Meet Babatunde Bale, Winner, YouthGive Contest 2024

Babatunde Bale, co-founder of The R.E.T.I.N.A Initiative, is a visionary leader revolutionizing access to eye care in underserved communities across Nigeria. With a relentless passion for tackling preventable blindness, Babatunde has spearheaded innovative solutions such as Nigeria’s First Aid Eye Kit and led 15 impactful health projects that have transformed the lives of over 12,000 individuals.

Babatunde’s flagship project, Vision Without Borders, brought hope to the Makoko community, a marginalized slum in Lagos. For the first time, over 400 residents received eye screenings, prescription glasses, and life-changing surgeries. 

His efforts restored not just sight but dignity and opportunities, proving that generosity and innovation can empower lives and transform communities.

As the winner of the YouthGive Contest, Babatunde Bale embodies resilience, purpose, and the boundless potential of African youth. His journey is a shining example of how bold ideas, coupled with a generous heart, can create ripples of change that transcend borders.

“Restoring sight is more than just a medical act; it’s restoring hope, dignity, and opportunity. I’ve seen firsthand how a single act of kindness can empower entire communities.”

Babatunde Bale