New network addresses urgent need for professional women
Acting on the need for women's unique role within the energy sector in South Africa, Marlene van Rooyen, longstanding Editor of Walls & Roofs in AFRICA, founding Editor of 25Degrees and WATER360, formed the newly launched SA Women in Energy Network (SAWIEN).
SAWIEN provides a unique platform for connection, conversation, growth and knowledge sharing.
"The network will open opportunities for women in energy by providing a platform for networking with likeminded persons," says van Rooyen. She explained that SAWIEN is a networking organisation that focuses on unifying women in the energy sector and promotes the advancement of women by capacity building, information sharing and creating a network of contacts in the sector. "Our goal is to give exposure to individuals of all levels who are helping our country overcome energy and sustainability challenges. Not only will we be giving up and coming talent a platform where they can showcase their ideas, innovations and projects, but we are also focussing on career and leadership development," says van Rooyen.
The network will bring women from all energy sectors, including energy efficiency, renewable energy, engineering and petrochemicals together to provide a space where they can network with peers and gain access to people, information and career opportunities.
"Women in the energy sector are making gr eat leaps and strides. With the SAWIEN network , we will be able to give the much-needed exposure to projects and individuals," says van Rooyen.
SAWIEN members can look forward to increased participation by women in the energy industry, engaging with various stakeholder groups in the sector simultaneously as well as learning from one another. Membership benefits include a range of networking opportunities, facilities and resources as well as news about progress and developments in the energy field.
SAWIEN members will further be able to participate in luncheons and networking events to connect and expand their particular industry objectives, attend and partake in speaking engagements on topics of mutual interest and benefit and share in the SAWIEN voluntary outreach initiative.
SAWIEN will also have an independent, online database of the energy professionals in our country as well as providing exposure to sponsors and donors who are supporting women in South Africa's energy sector," says van Rooyen.
The SA Women in Energy Award This prestigious award celebrates extraordinary women and validates them for their hard work in advancing the energy landscape. The recipient will have shown great commitment and dedication, and recognises an outstanding exemplar in the local energy industry.
The debut recipient for this annual award went to Lisa Reynolds, Sustainability Director at Saint- Gobain and Chair of the SABS Technical Committee, who has been instrumental in strategy, direction and construction of energy efficient standards in South Africa, "She is determined, resolute, tenacious and fair," notes Marlene. "The industry, and South Africa as a whole, is a better place for her extensive contributions."