Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to have mentors who shaped my academic and professional journey. The most significant among them is my mother. Watching her excel at her career as a psychology professor while raising two children instilled in me the belief that women can do anything.
A Mentor Who Demanded Excellence
Another pivotal figure in my life is my university professor, Nauman Zafar. During my bachelor’s at LUMS, I regretted not reaching my full potential. Determined to make the most of my master’s, I chose to pursue a thesis under Sir Nauman’s supervision, knowing he demanded excellence. My topic, Impact and Mitigation of Harmonics on Distribution Grid with Enhanced Nonlinear Loads, was challenging, but with his guidance and support from other professors, I successfully defended my thesis within a year. Beyond academics, Sir Nauman also introduced me to a career opportunity that changed my life. He connected me with PTR, a market intelligence and advisory firm specializing in the energy sector. I joined in 2019, marking the beginning of my professional journey. PTR was an exceptional mentor. Yes, you heard correctly: a company can be a mentor, especially your very first one. Despite my strong technical background, I had much to learn about the practical applications of electrical equipment and the evolving energy transition landscape. PTR taught me the fundamentals of market research, enabling me to write comprehensive reports for major EMEA electrical equipment manufacturers.
From Engineering to Strategic Communication
After three years, I recognized a gap between our research and marketing departments. With a passion for bridging this divide, I transitioned into marketing. There, I learned the craft of branding, PR, and strategic communication, which empowered me to shape and solidify PTR’s industry thought leadership. Thanks to PTR’s guidance, I now support PTR in business development and strategy for its Marketing Support Services (MSS). One lesson I will never forget is the mantra: “What is that 20% effort that would help us achieve 80% success?” PTR’s commitment to quality over quantity continues to guide me. Through my work at PTR, I have built valuable industry relationships, one of the most rewarding being with Alexandra da Fonte Martins from CWIEME. Alexandra is a role model in the power sector, and I had the privilege of speaking with her about the impact of mentorship on women innovators. When Alexandra joined CWIEME, mentorship played a key role in her growth. The CWIEME Advisory Board and Knowledge Partners provided her with invaluable insights into the evolving energy landscape. Their guidance helped her stay ahead of industry trends, strengthening her strategic vision. One of the biggest challenges women face in the power industry is the lack of visible role models. Without women in leadership positions, many struggle to envision a path forward, leading to selfdoubt and isolation. Alexandra believes diversity is essential, not just for inclusivity but also for better decision-making and innovation. She emphasizes the need for policies that support women’s recruitment, retention, and career advancement.
Empowering Women Through Mentorship and Diversity
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of Alexandra’s career. Her parents, who provided her with an inclusive education, inculcated in her the belief that diversity should be celebrated. Additionally, a professor at Coimbra University pushed her to think beyond the ordinary, shaping her perspective. Later, at CWIEME, leadership mentorship empowered her to drive meaningful change, reinforcing her commitment to paying it forward.
For women seeking mentors, Alexandra advises looking for those who create safe spaces for open dialogue. She stresses the importance of proactive engagement, setting clear expectations, and being receptive to constructive feedback. A good mentor champions your success, helping you navigate challenges in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
As I stressed earlier, companies also have a crucial role in fostering mentorship. At CWIEME, initiatives like Women in Engineering and Future Engineers provide women with networking opportunities, leadership development, and industry exposure. Such programs not only bridge the gender gap but also bring diverse perspectives critical to solving industry challenges.
We need more companies like PTR and CWIEME that truly believe in gender neutrality and actively work towards breaking barriers for women professionals in the energy sector. By investing in mentorship and diversity, companies can empower the next generation of women innovators, ensuring a more inclusive and dynamic future for the power sector.
