MPower Brazil brings together women from seven countries at COP30

23/11/2025 - MPower Brasil was present at COP30, represented by our Founder, Eduarda Zoghbi, our Lead of Engament & Outreach, Carolina Silva, and our Lead of Research & Data, Thaíssa Avena. Our team on the ground organized an intimate, invite-only networking workshop to offer a safe and inspiring space for meaningful discussions on closing the gender gap in the energy sector. The event was held on 15 November at the Open Society Foundations Pavilion (Blue Zone). We explored solutions, exchanged experiences, and built new connections among participants who are already leading the energy transition in their communities.

We were thrilled to host 12 incredible women representing seven countries across multiple regions to share their views on three guiding questions. Below are the main takeaways that emerged from the conversation:

What has most shaped your journey as a woman in the energy sector?

Across the room, participants highlighted how mentorship and a clear sense of purpose have guided their careers. Many emphasized the transformative role of having another woman believe in them early on, and how much of a difference it makes to have women as mentors and managers. They also pointed to the importance of peer support in navigating the sector.

Several participants mentioned the challenges of entering the field without a STEM background. Others spoke about discovering inequality within the sector, entering through non-traditional paths, and finding empowerment through mission-driven work.

“I grew up in energy poverty, and for the last six years I’ve lived in a country where it doesn’t exist. It was a huge surprise — and I want that for my family, community, and country. I believe energy is power.”

What do you hope will change for women in the energy transition by 2030?

Participants expressed a strong vision for a sector where women not only participate but lead. They envisioned a future with more visibility, more influence, and fewer structural barriers. These aspirations translated into calls for equal representation in decision-making spaces, recognition of diverse leadership styles, access to the skills needed to grow in the field, and equal pay.

“Women in leadership becoming the norm rather than the exception.”

“I hope the role of women in energy will finally be recognized — not only in their careers, but as the primary energy managers and those most affected by energy poverty.”

“I hope women can be at the decision-making table, with salary equity and real recognition.”

What kind of support or network would have made a difference in your journey?

The discussion on support underscored both systemic and practical needs — from financial support to opportunities for technical training. Participants talked about the role of sponsors and leaders who advocate for them in rooms they are not yet allowed in, providing backing when needed and opening doors to new opportunities.

Many also highlighted the importance of spaces like this workshop for community-building:

“Workshops like this are incredibly helpful because we connect and exchange ideas and experiences.”

Others stressed the need for leadership training, technical energy skills, seed funding for women-led initiatives, and cross-regional networks that can connect women at a regional and global level.

A Collective Call to Action

The conversations during the workshop made one thing clear: we need more spaces that are truly safe for women to listen, share, and open up about their experiences. It is not only about visibility at conferences, panels, and events, it is about being seen and feeling heard by our peers, knowing that our experiences are valid and that we are not alone. Women are already leading the energy transition, but for many, it can be a lonely road as we continue working hard to bring more of us into these spaces.

We also heard repeatedly how essential skills-building, mentorship, and leadership training are for women’s growth in the sector. MPower Brasil is committed to continuing to deliver on these needs and to creating spaces at large conferences that strengthen networks and connect women in energy globally, fostering intergenerational and intercultural exchange.