
Driven by an interest in sustainability and green energy, Oluwapelumi participated in the USAID/Power Africa Program for Women, a rigorous training initiative aimed at certifying female Solar Installation Engineers. Selected among 30 women in Lagos, Oluwapelumi not only excelled but also became the youngest participant in her cohort.
Her dedication culminated in successfully passing the prestigious Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) certification exam with a score of 78%, earning her the title of Solar Installation Engineer—all at the age of 17.
“Being the youngest in the cohort taught me that age is not a barrier to success. The experience was both eye-opening and incredibly fulfilling,” she says.
Oluwapelumi’s journey also reflects her commitment to giving back. Inspired by lessons from Be-MINT, she became a volunteer with both the Lagos Food Bank and Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), using her time and resources to make a difference in her community.
In October 2023, Oluwapelumi participated in the PAVE Gap Year Program, designed for students taking a gap year to effect positive change in their communities. As part of Team Aabiyamo, she worked as a Business Strategist, devising innovative solutions to modern maternity challenges.
In addition to her technical achievements, Oluwapelumi became a Girl in Bloom Global Ambassador, a role that empowers her to inspire and support young girls to thrive. She is also currently working as a Social Media Intern at The Bloom Africa, where she leverages her creativity and communication skills to contribute to the organization’s mission of empowering African youth.
Oluwapelumi’s journey has only just begun. Her achievements—from excelling as a Solar Engineer to thriving in her Operations Trainee role—are stepping stones toward even greater aspirations. She credits Be-MINT for shaping her confidence, curiosity, and readiness to embrace opportunities.
“The aftermath of the program feels like another dose of Be-MINT itself, continually enriching my professional journey,” she reflects with gratitude.
Her journey is a shining example of how Be-MINT continues to empower young talents, preparing them to lead and innovate in a rapidly evolving world.