Describe your job.
My Background is civil engineering in the energy sector. I worked in the UK Nuclear Energy Industry for almost 5 years and now work for an NGO helping companies deliver renewable energy projects in Africa. I run projects and programmes that help people to access clean, safe and reliable energy. What I do helps people move from using "dirty" energy such as kerosene to using (and being able to afford to use) "clean" energy such as solar power or wind power.
What problem does your job help to solve? How does your job make the world a better place?
My job is helping to sustainably solve the issues around energy accessibility and affordability for those living at or below the poverty line. Eventually, this will create a world in which everyone can be able to access and afford the energy they need to lift them out of poverty and give them the standard of living they want and deserve.
Why did you choose a career in Engineering? What was your greatest influence in making the decision?
I wanted to do Science, help people and learn some cool new stuff. That doesn’t automatically shout engineering but by a process of elimination and chatting with my parents and their friends, I landed on engineering. I think my biggest influence was a love of Physics, my supportive parents and curiosity.
What are you passionate about?
Obviously energy and energy provision, especially for the poor and other marginalized groups. I really believe that access to safe, affordable and reliable energy is a massive catalyst for economic development. I'm also a feminist – I'm passionate about gender equity and giving a fair chance to all. I think feminism is misunderstood especially in the African context and I want to be a part of that conversation.
What would you enjoy doing even if you were not paid to do it?
I think I would enjoy being an advocate for feminism and energy access as a tool to fight poverty. I like talking about these things with people who agree with me and especially with those who don't!
State some of your hobbies.
I paint and craft to recharge and escape for an hour or 6.
What advice would you give your 16 year old self?
Try everything you want to try at least once but don't wait too long before you decide what to put your focus on. You have to know that you can't do everything and if you do, you won’t do any of it very well.
What would you like to be remembered for?
Having given someone or some people more choice and agency over their lives than they previously had.
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