Young leaders Rhea and Owais share why empowering youth, encouraging curiosity, and introducing skilled trades early can help shape a more sustainable future.
1. Can you tell our readers about Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE) Juniors and why it is important for young people?
Rhea: I am the very first WiRE Juniors Ambassador. It all started two years ago when I was six years old. I went with my mom to a WiRE event where lots of people from the energy industry were talking on stage. I wanted to ask a question about climate change, so I raised my hand and asked it. That moment helped start WiRE Juniors, because it showed that kids have important questions and ideas, too.
2. What inspired you to join WiRE and what would you like to achieve in this role?
Owais: The first WiRE Juniors event showed me that young people can have a voice and make a meaningful difference in their communities. That experience inspired me to become involved with WiRE.
I joined WiRE to learn from industry leaders and gain a better understanding of how we can build a cleaner, more sustainable future. I am particularly interested in raising awareness among my generation about clean energy, climate change, and sustainability initiatives that help protect our planet.
I believe my generation has an important role to play in creating positive change, and I hope to encourage more youth to get involved, share their ideas, and be part of that journey.
3. What is your message to the industry leaders?
Owais: My message to industry leaders is to keep supporting and encouraging young people. When adults give us opportunities to learn, ask questions, and share our ideas, it helps us grow into future leaders. By working together across generations, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable, and more inclusive future for everyone.
Rhea: I think industry leaders, just like WiRE does, should listen to kids like us because we have great ideas! We care a lot about the future and the environment, and sometimes we see things in a different way. I also think leaders should give young people more opportunities to learn, ask questions, and be involved in important conversations. If they support us, we can come up with even better ways to help the environment, make our communities better places, and inspire other kids to get involved too.
4. What do you know about skilled trades and apprenticeships, and would you consider this as a future career?
Owais: Through WiRE leaders, I have learned that skilled trades involve hands-on work, training, and practice to become skilled in a specific profession. I find it very interesting to build practical skills in this way.
I also realized that skilled trades are very important for our society because they help build and maintain the systems we rely on every day. I am now interested in considering this as a future career option as I continue to learn more.
Rhea: I know that skilled trades are jobs where you make and fix things, like being a plumber or an electrician. I think it would be fun to learn how to do those jobs because they help people every day. I also like that skilled trades involve building things and solving problems with your hands. Apprenticeships sound like a great way to learn from experienced people while gaining new skills. I would like to explore this more when I’m older and learn about the different careers that are available.
