Post by : Maya Rahman

The Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S) Initiative, spearheaded by Masdar, has proudly concluded its inaugural Mentorship Programme. This initiative was designed to cultivate and inspire young individuals dedicated to advancing sustainability. Spanning 20 weeks, it paired aspiring leaders with seasoned mentors, aimed at honing skills, shaping ambitions, and preparing them for tangible impacts in the sustainability arena.

In total, 25 emerging leaders from 11 countries engaged in the programme. They were matched with mentors from 14 esteemed organizations, including governmental entities, global corporations, and prestigious universities. The initiative aimed to deepen their understanding of sustainability challenges, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills to promote positive change in their respective nations.

Structured around regular individual meetings, the mentorship offered opportunities to exchange insights, garner practical experience, and refine career plans. As a result, participants enhanced vital proficiencies in innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship, and long-term strategic sustainability. Each mentee left with a clearer vision for their future and actionable steps toward their objectives.

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Brand & Strategic Initiatives at Masdar, emphasized the programme’s goal. She stated that it seeks to empower young leaders with a blend of confidence, purpose, and insight. The Y4S Mentorship Programme not only provides direction but also connects youth with key decision-makers and resources needed to tackle the evolving sustainability landscape.

Participant Dana Alkaabi reflected on how the programme transformed her career perspective. She noted the newfound clarity it brought her, enhancing her confidence and personal development while motivating her pursuit of a career in sustainability.

Participants hailed from diverse backgrounds including the UAE, Germany, Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria, the United States, Brazil, Yemen, India, Kazakhstan, and Syria. This cultural variety enriched the experience, fostering idea exchange and mutual learning among the youth.

Mentors included representatives from a robust network of organizations such as Masdar, Siemens Energy, UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, GE Vernova, Stellr, NYU Abu Dhabi, Al Futtaim, IRENA, East Africa Carbon Markets Forum, ADNOC Group, Hub71, IKEA UAE–Qatar–Egypt–Oman, Hilton Hotels and Resorts (APAC), UAE University, and EY. Their engagement ensured participants received superior guidance and perspectives.

The programme underscored a commitment to gender equality, with 64% of mentees and 60% of mentors identifying as female. This emphasizes the initiative's dedication to providing equal leadership prospects and empowering women within the sustainability sector.

With the first cycle of the Y4S Mentorship Programme concluded, Masdar is dedicated to fostering a community of young leaders poised to create a greener, more sustainable planet. Plans for expansion and further opportunities will continue, enabling more youth to play a meaningful role in global environmental initiatives.

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