Sahara Group Shines as Lucciano-Gabriel, Sorinola Named in African Energy Chamber’s ‘20 Under 40’ Rising Stars

It’s all jubilation as Sahara Group’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has gotten continental recognition.

The group is celebrating a landmark recognition as two of its executives join the African Energy Chamber’s 2025 “20 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars” list, spotlighting women whose leadership is reshaping Africa’s energy sector.

Mariah Lucciano-Gabriel, Head of Integrated Gas Ventures at Asharami Energy, and Yetunde Sorinola, Chief Financial Officer of Egbin Power Plc, were named among the continent’s emerging voices of impact. Their recognition comes at a pivotal moment, as Africa’s energy industry balances the challenge of expanding power access with advancing a just energy transition.

The “20 Under 40” list amplifies the global spotlight on African women leaders, underscoring their role in driving innovation and resilience across oil, gas, and renewables.

Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, Executive Director at Sahara Group, said the achievement reflects Sahara’s commitment to developing talent that can compete globally while serving communities responsibly.

“Mariah and Yetunde embody the Sahara spirit of resilience, innovation, and excellence. Their achievements demonstrate our commitment to Making A Difference by nurturing talent that can thrive on the global stage while bringing energy to life responsibly for communities across the continent and the globe,” she said.

Bethel Obioma, Head of Corporate Communications, noted that the recognition validates Sahara’s people-centered strategy.

“At Sahara, our people strategy is centered on growing expertise and giving our employees platforms to express their abilities maximally, both within and outside the workplace. Our core values of being disruptively creative and ambidextrous empower every member of our team to harness their potential, drive innovation, and deliver impact that transcends borders,” he said.

For Lucciano-Gabriel, whose leadership has accelerated Sahara’s midstream gas portfolio, the recognition affirms Africa’s growing influence in shaping energy solutions.

“Being named among such a dynamic cohort of women is a powerful reminder that Africa has the talent and vision to lead global energy conversations,” she said. “This recognition inspires me to keep pushing boundaries, driving innovative gas solutions that can fuel inclusive growth.”

Sorinola, who oversees finance operations at Africa’s largest privately-owned thermal power plant, Egbin Power, dedicated the honor to her wider team.

“This honor belongs to the entire Egbin and Sahara team whose collective drive makes our work possible,” she noted. “We know that reliable power is the bedrock of economic progress and community empowerment, and our focus at Sahara remains on championing financial governance, sustainability, and mentoring the next generation of leaders who will power Africa’s future.”

African Energy Chamber Executive Chairman, NJ Ayuk, highlighted the broader impact of such recognition.

“These women are not only recognized for their amazing careers, but for their work and commitment across their respective communities. This is what happens when women are given opportunities to lead in the industry; going beyond executing their jobs to championing communities and mentoring others to become part of the larger African energy family.”

Operating across more than 42 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, Sahara Group continues to champion equitable career growth and diversity, powered by its 5,000-strong workforce committed to “Making A Difference” and bringing energy to life responsibly.