Women Champions in the Energy Sector

Prior to this role, she worked for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for six years, serving as a Programme Specialist for the Energy, Environment, and Natural Resource Management Cluster. In this capacity, she focused on renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, as well as identifying and forging strategic partnerships with the government, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and bilaterals. Mariatu's career in the energy sector began with her intention to work in disaster management in her native Sierra Leone. However, she soon discovered the linkages between disaster prevention and management, natural resource management, and development, leading her to focus on energy, the environment, and climate change. She holds a bachelor's degree in Linguistics from the University of Sierra Leone and a master's degree in Peace and Development from Njala University in Freetown. Throughout her career, Mariatu has been driven by a desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. She recalls the feeling of inner satisfaction that comes from seeing the transformation that occurs when an intervention leads to tangible results. Mariatu's work has taken her to various parts of Sierra Leone, including a site assessment of the proposed Singimi hydropower site in Moyamba in southern Sierra Leone. Mariatu's leadership style is characterized by her confidence and determination. She has often found herself as the only female in the room, but she has consistently demonstrated her capabilities and earned the respect of her colleagues. Her advice to women who want to pursue a career in the energy sector is to be proactive and take charge of their own opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and perseverance, encouraging women to "bring their own seat to the table" and "prove themselves worthy of the position." Mariatu's work has been recognized by her peers, including Sierra Leone's Minister of Energy, Alhaji Kanja Sesay, who she greatly applauds for his efforts to improve the enabling environment for women in the energy sector. Mariatu's own commitment to empowering women in the energy sector is evident in her leadership and advocacy, and she continues to inspire others through her work and example.