African power demand is expected to increase by 75% by 2030 while energy demand in industry, freight and agriculture is set to grow by 40%. Meeting this demand requires innovative projects and strategies, highlighting strategic opportunities for women. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, Energy Capital & Power (ECP) CEO Devi Paulsen-Abbott shares insights into creating opportunities for women in the energy and events industries, highlighting how gender diversity leads to greater innovation.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the events industry?
My inspiration to pursue a career in the events industry stems from a passion for creating impactful and memorable experiences. Events have the power to bring people together, spark meaningful conversations and drive positive change. I was drawn to the dynamic nature of the events industry and the opportunity to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to deliver successful and engaging events.
What opportunities are available for women in the African energy sector and what advice would you offer to those seeking to pursue a similar path?
Energy is the backbone of every economy worldwide, and the African continent is no exception. There is a growing need for skilled professionals in the energy sector, and women have a crucial role to play in driving innovation, sustainability, and growth in this industry.
My advice to women seeking to pursue a similar path is to be bold, ambitious, and persistent. Take advantage of networking opportunities, seek mentorship from experienced professionals, and continuously expand your knowledge and skills. The energy sector offers diverse career paths, from engineering and project management to finance and policy. Embrace new challenges, and never underestimate the value of your unique perspective and contributions to this vital industry.
How does gender diversity contribute to greater innovation and success in these industries?
Gender diversity in the energy and events industries brings a broader range of perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table, which are essential for driving innovation and success. When teams are diverse, they are better able to understand and respond to the needs of a diverse customer base.
The African energy industry requires a lot of ‘out-of-the box thinking’, specifically given the unique challenges the continent faces. While countries aim to increase supply to alleviate energy poverty, efforts to decarbonize and reduce emissions are also underway to strengthen Africa’s resilience to climate change. In this scenario, diverse teams will be integral. Different viewpoints will lead to more robust problem-solving and decision-making processes. Gender diversity also contributes to a more inclusive and supportive work environment, which can lead to higher employee morale, retention, and ultimately, business success.
What initiatives do you believe will advance the contribution of women in the events and energy industries?
Advancing the contribution of women requires a multifaceted approach to ensure genuine inclusion in the industry. From the ground-up, we need to promote opportunities. This includes encouraging greater participation in STEM-related education, creating pathways for internships and mentorships, and ensuring women are connected with companies and job opportunities.
This goes beyond creating opportunities in entry-level and mid-level positions. To enact true change across the industry and unlock innovation and progress, we need to promote the participation of women in senior management and leadership. As Ruth Bader Ginsburg said, ‘women belong in all places where decisions are being made.’ As an industry, we need to do more to ensure women are leading decisions.
In 2023 you were appointed CEO of African event producer ECP. How does the company facilitate opportunities for women in the African energy industry and why should women participate in ECP’s events?
At ECP, we are committed to fostering opportunities for women in the African energy industry. ECP’s annual events across Africa and globally consistently showcase a strong representation of women, with dedicated panels and networking functions paving the way for greater engagement. We actively seek out female speakers, panelists, and participants, recognizing the valuable perspectives and insights they bring to the industry. We also provide mentorship and networking opportunities for women to connect with industry leaders and peers, helping them to build relationships and advance their careers.
ECP’s events offer a unique platform for women across the industry to showcase their expertise, gain visibility, and build their professional networks. The events also provide valuable learning and development opportunities, with sessions focused on key industry trends, challenges, and opportunities.
ECP’s Women in Energy series celebrates the women shaping the future of the African energy sector. From projects to companies to programs and community development, the series underscores the integral role women play in developing the sector. Visit www.energycapitalpower.com and keep up-to-date with our social media channels for daily content!
