Abu dhabi: Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S), a global initiative led by Masdar, has successfully concluded its inaugural Mentorship Programme aimed at empowering the next generation of sustainability leaders.

According to Emirates News Agency, the 20-week programme featured 25 future leaders from 11 countries who were paired with leading experts and senior executives from a variety of organisations to develop skills, set professional objectives, and drive meaningful impact.

The programme brought together mentors from 14 organisations, including government entities, international companies, and universities, with mentees to deepen their understanding of sustainability challenges and opportunities. The aim was to strengthen their ability to lead change within their communities. Through regular one-on-one sessions, mentors and mentees exchanged insights, developed professional roadmaps, and enhanced leadership capabilities in areas such as innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability strategy.

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Brand and Strategic Initiatives at Masdar, highlighted the programme's priority to prepare future leaders who can operate with clarity and purpose. Dana Alkaabi, a Future Sustainability Leader 2025, emphasized the programme's instrumental role in shaping her professional journey and mindset towards growth.

Participants in the programme were drawn from a global network that included countries such as the UAE, Germany, Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria, the US, Brazil, Yemen, India, Kazakhstan, and Syria. Mentors represented organisations like Masdar, Siemens Energy, the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, and others, reinforcing the programme's commitment to advancing inclusive leadership and gender equity in sustainability. Notably, 64% of mentees and 60% of mentors were female, underscoring this commitment.