My personal mission is rooted in a commitment to making a positive impact on the world by offering innovative solutions that benefit both people and the planet.
Yewande Adebowale - Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Salubata
2024 WE Empower UN SDG Challenge Finalist, Europe and North America Region
Yewande Adebowale, a pioneering entrepreneur and environmental advocate, is the Co-founder and COO of Salubata. With a background in environmental law, holding both LLB and LLM degrees, Adebowale is deeply committed to leveraging innovation to tackle pressing environmental challenges and promote sustainability within the footwear industry. Her journey is marked by a blend of professional expertise, personal passion, and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Revolutionary innovation at Salubata
Under Adebowale’s leadership, Salubata has made significant strides in transforming the footwear industry. The company has developed two global patents for modular shoes repurposed from plastic waste and a groundbreaking carbon decomposition technology. These innovations not only address the issue of plastic pollution but also contribute to mitigating carbon emissions, showcasing Salubata’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Commitment to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Salubata’s mission aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). The company’s technologies offer sustainable alternatives to traditional footwear manufacturing, effectively reducing plastic pollution and carbon emissions. Additionally, Salubata’s commitment to collaboration and partnership amplifies its impact, driving collective action towards achieving these goals.
Advancing gender equality
Adebowale’s leadership also extends to promoting gender equality. Salubata allocates 5% of its profits to initiatives empowering women in communities affected by plastic pollution and climate change. The company promotes gender diversity within its workforce, ensures women’s representation in leadership roles, and supports women-owned businesses in its supply chain (SDG 5: Gender Equality).
Future vision
Salubata’s achievements under Adebowale’s guidance are noteworthy. The company has generated over $840,000 in revenue and forged a strategic partnership with Amazon, expanding its impact across seven markets. Salubata’s innovative approach has positioned it as a leader in the fight against plastic pollution and climate change, earning industry recognition and acclaim.
Looking ahead, Salubata aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its supply chain, transition to renewable energy sources, and embrace circular economy practices. The company’s vision is to lead the footwear industry towards a more sustainable future, where environmental stewardship and innovation create lasting positive change.
Overall, my personal mission is to drive positive change through innovation and sustainability, guided by a commitment to making a difference in the world and leaving a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations
By Grace Reiter, WE Empower Intern