Comment by Inès Tunga, Practice Manager – Renewables, at Energy Systems Catapult.

With National Inclusion Week behind us, it’s important to continue reflecting on the significance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and the need to open doors and shatter ceilings for those underrepresented in the energy industry. EDI is about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background.

Growing up, I experienced diverse environments but often felt out of place. My father, a chemical engineer, moved our family frequently, exposing me to various cultures and highlighting the need for more women in leadership roles. As a Black woman, navigating spaces where I felt I didn’t belong fuelled my determination to see more role models who look like me.

Now, I want my daughter to see a future full of possibilities. ED&I means ensuring her dreams aren’t limited by race, gender, or any other societal barriers. It’s about her seeing a strong Black woman in leadership and knowing she can achieve anything she sets her mind to.

At the Catapult, EDI is more than a tick box exercise, it’s about changing narratives. We support diverse leadership through strong mentorship programmes and a work-life balance that helps individuals to thrive. Mental health and social impact are also key – we’re part of a network bigger than ourselves.

Recently, I had the honour of delivering a keynote at the University of Birmingham Summer School on decarbonisation and participating in a panel at the fourth annual C-DICE conference, themed ‘Net Zero Futures – Postdoc Pathways to Impact.’ Speaking to PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and early career engineers about the transition to Net Zero was a professional highlight and a personal victory over imposter syndrome. It was a moment where I stood tall, representing not just myself but all women, especially those who look like me.

One student told me, “It is refreshing to have not only the only woman among all the speakers but a smart Black woman standing tall and confident, wearing an African dress, delivering an amazing keynote message.” This feedback reinforced the importance of representation and its impact on the next generation.

Inspiration comes in many forms: early career interventions, mentoring programmes, and reverse mentoring initiatives. CDT programmes provide a solid foundation in academic research and industry exposure. More importantly, having an advocate who sees your potential and encourages you to take on challenges is invaluable.

Driving social value in society through STEM is another critical aspect. By promoting STEM education and careers, we can empower underrepresented groups, foster innovation, and address societal challenges. Initiatives that encourage young people, especially girls and minorities, to pursue STEM fields are essential for building a diverse and inclusive future.

To all early career professionals, I encourage you to adopt the “do it scared” mindset. Don’t let fear stop you from seizing opportunities to share your expertise. Embrace discomfort, lean into fear, and keep putting yourself out there. Your knowledge and perspectives are valuable – don’t deprive the world of them simply because you feel intimidated.

To my colleagues and energy industry organisations, we can only make progress if you commit to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

1. Promote diverse leadership: Ensure leadership roles are accessible to individuals from all backgrounds.
2. Mentorship programmes: Establish strong mentorship and reverse mentoring programmes to support underrepresented groups.
3. Work-life balance: Create policies that support a balanced work-family life, especially for working parents and caregivers.
4. Mental health support: Prioritise mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.
5. Social impact: Engage in activities that create positive social value and support inclusion.
6. STEM promotion: Encourage STEM education and careers to drive innovation and inclusion.

As the celebration for National Inclusion Week comes to an end and Black History Month starts this October, let’s celebrate diversity and promote a sense of belonging for everyone in our workplace and around us; recognising the importance of inclusion and making sure everyone feels valued and respected; creating an inclusive space, where we can learn and respect one another, ensuring everyone feels respected and valued.

We can build a future where everyone has a seat at the table, where their voices are heard, and where they can be their most authentic selves. Shatter those glass ceilings and nurture potential. Together, we can accelerate Net Zero and deliver a greener tomorrow.

Stay curious!

“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.” – Alvin Toffler.