Kwabena Osei-Sarpong is the founder and CEO of RIFE International, a globally recognized energy-efficiency and sustainability firm. As a visionary entrepreneur and green energy advocate, Osei-Sarpong exemplifies the transformative power of education, innovation, and philanthropy. Osei-Sarpong has made remarkable strides in addressing climate change and fostering economic development across continents.
Born and raised in Ghana, Osei-Sarpong’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged early, influenced by his family’s boutique clothing business. His innovative mindset was evident when he introduced a payment plan system for customers, showcasing his ability to identify and implement practical solutions. This foundation of creativity and problem-solving would later define his career.
Osei-Sarpong’s academic journey began at Radford University in Virginia, where he pursued a Business degree. As an international student, he found a supportive community that nurtured his aspirations. At Radford, he founded the Radford in Free Enterprise (RIFE) chapter of Enactus, a student organization providing consulting services to local businesses. This initiative not only honed his leadership skills but also laid the groundwork for his future company, RIFE International. Kwabena’s academic excellence earned him the Charles McClellan Scholarship for International Students, further solidifying his commitment to education and community impact.
In 2012, Kwabena graduated from Georgetown University’s Real Estate program, focusing on sustainable development. His research on energy efficiency and off-grid infrastructure challenges in Africa underscored his dedication to addressing pressing global issues. He also holds an executive education certificate from Harvard Business School, emphasizing his commitment to continuous learning.
Osei-Sarpong’s professional journey is a testament to his resilience and vision. After graduating from Radford, he joined a Washington, D.C., startup as its first employee, where he played a pivotal role in scaling the company into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. This experience equipped him with the skills and insights needed to establish RIFE International.
Founded on the principles of Real Estate, Infrastructure, Facilities, and Energy, RIFE International has become a leader in green energy solutions. RIFE was established to provide energy solutions that solve critical energy needs while ensuring that buildings and energy systems operate efficiently. The company’s mission is to enhance profitability, growth, and mission fulfillment for clients while positively impacting both private sector businesses and government/public institutions.
RIFE collaborates with its clients at all stages of project development to provide cost-effective and innovative energy solutions that improve both environmental sustainability and financial outcomes. With offices in Maryland, Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa, the company serves an impressive clientele, including the U.S. Department of Energy, University of Maryland, and Smithsonian Institution Museum facilities. Kwabena’s expertise in climate change solutions has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the field. His contributions extend to consulting with the White House Council on Environmental Quality and serving on the U.S. Secretary of Commerce’s Energy Efficiency Advisory Board.
Osei-Sarpong is at the forefront of pioneering energy efficiency and clean energy solutions in the United States and globally. Acknowledged as a “Climate Trailblazer” by the Harvard Business School Climate Symposium, Osei-Sarpong has also received several awards for his work in sustainability including the Apex Power 30 under 30, Washington Business Journal’s 40 under 40, Association of Energy Engineers – Energy Innovator of the Year, Maryland Business Adapts Honoree, Global Leadership Award in Customer Excellence – JCI, Top 100 MBE in the U.S, Radford University Outstanding Alumnus 2021, among others. These recognitions highlight his commitment to excellence and innovation in the green energy sector.
His dedication to social responsibility is evident in his philanthropic endeavors. Through RIFE International, he has spearheaded initiatives that provide opportunities to underserved communities. Notably, his team in Ghana installed solar panels for a school, ensuring reliable power for students and staff. The company also supports the Street Children Project in Ghana, which provides educational materials to vulnerable children.
As an executive coach with the Skinner Leadership Institute, Kwabena mentors aspiring leaders, emphasizing the importance of values-driven leadership. His involvement with organizations such as Enactus and the Maryland Clean Energy Council further demonstrates his commitment to fostering positive change.
Kwabena’s lifestyle reflects his values of innovation, sustainability, and community. He balances his professional responsibilities with a deep commitment to family and personal growth. His journey from Ghana to the United States and back to Africa symbolizes his vision of creating a global impact while staying rooted in his heritage.
Kwabena Osei-Sarpong’s journey from an international student to a global leader in green energy and infrastructure development is an inspiring story of resilience, vision, and commitment to making a lasting impact. His ability to merge business with sustainability has positioned him as a key figure in the fight against climate change and in efforts to expand access to clean energy solutions worldwide.
Osei-Sarpong’s vision for a sustainable future continues to drive his efforts, making him a true trailblazer in the fight against climate change and a champion for sustainable economic development.