Interviewer: Eman, it’s a pleasure to have you with us. Your work in nanocarbon materials for energy storage at KAUST and your role in founding the Saudi Youth for Sustainability (SYS) are both incredibly impressive. Could you start by telling us a bit about your project and what motivated you to start it?
Eman: Thank you for having me. My research at KAUST focuses on innovating nanocarbon materials to improve energy storage systems. This is crucial for advancing renewable energy technologies and addressing global sustainability challenges.
The motivation behind this work stems from my broader passion for sustainability. During my graduate studies, I took courses in Sustainable Engineering and Energy and the Environment, which made me acutely aware of the urgent need for action. This realization ignited a drive in me to not only contribute through research but also to empower others to take action, leading to the creation of Saudi Youth for Sustainability.
Interviewer: That’s a fascinating journey. Can you tell us more about how Saudi Youth for Sustainability (SYS) was established and what it aims to achieve?
Eman: SYS was established in Fall 2019 following a series of pivotal events. During my studies at KAUST, I was inspired by courses that highlighted the need for sustainable solutions and the potential of youth-driven initiatives. The opportunity came when Dr. Ana Margarida organized ‘Let’s Talk about Sustainability,’ which was a catalyst for change.
We gathered a diverse group of passionate individuals and decided to form SYS as a platform for youth to drive sustainability initiatives across Saudi Arabia. Our primary goals are to empower young leaders, connect them with each other, and foster collaborative efforts towards a sustainable future. We focus on creating sustainability groups in universities, promoting networking, and sharing knowledge about sustainable development and best practices.
Interviewer: It sounds like SYS has made significant progress. Can you share some of the key initiatives and accomplishments of SYS?
Eman: Absolutely. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, SYS was incredibly active. We launched various initiatives such as the Sustainability Seminar Series, Campus Tours, Weeks of Awareness, and Sustainability Movie Nights. These programs aimed to engage the community, educate people on sustainability issues, and promote environmental awareness.
We also participated in global forums and collaborated with both local and international organizations. One of our key achievements was becoming one of the most active student organizations on campus, even amidst difficult circumstances. Our initiatives have helped build a robust network of young leaders committed to sustainability and have sparked meaningful conversations and actions within the community.
Interviewer: What are your future goals for SYS, and how do you envision its role in advancing sustainability in Saudi Arabia?
Eman: Looking ahead, we aim to expand our network to include more universities and youth groups across Saudi Arabia. By doing so, we hope to create a larger, more collaborative community of young leaders working towards sustainability.
We also plan to continue advocating for sustainable development policies and ensuring that youth voices are included in policy discussions. Our goal is to foster a culture of sustainability that extends beyond academia and into various sectors of society, including communities and industries.
Ultimately, we envision SYS as a driving force in empowering Saudi youth to lead sustainability efforts, develop innovative solutions, and contribute to a more sustainable future for the Kingdom and beyond.
Interviewer: Eman, your commitment to sustainability and empowering youth is truly inspiring. Thank you for sharing your insights and the impactful work of Saudi Youth for Sustainability with us today.
Eman: Thank you for the opportunity. It’s been a pleasure to discuss our initiatives and share our vision for a sustainable future.
