At the Europe House in Skopje, the event "Energy of Success: Where Women Create, the Future Changes" was held, organized by the Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources and Minister Sanja Bozhinovska. The event was dedicated to women shaping the future of energy and mining, industries traditionally considered "male," but today witnessing changes led by women.
"Women are not the future of energy and mining. Women are the present. When women are part of decision-making, energy strategies are smarter, and resources are used more efficiently. This is not a fight to be recognized – this is a fight for results. As a minister, my job is not just to 'motivate' women to enter the sector – it is to create conditions for them to advance in it," stated Minister Sanja Bozhinovska in her address.
She also emphasized the specific steps the Ministry is taking to support women in these sectors, including professional development, mentoring programs, and gender balance in management.
The event was attended by the UN Resident Coordinator in Macedonia and a recognized international gender equality expert, Ms. Rita Columbia, who also spoke about her path as a woman.
"My goal and determination to help women around the world is what drives me forward. As a woman, I know exactly what stands in our way. It is crucial that we do not walk this path alone, that we have real support and partnership from our families and surroundings, but also that we support each other as women, play as a team, and move forward together," said Columbia.
The event included two inspiring panel discussions where over 50 women leaders from the industry shared their experiences and visions.
Participants, including Katerina Novakova (SASA Mine), Kristina Krsteva (Buchim Mine), Ana Meshko (ESM), Kika Shpritova, head of the mining department, and Magdalena Daskalova (Renewable Energy Department MERMS), discussed Breaking Barriers, their experiences in the sector, Gender Equality – Is there significant progress and what needs improvement.
In the second panel, Sonja Lepitkova (Macedonian Geological Society), Aleksandra Krkoleva (FEIT), Simona Domazetovska (MEPSO), Maja Anackova (ESM), and Valentina Stardelova (MERMS) discussed: Key factors for career progress, how to achieve leadership positions and success, the need for support, mentoring, and networking, and how to increase the number of women in STEM professions.
"To create a community of women in the sector, we need to invest in mentorship and raise the voices of those who are already successful. Their stories are the most powerful inspiration and will encourage, open the path," said the participants.
The event "Energy of Success" was not just a celebration of women's achievements in energy and mining but also a call to action. It highlighted the need for gender equality, support, and inclusion in these sectors, as well as the importance of the collective commitment to support women in STEM professions – to inspire more young girls to choose this career.
"Your stories are powerful. Your achievements are inspiring. And your dreams are achievable. Keep breaking barriers and inspiring! Together, we can do anything!" Minister Sanja Bozhinovska concluded.
This event confirmed that women are not only part of the change – they are leading it!
With respect,
Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources
