ISLAMABAD: On Thursday, the United States celebrated the accomplishments of the second cohort of 24 young leaders from the “Empower All Energy Program,” an initiative funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This program aims to enhance diversity among future energy leaders, with a particular focus on women, by connecting youth with key stakeholders in both the public and private energy sectors and equipping them with essential skills for success.
Recognizing Achievements
At the ceremony, Acting Mission Director James Fleming and Dr. Tahir Masood, Chairman of Islamabad Electric Supply Company’s Board of Directors, distributed certificates to engineering graduates from various universities. This event marked a significant milestone in the graduates’ journey towards becoming influential leaders in the energy sector.
Program Origins and Impact
Launched in 2023 as part of USAID’s Power Sector Improvement Activity, the “Empower All Energy Program” seeks to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within Pakistan’s energy sector. The program has already shown promising results, with more than 60% of the first cohort of 20 graduates from 2023 securing jobs and internships in the energy sector.
Inclusion and Innovation
During the ceremony, Acting Mission Director James Fleming emphasized the importance of inclusion in addressing global climate challenges. “To address the world’s climate crisis, we need to harness the talents of everyone. Youth from diverse backgrounds – especially young women – bring fresh perspectives, skills, and talents to climate mitigation, where innovative and sustainable clean energy solutions are needed to transform the high-emitting global energy sector,” Fleming stated.
Career Opportunities
In addition to the Empower All Energy Program, USAID is hosting a career expo for STEM graduates, providing a platform for them to network with national and international companies and explore career opportunities. This expo is part of the broader effort to ensure that young graduates have the necessary connections and resources to thrive in the energy sector.
Conclusion
The Empower All Energy Program represents a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and innovative energy sector in Pakistan. By supporting young leaders and promoting diversity, USAID is helping to build a sustainable future that leverages the talents and perspectives of all individuals, particularly women. As these graduates enter the workforce, they are poised to make substantial contributions to the energy sector and the fight against climate change.
