Gender Equality In The Energy Sector Will Boost Sustainability According To Speakers At GWFD 2020
Khawla Al Mehairi: "More women need to be made aware of the great opportunities available in the fields of energy."
As the commitment to sustainable energy and growth spreads across economies and nations around the world, leaders must prioritise gender equality in the energy sector. This was the message from panellists speaking at Global Women’s Forum Dubai (GWFD) 2020 in the Future Hub. They also discussed best practices and opportunities for women in sustainable innovation and development.
GWFD 2020, which is taking place at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and Ruler of Dubai, will conclude on 17 February.
Speakers of the ‘Equality in the Energy Sector’ panel discussion included Khawla Al Mehairi, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Government Communications, DEWA; Valerie Levkov, Senior Vice President, Africa, Middle East and Mediterranean, EDF; and Dr. Lamya Fawaz, Executive Director of Brand & Strategic Initiatives, Masdar. The session was moderated by Campbell M. Steedman, Partner at Squire Patton Boggs.
“More women need to be made aware of the great opportunities available in the fields of energy. It is important to find ways to strengthen sustainable development by enhancing women’s representation in the energy and sustainability sectors." said Khawla Al Mehairi, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Government Communications for DEWA, which is also the Strategic Sustainability Partner of Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2020.
Khawla Al Mehairi added: “The UAE’s wise leadership strives to enhance the participation of women in all sectors including energy. Women in the UAE have a key role in the sustainable development of the country. "
The session highlighted the importance of gender equality within fields related to energy, innovation, and sustainability. The speakers provided insights into learnings and opportunities from both government and the private sector.
“We have to encourage women and the youth to be ambitious and proud of what they can bring to the energy sector, as they are key to achieving sustainability for all. I have great confidence in achieving gender balance for the energy sector.” said Valerie Levkov, Senior Vice President, Africa, Middle East and Mediterranean, EDF.
Aside from discussing best practices, the panel also highlighted opportunities to strengthen sustainable development through the enhancement of women’s representation in the energy field. Future is a one of the key pillars of Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2020, and the role of women in building a sustainable future for all will also be discussed during the second day of the Forum.
“The representation of women in the energy fields is very promising, as the sector provides women with several opportunities to learn, grow and reach leadership positions. At Masdar, we support and empower women through several leadership programmes aimed at closing gaps in the energy sector.” said Dr. Lamya Fawaz, Executive Director of Brand & Strategic Initiatives, Masdar.
Dr. Lamya Fawaz added: “Role models are essential in inspiring women and youth to enter the energy sector, and the UAE has an evergrowing number of inspirational women who have a prominent regional and global presence.”
Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2020 is organised by Dubai Women Establishment, which is led by Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council and wife of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.
Building on its theme, ‘The Power of Influence’, Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2020 will highlight how effective policies and partnerships in four key areas – Government, Economy, Society, and the Future – can further women’s positive impact for a better future.
