These women are positively empowering

Traditionally, engineering and energy have been male-dominated spaces. But just as we’re proud to be blazing new trails in powering the world with positive energy, we’re also proud to be shifting that gender dynamic. Our company includes so many remarkable women who are bringing their own positive energy to help shape our company and our industry. 

Today, as part of our celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re honored to introduce you to four women who are making their own history – and helping make the world a brighter place – as part of the New Fortress Energy team. 

“Recognizing women’s empowerment and accomplishments is a testament of how strong we are, and proof that even with barriers and difficulties, we’ve managed to achieve great things,” she says. “Every woman is important to celebrate! And sharing that recognition is the best thing that we can do to celebrate women.”

For Michelle, celebrating women begins at home.

“My role model is my mother, even if it sounds cliché,” she says. “She’s the hardest-working and most committed woman I’ve ever known. She has always been a good example and made sure I was raised to accomplish big things. That’s the same kind of advice I would give other women. I would tell young girls to live and enjoy the present, but to always keep the future in mind! Education and dedication are the best combination for success. And to women in the workplace, I would encourage them to push through barriers and challenges, and never give up on their dreams. Anything that’s worth fighting for won’t be easy. It takes a lot to prepare both intellectually and emotionally to be able to reach your goals and keep setting new ones.”

That’s Michelle’s secret to success as well.

“I put in the time and effort,” she says. “I keep prepared and make sure I’m always learning and growing with the world around me. Empowerment comes from within, and it’s directly influenced by our actions and dedication.” 

“One of the strongest reasons to celebrate Women’s History Month is the privileges that, thanks to the fight of women in history, we have inherited – the gift to decide how we want to shape our lives and to imagine a better future for us all,” she says.

Her passion is tangible – and so is her work to make a difference.

“This month, I am collecting bottle caps to help pay for chemotherapies for children, and collecting toys for kids who have been abandoned,” she says. “It’s a celebration that I had education, that I can learn as much as I can read, and that I always can share with a child in need. There will be always hope. We do not need to have elaborate plans; we only need the willingness to help.”

She also encourages future generations to have that same determination and optimism.

“Embrace the energy and power that comes from falling in love with your goals,” she says. “Don't be afraid to be the first girl on something, the only woman studying that, the first woman to go that far. Dare to break this ceiling and go higher. And then believe that you can continue! Widen the roads for those who come behind. Remember that success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, sacrifice, and time – but don’t worry – it also comes with many good friends and great memories if you work with a company like NFE!”

To that end, Sasha emphasizes the importance of developing a shared understanding and language of inclusion in the workplace.

“Highlighting the significant accomplishments by women across a company, and supporting equal pay for men and women in the same capacity, are great ways to promote inclusion and appreciation,” she says. “Additionally, companies that create a culture that discourages harassment are also taking a step in the right direction.”

That’s an important step, not only for females working today, but also for future generations.

“Women’s History Month offers us the opportunity to revisit the lives of outstanding women, and allows younger generations to hear their stories and be inspired to effect change,” Sasha says. “I use the internet to introduce my two younger sisters to women such as Ada Lovelace, Amelia Earhart, and Marie Curie, and what they’ve done to impact society. Young girls such as my sisters are constantly faced with the challenge of seeking validation from others to feel important, but the best advice I have for young girls comes from Eleanor Roosevelt: ‘No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.’ And keep learning. The working world is very dynamic, which creates the capacity for improvement, so it’s essential that such opportunities are explored.”

Shakira has found strength and support for her aspirations and approach through the example set in her own family tree.

“The way my grandmother, Gregoria Centeno, experienced struggles and surpassed obstacles is worthy of admiration,” she says. “With only an eighth-grade education, and having worked since she was 8 years old, she taught me how to stand up for myself, value myself, and be accountable for my decisions. She is a strong and yet sweet woman.”

Shakira aims to share that same determination with other businesswomen.

“Don’t be afraid to work in an area that is usually considered as a man’s world,” she counsels. “Just go for it. If you don’t succeed at a certain time, keep on trying. You will get there. My key for success is to be humble, respect others, listen carefully, and speak up at the right moments.”