Today marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science – a day to honor the contributions of women and girls to the field of science and acknowledges their potential as catalysts for transformative change.
At USAID-SAREP, we believe that it’s important to recognize the achievements, ideas, and work that women bring to the energy sector. We advocate for equality across this male-dominated sector and want to highlight the brilliant work that our fantastic women colleagues do every day!
Learn about our phenomenal women of SAREP!
Recently, we had the opportunity to catch up with five amazing women who work within the SAREP team:
Shivali Dwivedi – Energy Technology Specialist
Priya Garg – Capacity Building Specialist
Nidhi Soni – Public Private Partnership Specialist
Shilpi Samantray – Electric Vehicle Specialist
Namrata Mukherjee – Deputy Chief of Party
They shared their experiences and opinions as women in the energy sector and what changes they would like to see to promote better gender inclusivity.
Let’s hear what they’ve got to say on International Day of Women and Girls in Science!
Q. What barriers or challenges did you face as a woman in STEM, and how did you overcome them? What advice do you have for other young women working in STEM fields?
“While I haven’t faced major personal challenges as a woman in energy, the industry’s underrepresentation of female voices is evident. From conferences to leadership positions, women often take a backseat. To empower young women in STEM, we need strong mentorship networks and initiatives that encourage active participation. My advice? Stay informed about market developments, hone your communication skills, and build a solid network within your field to carve your own path and distinctive presence in the STEM sector.”
Q. What advice do you have for other young women working in STEM fields?
“As women in STEM, we navigate a thrilling yet challenging landscape. Our journey isn’t just about personal wins but empowering each other and reshaping the narrative for future generations. Doubts will come, but unwavering belief can propel us forward. I’ve faced skepticism leading projects, but my resilience proved expertise knows no gender. It’s the unyielding drive to succeed that truly matters. The relentless thirst for knowledge and courage to explore sets us apart. Above all, the collective voice holds the most power for change. In male-dominated fields like energy, diversity of thought is crucial. Every time we speak up in meetings, share ideas, and support one another as women, we’re not just breaking barriers, we’re reshaping the future.”
Q. How do you find working in SAREP project empowering?
“Working with SAREP has connected me with a diverse network of stakeholders across the energy sector in multiple countries. It’s an incredible opportunity to collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, engaging in impactful conversations that have the potential to shape the future of India’s energy transition. Being part of this initiative allows me to actively contribute to developing policies and programs that will not only positively impact India’s energy journey but also significantly enhance my own professional development.”
Q. How do you manage personal and professional responsibilities to maintain a healthy work-life balance?
“With the age of online collaboration and the flexibility of employees to work from anywhere, the concept of work life balance has shifted to work life integration. Sometimes it is about drafting an email while making your baby sleep or sometimes you are coordinating with the daycare while rushing through lunch in office. The boundaries between work and life are often blurred. The way I achieve it is to carefully plan not just the current work but carefully program my mind for the entire day.
Therefore, planning for scaling up EV adoption and thinking creatively to give my 3-year-old daughter a screen free, loving and engaging early childhood both go hand in hand. At least in my sector, my work is securing a better future for my daughter as well.”
Q. How do you believe gender equality initiatives can create more opportunities for women in STEM, particularly in the energy field?
“Addressing why there are fewer women in STEM fields, particularly within the energy sector, necessitates a multifaceted approach. Firstly, it is essential to recognize the contribution of women professionals in technical fields. Secondly, increasing the visibility of female role models within the energy field is crucial. By showcasing successful women in STEM careers, we can inspire and empower the next generation of female talent, dismantling stereotypes and fostering inclusivity. Lastly, investing in creating supportive workplace environments is essential for retaining and attracting female talent. By prioritizing recognition, visibility, and conducive workplaces, we can cultivate a more diverse and thriving STEM workforce, driving innovation and progress in the energy sector and beyond.”
