Honoring Jenny Irvine-Halliday: A True Pioneer Who Lit Up the World
At Light Up the World, our story begins not only with Dr. Dave Irvine-Halliday’s vision, but also with the unwavering dedication of his wife and co-founder, Jennifer “Jenny” Irvine-Halliday.
LUTW wouldn't have been possible without Jenny.
In 1997, Jenny stood side-by-side with Dr. Dave to establish the first organization in the world to bring LED lighting to developing countries. From the start, she was more than a co-founder, she was the catalyst that helped LUTW grow into what it is today. It was Jenny who first spotted the Rolex Award for Enterprise in a magazine, encouraging Dave to apply. That recognition became a turning point, giving LUTW the early credibility, visibility, and support it needed to expand globally.
Jenny’s journey was one of compassion, service, and creativity. A nurse and midwife by training, she spent her life helping others across continents, from Scotland, to Australia, and eventually back to Canada. Her career was diverse, but her calling was constant: to serve and uplift those around her.
Her creativity was boundless. Whether through painting, spinning, weaving, knitting, or embroidery, Jenny’s hands were rarely still, and her artistry reflected her generous spirit. Her belief that “education is everything” guided her work with LUTW, as she saw firsthand how light could transform children’s futures by allowing them to study after sunset.
Jenny’s impact stretched far beyond the technical side of bringing light to communities. She embodied empathy, curiosity, and the power of human connection. To know her was to feel truly seen and supported. She built not just an organization, but a culture of kindness and vision that continues to guide LUTW’s mission nearly three decades later.
Today, as we carry forward the work she helped ignite, we remember Jenny not only as a co-founder, but as a pioneer who lit up lives with compassion, creativity, and courage. Her legacy is alive in every school child who studies by solar light, every health clinic powered by renewable energy, and every community that finds hope in light.
Jenny truly lit up the world while she was here, and she continues to inspire us to do the same.
As we carry forward the mission she helped ignite, we invite you to honor Jenny’s memory by supporting LUTW. Your contribution helps us continue bringing light, education, and opportunity to the communities she cared so deeply about.
Finally, we are also planning a gathering in February to celebrate Jenny’s life and legacy. We will share more details about this gathering in the coming months, and warmly welcome all who may wish to join us in remembering Jenny and honoring her legacy.
LUTW's History and How We Got Started
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October 12, 1944 - August 24, 2025
