My name is Lehiowo Onah, and I’m currently an undergraduate student studying Accounting at the University of Calabar, Nigeria. With a deep interest in supporting busy professionals and handling administrative tasks, I found myself drawn into the world of Virtual Assistance. This passion eventually led me to an incredible opportunity as an Executive Support Constellation Fellow at Solar Sister, made possible through the Global Warming Mitigation Project.
From the outset, working with Solar Sister has been an incredible experience. This remarkable organization empowers women in last-mile communities across Sub-Saharan Africa by providing clean energy products and the training to run their own businesses. Their work not only fosters economic independence but also helps reduce reliance on harmful fuels, tackling both poverty and climate change at once.
As a Constellation Fellow, I had the opportunity to support Solar Sister’s executive and strategic operations. Some of my key responsibilities during the internship included:
Assisting the CEO with executive-level support and administrative coordination.
Supporting the development of Solar Sister’s five-year strategic plan.
Assisting in the preparations for the May Board Meeting.
Conducting research on tools and software suitable for employee performance management.
Updating and refining the organization’s structural chart.
These tasks were both challenging and exciting. They allowed me to stretch beyond my comfort zone, gain practical experience, and contribute meaningfully to a mission I believe in.
This internship offered more than just professional development—it gave me the chance to connect with some of the most kind, intelligent, and passionate people I’ve ever met. I learned how collaborative teams operate in a remote-first environment, explored digital tools that streamline organizational processes, and gained a better understanding of what a healthy, mission-driven work culture looks like. Most importantly, I learned how impactful well-structured support and clear strategy can be in scaling social impact initiatives.
One thing I deeply admired at Solar Sister was their commitment to creating a truly supportive work environment. Everyone’s voice was heard, and collaboration across roles felt natural and encouraged. I believe other organizations could benefit from adopting this inclusive and empowering culture—it not only boosts team morale but also drives more meaningful impact.
I am truly honored to have been a part of Solar Sister. It’s an organization that not only lights up homes but also ignites hope, ambition, and financial freedom in the lives of women across Africa. I hope they continue to thrive, expand their impact, and inspire others to join the mission of building a greener, healthier, and more equitable world.