Growing up in Marikana, Refilwe witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of energy poverty—cold mornings, suffocating smoke, and lost opportunities. Her grandmother’s resilience taught her that energy access is not just about convenience; it’s about dignity, economic empowerment, and survival. In this TEDx Talk, she shares how clean cooking solutions are not only transforming lives but also creating economic opportunities—especially for women. When we empower women, we empower entire communities. It’s time to stop just lighting stoves and start lighting futures. Refilwe is also contributing to the country’s shift towards more sustainable practices, aligning with global environmental goals. Her work addresses two key areas that are crucial for the country’s future: job creation and energy sustainability. By providing affordable energy solutions to underserved communities, she’s helping families save money while also reducing their reliance on traditional electricity sources, which can be both expensive and unreliable. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx