02 Dec 10 Quickfire Questions for 10 Leading Women in Energy – Amisha Patel
To mark our 10th anniversary, we are asking 10 leading women in the UK energy sector 10 quickfire questions about their lives, their likes and what advice they would give to their 10-year-old self.
We’ve enjoyed the answers from these inspiring female role models. Read on!
Amisha Patel, Head of the Global Offshore Wind Alliance
Amisha has had a successful international career in energy, bringing her policy, public affairs and communications expertise to the offshore wind and renewables industries, trade associations and public sector, including spells at Mainstream Renewable Power, Principle Power, and the Energy Industries Council. She is a mentor and PfW Ambassador and is also founder of Amisha Yoga and Wellness.
“The advice I’d give to my 10-year-old self? That being a woman of colour is something to embrace. Don’t be afraid of standing out; your differences are your strength. And give things a go – it’s okay to not have it all figured out.”
1. Describe yourself in three words
Determined, motivated, personable.
2. What gets you up and into work in the morning?
Knowing that my work can make a difference is what drives me every day. After spending the best part of 20 years in climate policy and offshore wind, I’m fortunate to be part of an industry where there’s a real sense of community and collaboration on a global scale. I thrive in this environment – working from home and across borders, sharing insights, and collaborating to find solutions with people who share the same passion for positive change. It’s this purpose and the opportunity to contribute to something bigger that keeps me motivated.
3. What was your first job?
With the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as a Press and Public Affairs Assistant. I was posted in New Delhi, India.
4. What has been your greatest challenge so far?
This is a tough one because life tends to throw things at you when you least expect it, both personally and professionally. I think the biggest challenge for me has been finding balance between work and personal life. In my experience, that balance doesn’t really exist in a perfect sense. There are just times when one aspect of life demands more attention than the other, and it’s about managing those moments as they come. Eventually, things tend to balance out, but it’s a constant juggling act. I’ve had my fair share of losses and challenges health wise (most recently surgery which meant I needed time off to recover and a life adjustment).
5. How do you relax and unwind after a long day?
I am a qualified Yoga and Pranyama (breathwork) teacher. So through self-practice and teaching others. I also enjoy music, ceramics and am a huge fan of Bollywood movies and Korean dramas!
6. What advice would you give now to your 10-year-old self?
I’d tell her that being a woman of colour is something to embrace – it’s what makes you special and unique. Don’t be afraid of standing out; your differences are your strength. Be confident in who you are, and don’t feel like you have to be perfect. Just give things a go, even if you’re unsure. It’s okay to make mistakes, and it’s okay to not have it all figured out. Most importantly, care less about what others think of you – what matters is how you feel about yourself.
7. What change would you like to see happen within the next 10 years?
The world making more progress on tripling renewables capacity and climate targets and doing what’s needed to keep us on track. I’d also like to see a lot more parity between the global north and south, with the gap starting to close. More acceptance, less conflict. And definitely more women in senior roles, with pay parity being the standard, not the exception.
8. What’s your favourite souvenir or memento from a memorable trip?
I collect Fridge Magnets, Pin Badges and anything Hello Kitty (she’s a global icon).
9. Who has supported or inspired you along your career journey?
My mother continues to guide me! And I am really lucky to have some amazing mentors and peers within my network . Mentoring is key and people should be more proactive about building this into their careers. Reaching out and talking things through helps when we feel stuck.
10. Why is the energy sector such an exciting place to work right now?
The energy sector is incredibly exciting right now because we have the power to make real change, and we’ve seen that in action. Last year, we saw the tripling of renewable energy adoption at COP28 – proof that collective action can bring about the changes we need.
I lead the Global Offshore Wind Alliance, a multi-stakeholder initiative co-founded by GWEC, the Government of Denmark and IRENA, where we bring together governments, industry, and civil society to tackle the challenges of deploying offshore wind. This sector is key to the energy transition, and we’re seeing the impact of our work already. But we need more people to join us in this mission to deliver on the ambition we all know is necessary. If not now, then when?
Amisha’s recommendations:
Book: Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall
Podcast: Diary of a CEO by Steven Barlett
TV Show: The Glory – on Netflix (best revenge drama I have ever seen but not for the faint hearted)