As we wrap up an incredible chapter with the Women in Renewable Energy Sector (WiRES) internship program at Energicity Sierra Leone, it’s with immense pride that we reflect on the remarkable journey we’ve shared.
About WIRES Internship Program
This program aims to provide young women with valuable hands-on experience in the field of renewable energy, particularly in the operation and maintenance of solar mini grids. By empowering female students through education and practical training, we aim to contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future while addressing the under representation of women in this industry.
Below are our main objectives for this programme.
Skill Development: To equip the interns with practical knowledge and skills in solar mini-grid systems, including designing, installation, maintenance, management, administration, and monitoring.
Career Empowerment: To inspire and encourage female students to pursue careers in renewable energy by offering them meaningful work experiences.
Diversity and Inclusion: To promote gender diversity and inclusion within our workforce and the broader renewable energy sector.
WiRES brought together a dynamic group of interns who contributed their hard work and talent to various departments at Power Leone. These interns have been an integral part of our mission to provide reliable and affordable electricity to off-grid communities in Sierra Leone, driving innovation and sustainability in the renewable energy sector.
Notable Accomplishments:
Our interns showcased exceptional dedication and skills throughout the program, and we are proud of them. A few noteworthy achievements by the interns include;
- Enhanced communication and computer skills.
“My time in the internship program at Energicity has significantly enhanced my communication skills, proving to be crucial for engaging with diverse customers utilizing Energicity products and collaborating with colleagues. Additionally, my experience at Energicity has been transformative, elevating and advancing my computer skills from a novice level to a more proficient and confident state.” ~Seray
- Customer centricity
“I am now proficient in addressing customer issues both in the office and in the field. I have in-depth knowledge of the communities where our projects are located, as well as familiarity with our customer base.” ~ Victoria
- Problem solving skills.
“My problem-solving skills have significantly improved, particularly when dealing with customers in the field.”
- Teamwork and interpersonal skills
“I cultivated the ability to collaborate effectively within a team, honed my self-expression skills, and established positive relationships with colleagues, including key figures such as line managers.” ~ Rashidatu
- Administrative & HR
“I gained valuable experience in scheduling, preparing, and conducting interviews as well as performing general office administrative tasks.”~ Esther.
- Safety
“The weekly meetings provided essential safety tips, enhancing my knowledge of maintaining a safe working environment”- Esther.
“My understanding of workplace safety has been strengthened.”- Rashidatu.
- Sexual Harassment Awareness
“The Sexual Harassment training proved highly beneficial as it brought to light aspects of inappropriate behavior that I wasn’t aware of before. The session helped me recognize and understand these nuances.”- Ketura.
To our WiRES interns, thank you for bringing your energy, enthusiasm, hard work, and commitment to our organization. Your contributions have significantly contributed to our success, and we are immensely proud of the impact you’ve made. Your presence has not only enriched our team but has also inspired positive change within our organization.
As these talented embark on their next adventures, we wish them continued success, growth, and fulfilment in their endeavors. We are confident that they will carry the lessons learned during their time with WIRES into their future endeavors.
Acknowledgements
A special thanks to everyone who supported the interns and the WiRES program for fostering diversity, empowering women in the energy sector, and creating opportunities for growth and learning.
Esther Bangura, Ketura Edwin, Victoria Ansumana, Seray Koroma, Rashidatu Kargbo, Salamatu Kamara, Medoria Patience Mansaray.
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