The International Water Association (IWA) and Grundfos have unveiled the second cohort of the IWA-Grundfos Youth Action for UN sustainable development goal (SDG) 6 Fellowship, comprising 14 young water professionals (YWPs) from diverse backgrounds.
This initiative underscores the joint commitment of IWA and Grundfos to foster youth empowerment and drive sustainable water management practices globally. Following a rigorous selection process, the fellowship welcomes participants from across the globe.
This year’s youth fellows include: Elia Simonet, France; Emmanuel Nketiah Ahenkorah, Ghana; Hadi Mokarizadeh, Iran; Irene Mas Martin, Spain; Kamran Azizli, Azerbaijan; Karl Zimmermann, Canada; Meg Cummins, Australia; Micheala Ka Yan Chan, UK; Monica Ndagire, Uganda; Nathalia da Mata Mazzonetto Pinto, Brazil; Patience Wema Kombe, US; Radhika Boargaonkar, India; Ramanuj Mitra, India; and Thomas Philip Da Jose, Philippines.
Aligned with IWA’s vision of fostering inclusivity and diversity within the water sector, the selection process emphasised gender balance and geographical representation. Two YWPs from Grundfos have also been selected to join the fellowship, reflecting the company’s commitment to nurturing young talent within its ranks.
The IWA-Grundfos Youth Action for SDG6 Fellowship is designed to amplify the voices of young professionals, enabling them to champion sustainable water management and advocate for SDG6 — ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Fellows will engage in a dynamic programme of activities, including active participation at key conferences. Fellows will represent the youth voice at global water events, sharing their insights and solutions for water-related challenges. Furthermore, participants will benefit from tailored workshops and mentorship opportunities, building their capacity to lead in the water sector. Fellows will also work on impactful initiatives aimed at accelerating progress toward SDG6.
The fellowship’s inaugural cohort achieved several milestones, including presenting at the UN Water Conference and publishing projects that highlighted youth-driven solutions for water sustainability. The second cohort aims to build upon this foundation, further strengthening the role of youth in shaping the water sector’s future.
Further details on the fellowship’s activities and outcomes will be shared in the coming months.
