As an environmental professional, I am adept at overseeing diverse aspects of environmental management, ranging from Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Construction Environmental Management to Sustainability and Compliance. My responsibilities include preparing EIA summaries and addendums, coordinating with stakeholders, and addressing technical queries. I develop comprehensive chapters for Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP), ensuring compliance with local regulations and collaborating with cross-functional teams for impact assessment. Additionally, I manage sustainability certifications, analyze water balancing data, and produce design compliance reports. Environmental monitoring and reporting are integral to my role, involving the collation of reports, preparation of quarterly performance reports, and overseeing the renewal process of environmental clearances. Groundwater monitoring is another area of expertise, encompassing the management of submissions, coordination of sample testing, and mentorship of juniors. I actively contribute to bid support and commercial processes, utilizing project management skills, documentation expertise, and regulatory compliance knowledge in bids and proposals.

A typical day in my role involves a balanced mix of project management activities. Mornings are dedicated to planning and coordination with the project manager and team. The bulk of the day is spent on diverse tasks, including preparing environmental impact assessments and comprehensive construction environmental management plan chapters. I regularly engage with stakeholders, clients, and subcontractors to address queries, incorporating feedback into plans and reports. Data analysis, specifically for water balancing and environmental monitoring, is a key aspect, alongside reporting responsibilities that encompass environmental performance and compliance. Additionally, I manage groundwater monitoring submissions and coordinate sample testing. Bid support and commercial processes, including regulatory compliance and project management tasks, are integral. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, mentoring junior members, and staying updated on industry advancements round out my day. Overall, the routine reflects the dynamic and multifaceted nature of environmental project management.

I find immense joy in my environmental project management role because it allows me to actively contribute to positive environmental outcomes. Engaging in diverse projects, from reassessing impact to implementing sustainable practices, aligns with my passion for environmental sustainability. The dynamic mix of responsibilities, including stakeholder collaboration and data analysis, keeps my work fulfilling. Additionally, the opportunity to mentor and work with a dedicated team adds to the overall satisfaction of making a meaningful impact.

In this Industry, gaining experience feels like advancing levels in a game - it's both enjoyable and demanding. Even with 4.5 years on this exciting journey, I recognize there's always more to discover and master. One unique challenge I encounter involves delving into lengthy research sessions for answers. While it may seem like a hurdle, the bright side is that the more time I invest in refining my skills, the more proficient I become. So, despite the ticking clock and the challenge of limited experience, it adds an intriguing element, ensuring I continually elevate my game in this dynamic field.

I hold a bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering with an initial career focus on the Oil and Gas Industry. While working in a Lubricants trading firm, I felt a lack of fulfillment and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the planet. This realization prompted me to explore opportunities for a master's degree, leading me to the Environmental and Energy Engineering course. From my undergraduate days, I've had a deep connection with environmental subjects, excelling in them due to my commitment to preserving, protecting, and enhancing communities. After completing my Masters, I discovered my true passion for the Environment sector, driven by a strong sense of environmental and sustainability values cultivated since my undergrad days. Growing up in the UAE, where fossil fuels are dominant, I gained a firsthand understanding of the environmental challenges we face. This realization fueled my commitment to contributing to the transition towards sustainable energy solutions, motivating my choice to work in the Environmental and Energy Engineering field. The impactful projects I engaged in during my undergrad days, focusing on Hydrogen energy, Waste management, and Life cycle assessment, solidified my conviction that my heart and interests lie in environmental and sustainability endeavors.

I utilise key skills like Environmental Impact Assessment, Environmental Monitoring & Compliance, Sustainability Rating & Compliance, Health and Safety Monitoring, and Project Management as a Bid Coordinator, drawing on my MSc in Environmental and Energy Engineering.

Professional career experience:
Environmental and Sustainability Consultant, 2024 – Present
Egis Design and Project Management, Dubai, UAE

Environmental Scientist – September 2023 – January 2024
Graduate Environmental Scientist, Civil & Infrastructure – September 2021 – September 2023
AECOM Middle East, Dubai, UAE

Environment, Health, and Safety Intern – May 2021 – September 2021
Emerson Automation Solutions – ETC Foundry, Hamriyah Free zone, Sharjah, UAE

Junior Technical and Business Development Engineer, June 2018 – July 2019
Kemipex FZE. – Dubai, UAE

In the future, I see myself not only reaching top management within the environmental sector in the next five years but also continuously enhancing my skill set by pursuing additional qualifications. I am committed to staying abreast of emerging trends in the field, and one of my aspirations is to embark on a PhD journey in Environment and Sustainability. This endeavor will allow me to delve deeper into research and contribute valuable insights to the industry.

As I progress in my career, I am actively exploring my niche within the environmental sector, aiming to bring a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities it presents. Beyond corporate roles, I foresee transitioning into the academic realm, where I can seamlessly blend my passion for environmental advocacy with teaching. The prospect of nurturing young minds about the significance of the environment and its potential for positive impact fuels my long-term career aspirations. This multifaceted approach, combining leadership in top management with an academic focus, reflects my commitment to making enduring contributions to the field of environmental sustainability.

My advice to students considering a career in environmental and sustainability-related fields is to follow your passion with unwavering determination. Choose this course if you have a fire in your heart to know more about the environment and are genuinely enthusiastic about making a positive impact. In today's dynamic world, it's common to study one thing and work in another field, but the key is to align your career with what truly fuels your passion, not just conforming to societal expectations.

Remember, pursuing your passion in environmental and sustainability studies is not just a career choice; it's a commitment to contributing meaningfully to our planet's well-being. The challenges and opportunities in this field are vast, and your genuine interest and dedication will be the driving force behind your success. So, step into this exciting journey with the belief that your passion can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career that goes beyond professional satisfaction - it aligns with a greater purpose of creating a sustainable and healthier world for us all.

Thank you, University of Sheffield, for providing an exceptional platform that has allowed me to perform at my best and find joy in every task I undertake daily. The course, professors, and curriculum have not only deepened my understanding but also ignited a greater passion for my field of study. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to continue this journey by joining a PhD program with you, building on the invaluable experiences and knowledge gained during my time at your esteemed institution.