MASDAR-WiSER Invites Applications for the 2026 Pioneers Shaping Sustainability Leadership Program for Women Leaders

Posted: September 25, 2025
Application Deadline: Unspecified
Organizer: Women in Sustainability, Environment, and Renewable Energy (WiSER), Masdar & Zayed Sustainability Prize

About the Program

Applications are now open for the 2026 MASDAR-WiSER Pioneers Shaping Sustainability Leadership Program, a global initiative dedicated to empowering the next generation of women leaders in sustainability.

Co-founded in 2015 by Masdar and the Zayed Sustainability Prize, WiSER has become a leading platform for female leadership in energy, environment, and sustainability. Now entering its ninth cohort, the year-long Pioneers Program provides intensive workshops, mentorship, and global networking opportunities to women who are shaping the future of sustainability.

Since its launch in 2018, the program has offered:

535+ hours of workshops
515+ hours of one-to-one mentoring
Opportunities for 150+ Pioneers from 30+ nationalities

Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to women who meet the following requirements:

Aged between 25 and 35 years
Hold a degree in a field related to environment, energy, sustainability, or STEM disciplines
Minimum of two years of work experience (employed or self-employed)
Excellent spoken English (Arabic is optional)
Ability to commit to at least 70% of workshops and events

Roles and Responsibilities

Selected participants will:

Attend training workshops and events throughout the year
Promote the WiSER Pioneers Program through their networks
Participate in Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and the Annual WiSER Forum
Engage in the WiSER Cares initiative, a cultural exchange and hands-on sustainability project
Provide feedback to strengthen future editions of the program

Key Competencies

Positive attitude and eagerness to learn
Strong time management and reliability
Ability to coordinate, manage tasks, and work under pressure

Benefits

Participants will receive bespoke training in:

Clean energy and sustainability policy
Leadership and innovation
Hands-on sustainability practices through WiSER Cares

The program is designed to equip women with the knowledge, networks, and skills to drive the global energy transition and deliver impact in their communities.