What exactly do you do in your current job?

I am very proud to be a young woman working on one of the largest energy transition projects in Mozambique and Africa – the Mphanda Nkuwa Hydropower Project. I was selected as one of 11 trainees, and I am especially proud that 7 of us are young women, contributing directly to the future of clean energy in my country. I currently work as an Environmental Engineer, supporting the project during its environmental and social studies phase for both power generation and transmission line. My role includes working with national and international consultants conducting field studies, assessing environmental and social risks, and helping identify appropriate mitigation measures to minimize project impacts. I also engage with government institutions and key stakeholders, helping communicate project progress, objectives, and next steps. In parallel, I contribute to the development of social development projects aimed at improving the living conditions of communities that will be affected by the project importantly, before construction begins. In addition, I coordinate several sustainability initiatives within our office, raising awareness among colleagues and partners about good environmental practices and responsible project development. Being involved at this early stage of the project is extremely meaningful and rewarding, as this is when the foundations are laid from environmental and social studies aligned with World Bank and IFC standards, to financial structuring, engagement with financiers, and coordination with government and strong stakeholders. This experience is shaping my career in a very powerful way. I am learning directly from experienced professionals from around the world and gaining valuable knowledge on how large-scale hydropower projects are designed and prepared. I strongly believe this will enable me, in the near future, to contribute to similar projects in Mozambique and beyond, supporting a just and sustainable energy transition.

What inspired you to start working in sustainable energy?

What inspired me to start working in sustainable energy is the power and importance of this sector in our daily lives. Today, almost everything we do depends on energy, and without it, development is impossible. Understanding this made me realise how essential it is to invest in energy solutions that are not only reliable, but also sustainable. As I deepened my understanding, I realised that many of our environmental challenges can be addressed by transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources. This motivated me to be part of the solution and to contribute to reducing environmental impacts while supporting development. I was also inspired by the opportunity to help developing countries like mine, Mozambique, which are rich in natural energy resources. I wanted to be part of efforts to unlock this potential and expand access to energy in a way that is responsible, inclusive, and sustainable. Finally, a very strong source of inspiration for me has been seeing strong and capable women leading in the energy sector. Watching women succeed and make an impact in a field that is still male-dominated showed me that we belong here. Their leadership, dedication, and support for other women encouraged me to pursue this path and to contribute my skills and passion to the growth of the sustainable energy sector.

Can you tell us about how you got started working in energy?

My journey into sustainable energy began with courage and a strong personal motivation to be part of a generation that creates positive impact in the world. I started exploring sustainable energy during my university studies, where I obtained a degree in Environmental Engineering. Early in my academic path, I had the opportunity to learn about renewable energy and environmental sustainability, and this experience helped me realise that sustainable energy was the sector where I wanted to dedicate my skills and passion. For my final university project, I chose to focus on sustainable energy solutions for rural development in Mozambique. My research was titled “Using sugarcane bagasse as a sustainable energy source to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in communities surrounding the Xinavane Sugar Factory.” This project was a turning point for me, as it confirmed that renewable energy is not only beneficial for the planet, but also a powerful tool to improve livelihoods, especially in rural communities. After graduating, I actively invested in my professional development by attending seminars, workshops, and online training programmes related to sustainable energy, both in Mozambique and internationally. I also began applying for opportunities in the energy sector to gain practical experience. In 2023, I was selected as one of 26 women trainees for an internship programme at TotalEnergies, which became my first professional experience in the energy sector. This opportunity was extremely meaningful, as I was exposed to new strategies focused on promoting and integrating renewable energy, particularly within the Mozambican context. In 2024, I joined the Mphanda Nkuwa Hydropower Project, one of the largest sustainable energy projects in Mozambique and Africa. I am currently working on this project, where I continue to learn, grow, and gain valuable technical and practical experience in sustainable energy, contributing to a project that will play a key role in the country’s energy transition.

What do you love about working in the sustainable energy sector?

What I love most about working in the sustainable energy sector is the powerful and visible impact it has on the world on communities, on people’s lives, and on our day-to-day activities, especially in developing countries. Working in sustainable energy is extremely rewarding, because you can clearly see the positive change created through projects and concrete actions. Energy access drives development, improves livelihoods, and opens opportunities for education, health, and economic growth. Another aspect I truly love is that sustainable energy is a multidisciplinary field. It allows me to gain valuable experience and knowledge across many areas, such as energy production, project development, technology, environmental protection, education, and innovation. This diversity keeps the work dynamic and continuously challenging, and it allows me to grow both professionally and personally. Sustainable energy also has a strong community impact, empowering local populations and creating opportunities for young professionals to innovate and bring new, more sustainable ideas into the sector. This sense of empowerment motivates me to give my best and to contribute actively to climate action and sustainable development. Finally, I love the global connections this sector offers. Working in sustainable energy allows me to collaborate and network with professionals from different countries and backgrounds who share the same vision for a cleaner, fairer, and more sustainable future. I love working in sustainable energy because it gives meaning to my work and allows me to contribute directly to the energy transition, climate resilience, and the creation of a more sustainable planet.

What advice or encouragement would you give to girls and young women considering a career in sustainable energy?

My main advice to girls and young women considering a career in sustainable energy is to dream big very big and never underestimate yourselves. Believe that you are capable. You may face challenges, but if you stay committed and keep moving forward, you will find your place in this sector. I strongly encourage young women to invest in their education and continuous learning. Study, read, research, and stay curious about sustainable energy. Knowledge is power, and this sector is constantly evolving, so learning should never stop. Another important piece of advice is to build a strong professional network. Do not be shy or afraid to ask questions, to say “I don’t know yet, but I want to learn.” Participate in seminars, conferences, and training programmes related to sustainable energy. Ask questions, exchange contacts, send emails, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn – this is something I did myself, and it opened many doors for me. I also encourage girls and young women to be brave, confident, and bold. Do not give up when the path feels slow or challenging. Be patient with the process, enjoy the journey, and trust that your time to shine will come as long as you continue preparing yourself through learning, networking, internships, and mentorship. Finally, believe this: there is space for women in sustainable energy. This is a growing and inclusive sector that needs your ideas, leadership, and passion. With courage, dedication, and wisdom, you can build a meaningful career and help shape a more sustainable and equitable future.