Alice Chun’s path to becoming an innovator in humanitarian design began with a powerful moment. She saw a family at the end of an alley, using a kerosene jug for light, which filled the air with harmful smoke. This sight inspired her to create solutions that could address health, environmental, and poverty issues simultaneously. Alice’s commitment to creating meaningful change led her to develop the SolarPuff™, a groundbreaking solar light that offers a simple solution to these complex problems.
Alice’s early life in Seoul, Korea, and later in upstate New York, was filled with creative pursuits. Her mother taught her the art of origami and sewing, sparking a lifelong interest in design and structure. She pursued this passion academically, earning an architecture degree from Penn State and a Master’s in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania. Her son’s asthma diagnosis further fueled her interest in sustainable energy solutions, particularly those harnessing solar power.
During her tenure as a Professor of Architecture and Material Technology at Columbia University, Alice began experimenting with solar lights. Her innovative approach led to the invention of the SolarPuff™, the only self-inflatable, portable solar light. This light can be inflated without using a mouth nozzle, ensuring a hygienic method of use. Following extensive field testing in Haiti, Alice launched Solight Design via a successful KickStarter campaign in 2015. Her efforts earned her the US Patent Award for Humanity, and her products were showcased at MOMA in New York City.
Alice Chun’s influence extends beyond invention; she is an author, TedX speaker, and advocate for social justice. Her company, Solight Design, has been recognized by Popular Mechanics, Fast Company, and Forbes, among others. She has appeared on The View, Tamron Hall, Good Morning America, and MSNBC. Alice was also featured in Forbes’ 50 Over 50 list in 2022 and starred in the Apple TV+ show ‘Gutsy’.
Alice’s humanitarian work spans numerous countries, including Afghanistan, the Bahamas, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Dominica, Ecuador, Ghana, Haiti, Mozambique, Nepal, Puerto Rico, Senegal, Syria, Turkey, Ukraine, and Venezuela. She continues to highlight the importance of sustainable and innovative solutions to global challenges.
Alice Chun’s dedication to innovation and humanitarian work continues to light the way, providing hope and sustainable solutions to communities around the world. Her pioneering invention, the SolarPuff, exemplifies her commitment to addressing pressing global issues such as health, environmental sustainability, and poverty. The SolarPuff is not only a practical solution for those living without reliable access to electricity, but it also embodies Chun’s innovative spirit and deep compassion for those in need.
In addition to her invention’s practical applications, Chun’s influence can be seen in her advocacy for social justice and her work with organizations dedicated to improving living conditions in developing countries. Her humanitarian missions have taken her to countries such as Haiti, Nepal, and Puerto Rico, where she has worked tirelessly to provide sustainable lighting solutions to communities in need. Chun’s holistic approach to innovation—combining technology, design, and social responsibility—serves as a powerful model for how businesses can contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing issues.
Alice Chun’s ongoing efforts continue to illuminate pathways to a more sustainable and equitable future, demonstrating that with innovation and compassion, it is possible to make a tangible difference in the world. Her work remains a beacon of hope, proving that dedicated individuals can drive meaningful change and empower communities through sustainable solutions.
Published by: Martin De Juan
