Charlot Magayi is one of Kenya's most inspiring innovators of 2025, breaking barriers to make a lasting impact on the climate.
Her work has transformed her personal tragedy into a continental mission to protect millions of families.
Raised in Nairobi’s Mukuru slums, Charlot became a mother at 16 and initially sold charcoal to earn a living.
The turning point came when her toddler suffered severe burns from a traditional stove, pushing her to rethink how households cook and how women and children can be protected from toxic indoor smoke.
In 2017, she founded Mukuru Clean Stoves, a social enterprise that produces affordable, clean-burning cookstoves made from recycled metal.
Her leadership has propelled the enterprise to continental and global prominence. In 2022, Charlot won the prestigious Earthshot Prize, and in 2024 she earned the nickname “Queen of Africa” from Prince William, highlighting her growing influence in global climate and public-health discussions.
In 2025, she was feted with the Brand Influencer of the Year award under Africa Best of the Year 2025 by Ranks Africa.