The Women in Green Hydrogen (WiGH) South Asia Chapter proudly announced its launch during The Smarter E India, held in Gujarat on February 12. This landmark event brought together women leaders, industry professionals, policymakers, and key stakeholders to celebrate and advance gender diversity in the clean hydrogen and renewable energy sectors across South Asia.
With the launch of this chapter, WiGH seeks to empower women in the region’s green hydrogen economy by promoting collaboration, growth, and increased participation. The South Asia Chapter aims to foster opportunities and highlight the pivotal role women play in driving the energy transition in the region.
Women in Green Hydrogen: Our Vision
Women in Green Hydrogen is a global network of passionate women working in the green hydrogen sector. The organization’s vision is to increase the visibility and amplify the voices of women in the industry, ensuring they play a central role in shaping the future of sustainable energy.
The South Asia Launch Event
The launch event highlighted the vital importance of gender inclusivity in South Asia’s clean energy transition and featured inspiring discussions and thought leadership.
The session opened with a warm welcome from Pooja, who set the tone for an engaging and collaborative event. This was followed by Phoolvi (South Asia Chapter – Lead) who introduced Women in Green Hydrogen, its mission, and the vision behind the South Asia Chapter. In a symbolic gesture of unity and new beginnings, a ceremonial lamp-lighting marked the formal launch of the chapter.
A highlight of the event was the panel discussion, moderated by Pooja, titled “Challenges and Opportunities for Gender Inclusion in India’s Hydrogen Economy.” Esteemed panelists included:
- Dr. Rashi Gupta, Vision Mechatronics, who shared insights on technological innovation and its intersection with gender inclusivity.
- Arpit Sharma, SCGJ, who shed light on the need of capacity building and role of women in India’s future ahead.
- Phoolvi Agarwal, HyOn Energy, who brought her experience in entrepreneurial ventures in the energy sector to the discussion.
- Dr. Chitra Rajagopal, IIT, who highlighted the role of academic institutions in building capacity for women professionals.
The panel offered a platform to explore key challenges faced by women in the hydrogen industry, while also shedding light on potential strategies and collaborative approaches to increase gender inclusion.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Phoolvi and Pooja, who reiterated WiGH South Asia’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and empowered community within the green hydrogen ecosystem.
Why the Women in Green Hydrogen South Asia Chapter Matters
WiGH South Asia will be instrumental in shaping a sustainable future for the region by:
- Building a community that connects women professionals and fosters knowledge exchange.
- Offering opportunities for capacity building through training programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives.
- Advocating for gender-inclusive policies to create an enabling environment for women in renewable energy.
- Highlighting the achievements of women leaders and amplifying their voices to inspire the next generation.
- Global Impact and Future Vision
- WiGH’s expansion into South Asia aligns with global sustainability goals, including gender equality (SDG 5), affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), and climate action (SDG 13). Building on the success of its Africa Chapter, WiGH South Asia aims to become a catalyst for innovation, diversity, and inclusivity in the region’s hydrogen economy.
Looking Ahead
As WiGH South Asia embarks on this journey, it will focus on strengthening partnerships, creating opportunities for women professionals, and positioning the region as a leader in the global hydrogen economy.