From Youth Trainee to Campus Leader: My Journey with Energy Garden by Salma de Almenara
When I first came across Energy Garden’s youth training program, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve always had a love for nature, but as I grew older, that evolved into a passion for sustainability and green technologies. I knew I wanted to make a difference by helping integrate renewable energy and sustainable practices into more sectors — a goal that’s still at the core of what I aspire to achieve.
Joining Energy Garden as an intern turned out to be an invaluable experience. My academic background provided me with theoretical knowledge on sustainability, and Energy Garden furthered my knowledge. Energy Garden provided me with hands-on, real-world experiences. I got to see how environmental projects can truly impact communities, and I had the chance to work alongside people who shared the same passion for making a difference.
“During my internship, I contributed to meaningful projects”
I partook in the learning of the technology and creation of solar panels and their involvement in the local energy system. Additionally, I contributed to revitalizing urban spaces by improving soil quality and transforming neglected areas into thriving plots that produce fresh vegetables, promoting sustainable urban farming practices. Additionally, I had the chance to gain valuable insights by connecting with industry experts at Pioneer Point Partners and Triple Point. which deepened my knowledge of the sustainability sector’s future growth opportunities and dynamics in the industry. Collaborating with the key figures at Energy Garden, including the CEO and senior coordinators, showed me the importance of business models and the role of green community development in driving positive environmental change.
“That experience inspired me to bring sustainability initiatives to my university. ”
I founded the Sustainability Society at Coventry University London, where I’ve worked to put circular economy principles into action on campus. We’ve run workshops using tools like RStudio to analyze data, hosted expert panels on renewable energy companies, and organized community events to raise awareness about sustainability.
Contributing to the energy industry remains a key priority for me, and I’m excited by the opportunities for growth and skill development as I navigate the early stages of my career. There is still so much to learn, and I look forward to exploring the possibilities ahead. Looking in retrospect, my time at Energy Garden shaped both my career goals and my approach to sustainability. It drove me to the next step of a leadership role and the practical knowledge to make real change. My journey in the sustainability pathway is still unfolding, with endless opportunities to explore, grow, and contribute to innovative solutions that shape a greener future.
Salma completed her traineeship in summer 2024. Energy Garden looks forward to seeing the journey she will take!
We encourage other young people aged 18-24 to apply to our Programme and learn more about sustainable industries, whilst developing employment skills and becoming part of a new community!