A Beacon of Change: Women and Youth Pioneer Eco-Friendly Future at COP29 Event
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN — As the global community convened for COP29 to address the urgent climate crisis, a remarkable event in Baku demonstrated that the path to a sustainable future is being paved by a powerful new force: women and youth. The "Role of Women and Youth in Pioneering Eco-Friendly Enterprises" event, held on November 17, was a vibrant convergence of visionaries, entrepreneurs, and advocates, underscoring the vital connection between grassroots innovation and global climate action.
Hosted by Gender Hub Azerbaijan with support from the British Embassy, the evening brought together diverse leaders, including representatives from Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE) and its partner, Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC). The gathering, expertly moderated by Maryam Majidova, was more than a formal conference; it was a celebration of collaboration and local ingenuity.
A Global Tapestry of Local Solutions 🌍
The evening began with the Green Heritage: EcoPrenuers Expo, an engaging market that showcased the tangible application of eco-friendly principles. Attendees browsed a stunning array of local Azerbaijani crafts and sustainable products, a living testament to how traditional knowledge and modern entrepreneurship can create a greener economy. This market wasn't just a display; it was a powerful statement that a shift toward sustainability can and should be rooted in local communities and economies. It highlighted how every purchasing choice can be an act of empowerment and environmental stewardship.
The event seamlessly blended this hands-on experience with a series of insightful discussions and powerful keynote remarks. The central theme was clear: empowerment through entrepreneurship. The speakers highlighted how providing women and youth with the resources and platforms to lead sustainable businesses not only drives economic growth but also acts as a catalyst for positive environmental and social change.
Collaboration, Connections, and Community
A key takeaway from the evening was the undeniable power of collaboration. The event itself was a perfect example of this, bringing together organizations like Gender Hub Azerbaijan, the British Embassy, and WiRE to create a space for meaningful networking. The connections forged went beyond simple business cards; they sparked new partnerships and volunteer relationships that transcend geographical boundaries. As WiRE representatives Joanna Osawe, Andrew Osawe, and Michelle Branigan noted, the event was a "resounding success" that cultivated countless new relationships, reinforcing the global commitment to collective action.
The gathering fostered a sense of a global community dedicated to sustainability, celebrating local practices while uniting individuals from around the world under a common purpose. This collaborative spirit is essential for tackling the complex challenges of climate change and achieving the broader sustainable development goals discussed at COP29.
Many valuable connections were made with other nonprofit partners.
Moving Forward
The "Role of Women and Youth in Pioneering Eco-Friendly Enterprises" event served as a microcosm of what's possible when the focus shifts from grand-scale pledges to tangible, community-driven initiatives. It showcased that the most impactful solutions often begin at the local level and are championed by those with the most to gain from a cleaner, more equitable world. For the WiRE community, the evening was a potent reminder that our work is part of a much larger, interconnected movement. The seeds of change planted in Baku will undoubtedly grow into new partnerships and projects that advance renewable energy and gender equity on a global scale.
Learn more about Gender Hub Azerbaijan
Written by:
Andrew Osawe,
Director of Operations,
Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE)
