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Celebrating Innovation: Five Women Scientists Awarded for Sustainable Energy

In a remarkable recognition of women's pivotal roles in scientific advancement, five pioneering women from the Global South have been awarded the 2026 OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Awards. These awards are granted to early-career women scientists dedicated to propelling advancements in sustainable energy—an essential domain for global development and well-being. Their efforts are not just contributing to scientific knowledge but are also enacting tangible changes within their communities. This announcement was made just ahead of International Women's Day, spotlighting their dedication as exemplars in the field.

The laureates are: Cristina Dominguez from Guatemala, Fadia Alhaj Hussien from Syria, Duleeka Sandamali Gunarathne from Sri Lanka, Tabitha Awuor Amollo from Kenya, and Victoire Ghafi Kondi-Akara from Togo. Each of these exceptional women is addressing urgent energy challenges through innovative research and collaborative solutions that significantly influence local communities.

Transformative Contributions in Sustainable Energy

Their studies encompass a diverse range of projects aimed at enhancing energy accessibility. For instance, the team is pioneering solar-powered refrigeration systems for rural health facilities, thereby improving healthcare delivery in underserved areas. Additionally, they leverage geospatial modeling techniques to accurately forecast community energy demands, optimizing the allocation of resources to meet these needs effectively.

Luisa Echeverria King, President of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), emphasized the importance of such leadership, stating, "These five outstanding scientists demonstrate how scientific leadership can drive meaningful responses to the energy challenges faced by their communities." This sentiment underscores how their contributions extend beyond the laboratory, as they actively mentor the next generation of women in science, fostering paths for future leaders.

Profiles of the Awardees

1. Cristina Dominguez (Guatemala - Engineering Sciences)
As a project manager and country director at NRECA International, Cristina is dedicated to translating scientific insights into inclusive energy solutions. Her initiatives, such as developing open-source energy modeling tools, are pivotal in advancing access to sustainable energy in rural settings.

2. Fadia Alhaj Hussien (Syria - Chemical Sciences)
An esteemed lecturer at Hama University, Fadia’s research focuses on recycling industrial waste to foster clean energy opportunities. She embodies resilience in her work, notably in post-conflict Syria, where her endeavors aim to catalyze recovery and sustainable development.

3. Duleeka Sandamali Gunarathne (Sri Lanka - Engineering Sciences)
A senior lecturer in chemical and process engineering, Duleeka’s expertise in biomass technologies reflects her commitment to sustainability. She is dedicated not only to advancing her research but also to mentoring aspiring scientists in her field.

4. Tabitha Awuor Amollo (Kenya - Physics)
Tabitha specializes in solar energy conversion technologies. Her focus on developing cost-efficient solutions, like solar-powered refrigeration, integrates advanced technology with community needs, making a real difference in energy accessibility across Africa.

5. Victoire Ghafi Kondi-Akara (Togo - Physics)
A resident researcher in climate sciences in Rwanda, Victoire’s commitment to integrating energy science with policy marks her contributions as significant not only in academia but in practical energy solutions for African nations.

Importance of Recognizing Women in Science

The OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Awards have a rich history of celebrating the achievements of women scientists, having recognized over 84 women from more than 38 countries since their inception in 2013. Each awardee receives a monetary prize alongside a travel grant to attend leading international conferences, thereby enriching their professional networking and development opportunities.

Ylann Schemm, Executive Director of the Elsevier Foundation remarked, "Together OWSD, the Elsevier Foundation, and these groundbreaking women are expanding the possibilities of sustainable energy for least developed communities." This acknowledgment enhances the visibility and importance of women in science, essential for global energy transformation.

As the scientific community continues to recognize the need for inclusive representation, the accomplishments of these five women exemplify how innovation, collaboration, and mentorship can create lasting impacts in society. Their journey serves as an inspiration for the upcoming generations and cements the role of women in shaping a sustainable future for all.