Women in Sustainability, Environment, and Renewable Energy (WiSER), a global platform co-founded by Masdar and the Zayed Sustainability Prize, has opened applications for its 2026 WiSER Pioneers Programme, aimed at equipping the next generation of women leaders to drive sustainability and energy transition efforts worldwide.
Now entering its ninth year, the one-year programme is designed for women aged between 25 and 35 who are either entrepreneurs or have at least two years of experience in sustainability, environment, energy, or STEM-related fields. The initiative provides access to tailored workshops, global networking events, and one-to-one mentoring from senior industry professionals. Participants also engage in the WiSER Cares initiative, which connects them with local communities to design and implement practical sustainability solutions.
Since its launch in 2018, the WiSER Pioneers Programme has delivered more than 535 hours of workshops and over 515 hours of individual mentoring. More than 150 women from over 30 nationalities have completed the programme, building leadership skills, developing networks, and contributing to global climate action in their fields.
Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director for Brand & Strategic Initiatives at Masdar and Programme Director of WiSER, said: “WiSER was founded on the belief that when women lead, societies thrive. Our Pioneers are a testament to this, driving innovation, influencing policy, and launching solutions. As we open applications for the 2026 cohort, we are continuing our mission in supporting a worldwide movement of women whose leadership is essential to shaping the global sustainability agenda.”
The initiative has become a launchpad for women-led ventures, policy influence, and leadership in sectors such as clean energy, technology, and community development. Alumni have gone on to lead projects and shape national and international sustainability policies.
The programme combines leadership development with real-world exposure. Pioneers take part in bespoke workshops on clean energy, sustainability policy, leadership, and innovation, as well as immersive field experiences through WiSER Cares. In 2025, participants travelled to Indonesia to explore the country’s energy transition first-hand, visiting geothermal plants, floating solar projects, and attending workshops on climate finance.
Participants also have opportunities to contribute to global conversations at major events such as Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) and the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP).
WiSER, established in 2015, is part of the UAE’s wider commitment to advancing the role of women in sustainability, a vision rooted in the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The platform’s mission aligns with global net-zero objectives and the need for increased female participation in the fight against climate change.
