The International Water Association (IWA) and Grundfos have unveiled the second cohort of the IWA-Grundfos Youth Action for SDG6 Fellowship, comprising 14 exceptional young water professionals (YWPs) from diverse backgrounds.
The organisations said this initiative underscores the joint commitment of IWA and Grundfos to foster youth empowerment and drive sustainable water management practices globally.
Following a rigorous selection process, the Fellowship welcomes participants from across the globe, representing a rich tapestry of cultures, expertise, and perspectives.
This year’s Youth Fellows include:
Elia Simonet, France
Emmanuel Nketiah Ahenkorah, Ghana
Hadi Mokarizadeh, Iran
Irene Mas Martin, Spain
Kamran Azizli, Azerbaijan
Karl Zimmermann, Canada
Meg Cummins, Australia
Micheala Ka Yan Chan, United Kingdom
Monica Ndagire, Uganda
Nathalia da Mata Mazzonetto Pinto, Brazil
Patience Wema Kombe, USA
Radhika Boargaonkar, India
Ramanuj Mitra, India
Thomas Philip Da Jose, Philippines
Aligned with IWA’s vision of fostering inclusivity and diversity within the water sector, the selection process emphasised gender balance and geographical representation. Two YWPs from Grundfos have also been selected to join the Fellowship, reflecting the company’s commitment to nurturing young talent within its ranks.
Fellowship Highlights and Goals
The IWA-Grundfos Youth Action for SDG6 Fellowship is designed to amplify the voices of young professionals, enabling them to champion sustainable water management and advocate for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) – ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Fellows will engage in a dynamic programme of activities, including:
Active Participation at Key Conferences: Fellows will represent the youth voice at global water events, sharing their insights and solutions for water-related challenges.
Skill Development and Networking: Participants will benefit from tailored workshops and mentorship opportunities, building their capacity to lead in the water sector.
Collaboration on Advocacy Projects: Fellows will work on impactful initiatives aimed at accelerating progress toward SDG6.
About the Fellowship
The Fellowship’s inaugural cohort achieved significant milestones, including presenting at the United Nations Water Conference and publishing impactful projects that highlighted youth-driven solutions for water sustainability. The second cohort aims to build upon this foundation, further strengthening the role of youth in shaping the water sector’s future.
