This Black History Month, the spotlight shines on Black leaders transforming the sustainability landscape. Across industries, these innovators are redefining environmental justice, sustainable development, and equity. From business leaders to global policymakers, their groundbreaking work addresses urgent global challenges while empowering communities. Here are five changemakers making a lasting impact.
Garry Cooper, CEO of Rheaply
1. Garry Cooper Transforms Resource Management
Garry Cooper, co-founder and CEO of Rheaply, revolutionizes the way organizations manage surplus materials. By connecting businesses through Rheaply’s resource-sharing platform, Cooper reduces waste and builds a more efficient circular economy.
Rheaply’s solutions allow companies to meet their sustainability goals while cutting costs and minimizing environmental impact. Cooper’s vision emphasizes collaboration and innovation to combat the global waste crisis.
Felita Harris, Co-founder and Executive Director of Raisefashion
2. Felita Harris Empowers BIPOC Designers
Felita Harris, co-founder and executive director of Raisefashion, helps BIPOC-owned fashion brands thrive in a sustainable market. Harris provides strategic support, including fundraising and development, to create long-term opportunities for underrepresented designers.
Her work fosters economic empowerment and sustainability in the fashion industry, championing both creative and environmental equity.
Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO of Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL)
3. Damilola Ogunbiyi Leads a Global Energy Transition
Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO of Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), brings clean energy solutions to underserved regions worldwide. As a UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy, she advocates for a just energy transition that prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility.
Her initiatives have connected millions of people in Africa to affordable electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Ogunbiyi’s work highlights the importance of equity in addressing global energy challenges.
4. Brittany Sierra Inspires Sustainable Fashion
Brittany Sierra, founder of the Sustainable Fashion Forum
Brittany Sierra, founder of the Sustainable Fashion Forum, challenges conventional fashion practices by promoting sustainable consumption. Through her platform and podcast, Sierra educates brands and consumers on actionable strategies to reduce their environmental footprint.
Her work bridges the gap between awareness and action, emphasizing the need for systemic change in fashion production and consumer behavior.
Sandra C. Chukwudozie, founder and CEO of Salpha Energy
5. Sandra C. Chukwudozie Powers Communities with Solar Energy
Sandra C. Chukwudozie, founder and CEO of Salpha Energy, provides affordable solar power solutions to underserved communities in Nigeria. Her company has connected over 1.5 million people to renewable energy, empowering families and reducing carbon emissions.
Chukwudozie’s leadership demonstrates the potential for scalable, community-focused renewable energy solutions to drive sustainable development globally.
Why These Changemakers Matter
Each of these leaders exemplifies how innovation and equity drive sustainability. Their efforts address critical challenges, from waste reduction to clean energy access, inspiring action across industries. This Black History Month, their contributions underscore the vital role of diverse leadership in building a sustainable and just future. Explore their work, support their initiatives, and learn from their success stories. These changemakers prove that equitable solutions and innovative thinking can create lasting environmental and social impact.
