DISCOVER THE NEW WIA YOUNG LEADERS 2025
This week, we shine the spotlight on Phebe Ilesanmi, a sustainability advocate and Co-Founder of Trashcoin, an eco fintech startup transforming Africa’s informal waste economy into a dignified and inclusive system. From grassroots communities in Nigeria to global stages like COP29 and the UN Summit of the Future, Phebe is on a mission to turn environmental challenges into opportunities for social and economic empowerment.
Can you tell us briefly who you are and what you do?
I’m Phebe Ilesanmi, a sustainability advocate passionate about using innovation to solve deep rooted social and environmental challenges. As Co-Founder and Chief Compliance Officer at Trashcoin, I work to transform Africa’s informal waste economy into a traceable, dignified and inclusive circular system. My work combines legal advocacy, climate action and tech driven solutions to empower underserved communities, especially women and youth, through recycling incentives, digital inclusion and cross border trade.
What exactly inspired you to start your journey or project?
Trashcoin was born out of frustration with broken systems. Growing up in Nigeria, I saw unmanaged plastic waste, children missing school to scavenge recyclables and informal workers risking their health without recognition. I wanted to create a platform that didn’t just clean up the environment but also dignified the people behind it. Trashcoin is my response: a system that turns waste into opportunity, visibility and economic fairness.
What drives your work and vision?
For me, impact begins with courage. “No guts, no glory.” Bold ideas can disrupt broken systems, uplift communities and spark innovation. Through Trashcoin, we are redefining circular economy solutions, empowering women and youth, providing economic incentives and demonstrating that technology can be a force for social and environmental good.
What would you tell young women who want to create impact?
Don’t wait for permission, build anyway. Start where you are, use what you have and grow through what you don’t yet know. Surround yourself with people who see your vision, stay anchored in purpose and remember: your voice is powerful, your story is valid and your leadership is necessary.
What are you currently working on or planning next?
I’m focused on scaling Trashcoin across Africa, expanding recycling operations, deploying AI powered traceability tools and building climate resilient infrastructure for underserved communities. We are forming partnerships to ensure access to health insurance, education and electricity through waste incentives. The next chapter is about deepening impact, unlocking circular trade opportunities and advocating for policies that center informal workers in the green economy.
How to Support: How can people follow or engage with your work?
Official (Trashcoin):
- LinkedIn: Trashcoin
To learn more about Trashcoin and partnership opportunities, visit: https://www.trashcoin.eu