As an aspiring renewable energy enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the transformative power of clean energy solutions. But the journey to a sustainable energy future isn’t always a straight path – it requires dedicated individuals and strong communities to lead the way. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the inspiring work of the Caribbean-based Women in Renewable Energy (WIRE) Network and their incredible mentorship program.
Empowering Women, Powering Change
The energy sector has long been a male-dominated field, and the Caribbean is no exception. Young girls are often discouraged from pursuing careers in science, technology, and engineering, depriving the industry of valuable perspectives and talent. However, a group of passionate and determined women are working to change that narrative.
The WIRE Network is on a mission to advocate for increased gender equality across the clean energy sector – from government agencies and utilities to regulatory bodies and the private sector. Their ultimate goal? To see more women represented in the C-suites and boardrooms, driving the renewable energy revolution.
One of the ways the WIRE Network is achieving this is through its two-year mentorship program. Each year, they select 12 women to be paired with senior leaders in the clean energy industry, providing them with invaluable guidance and support.
Mentorship Unlocks Potential
Meet Indra Haraksingh, a visionary educator and a driving force behind the development of the Master of Science in Renewable Energy Technology (MScRET) program at the University of the West Indies. Based in Trinidad and Tobago, Haraksingh is a senior mentor in the WIRE Network’s mentorship program, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with the next generation of clean energy leaders.
Haraksingh’s commitment to mentorship stems from her deep understanding of the critical role it plays in shaping careers and building confidence. “Mentorship is crucial to building interest and confidence in students to pursue careers in renewable energy,” she explains. As the president of the Caribbean Solar Energy Society and a lecturer in the Department of Physics, Haraksingh has seen firsthand the transformative power of education and collaboration in addressing the region’s energy challenges.
Overcoming Barriers, Embracing Opportunities
Another inspiring story comes from Sheena Gosine, a sustainable energy analyst at the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries in Trinidad and Tobago. Gosine was initially hesitant to enter the energy industry as a woman, but the WIRE mentorship program has been a “transformative experience” for her.
“The power of collaborating with like-minded women and gaining a true appreciation for my place in the energy space has been invaluable,” Gosine shares. Through the WIRE program, she has gained a deeper understanding of the collective goal of working towards gender equity in the Caribbean energy sector, finding solace in the fact that she’s not alone in facing certain adversities and challenges.
Gosine’s journey is a testament to the power of mentorship and networking in empowering women in the energy sector. She encourages others to lean into their communities for growth and support, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Driving Sustainable Change, Inspiring the Next Generation
Niebert Blair, the energy and transport coordinator with GIZ, is another shining example of the impact of the WIRE Network’s mentorship program. Blair is passionate about electrifying transportation and the delivery of goods, recognizing the immediate benefits of vehicle electrification in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Blair’s work has been instrumental in advancing the implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in the Caribbean region, helping countries establish energy, transport, and e-mobility strategies and policies. However, she acknowledges that more needs to be done to accelerate the pace of change required for a sustainable future.
“The drive and passion I have for the transition is embodied in my current work with GIZ in the region,” Blair shares. The WIRE mentorship program has connected her with a network of talented individuals, providing a platform for learning and inspiration. “I have had the opportunity to meet men and women who work in similar and different disciplines and listen to their experiences and advice on chartering my professional development,” she says.
Bridging the Gap, Building a Sustainable Future
The WIRE Network’s mentorship program is not just about empowering individual women – it’s about transforming the entire renewable energy landscape in the Caribbean. By investing in the next generation of clean energy leaders, the network is building a more self-reliant and sustainable region, reducing the reliance on external experts.
As I delve deeper into the stories of these remarkable women, I can’t help but feel inspired by their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to a greener future. The WIRE Network’s mentorship program is proof that when we come together, support one another, and harness the power of collective knowledge, we can achieve remarkable feats.
So, if you’re passionate about renewable energy and want to be a part of the solution, I encourage you to explore the WIRE Network and consider getting involved. Whether it’s through volunteering, mentoring, or financial support, your contribution can make a real difference in shaping the energy landscape of the Caribbean and beyond.
Remember, the shift to clean energy starts locally. It starts with you. Join us in this journey towards a verdant, secure, and thriving future for all.