Summer Okibe

Writer, Lawyer

Non-fiction

Summer Okibe

Summer Okibe is an author, environmental and regulatory lawyer, and energy and climate policy specialist based in Canada. She is the author of The Rights of Indigenous Peoples Explained, a timely and accessible work that unpacks complex legal and human rights frameworks for global audiences. Alongside her writing, Summer is a doctoral researcher and a strong advocate for inclusive and sustainable development. She combines academic rigour with grassroots impact, having secured over $400,000 in scholarships and disbursed funds to support less-privileged children across Nigeria. Her work consistently bridges policy, education, and social justice. Summer is currently developing Aderayah Academy, a vision for a tuition-free, solar-powered school in Enugu designed to provide underserved children with access to quality education. She also recently launched a ₦500,000 annual prize for outstanding female law graduates at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), reinforcing her commitment to equity and mentorship. Her international engagement includes serving as the UNFCCC YOUNGO Energy Working Group Delegate at the 2025 UN ECOSOC Youth Forum, the International Youth Conference, and the World Bank Group Youth Summit. She has also been nominated to attend and contribute at UN SB62, the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), and the Canadian Diplomat platform. In addition, she has trained youths and emerging climate leaders in climate policy research and writing through the EcoChampion’s Climate Education Fellowship. Recognised with honours such as the Flight 302 Legacy Award and JCI Top 100 Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria, Summer’s leadership continues to inspire young people across the continent. She has led initiatives advancing healthcare access for vulnerable children and families, and spearheaded youth-focused projects including the Environmental & Climate Change Spelling Bee Competition and the Keep Your Environment Clean Project. A mentor to over 2,000 African students and young professionals, Summer has supported many in securing global education opportunities, scholarships, and leadership placements. Her book, The Rights of Indigenous Peoples Explained, is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Rights-Indigenous-Peoples-Explained/dp/1738699315

MASTERCLASS

Title: Accessing Global Scholarships, Grants & Opportunities

A Practical Guide for African Writers

In this session, Summer Okibe will demystify how African writers and creatives can access global scholarships, grants, fellowships, and funded opportunities. Drawing from her personal experience securing over $400,000 in scholarships and navigating international institutions, Summer will break down what actually works and what doesn’t. Attendees will learn how to identify legitimate opportunities, assess eligibility, and position themselves competitively through strong applications, statements, and proposals. The session will also explore how writing skills can be leveraged beyond literary spaces to unlock funding, education, and leadership opportunities globally.