Lye Ogunsanya
Lye Ogunsanya is a dynamic professional with extensive experience in dual-use technology and humanitarian sectors. He is a US State Department IVLP alumnus, a former mobile telecommunications executive, and a UNICEF Champion for Children Awardee. Recognized for his contributions to society and Irish-USA relations, he was honored with the Ireland United States Alumni Association (IUSA) Emerging Leader award in 2022.
Lye holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Climate Entrepreneurship from Trinity College Dublin and a BSc in Marketing, Innovation & Technology from Dublin City University. He has held notable positions including Portfolio Manager EMEA at The One Foundation and CEO of Dídean. At Dídean, he significantly influenced the Irish government’s accommodation policy for refugees and international protection applicants.
Lye has led numerous transformative projects across the EMEA region. His work with UNICEF includes developing innovative programs for families and youth in refugee camps along the Syria/Lebanon and Syria/Jordan borders. These initiatives, focused on health, education, and youth development, earned him UNICEF’s Champion for Children Award in 2018.
In the East of Africa, Malawi, Lye worked collaboratively towards the establishment of Africa’s First Humanitarian Drone and Data Academy in 2019, aimed at preparing graduates for the emerging smart workforce sector and reducing migration at the source. His aerial innovation intervention program in the Mediterranean saved hundreds of lives during the migrant crisis between Libya and Italy. He recently 2024 deployed a fully decarbonised situational awareness single-infrastructure in the West of Africa.
Lye serves on the boards of Temple Bar Galleries + Studios Dublin, World Vision Ireland, Headfort School in Meath, and the Ireland United States Alumni Association. Currently, he is focused on harnessing the power of AI and climate technology to promote circularity, safety, and to democratise decarbonisation efforts.
Lye Ogunsanya’s collaborative approach and innovative mindset have positioned him as a leading advocate for integrating technology and humanitarian efforts, making significant strides in sustainable urban development and global humanitarian response.