The Atlantica Centre for Energy welcomes Emily Al-Harazi as its new Director of Communications and Operations.
We are thrilled to welcome Emily in this new role to expand our efforts around energy literacy and improve operational efficiency. Energy literacy has consistently been a top priority for the organization and its members, and adding to the team to focus primarily on communications is a step in the right direction.
In a recent discussion with Emily, we learned more about her professional background, the new role, and what she is looking forward to the most in this new and exciting journey with the Atlantica Centre for Energy.
Q. Tell us a little bit about your academic and professional experience before starting at Atlantica Centre for Energy.
A. I received my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences from the University of Guelph in 2019 with an academic focus on local environmental management, sustainability, and clean energy innovation.
I was given the opportunity to work for a professor at the University of Guelph for two years where I gained a wide range of knowledge on communicating with Conservation Authorities, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, and other academic officials on climate change projects and research.
After I graduated, it was difficult to find a career in my field due to the pandemic, but I found myself in a Production Supervisor role for two years where I was able to focus on my leadership and operational skills. Since 2020, I have become an avid reader, passionate about sharing with others how reading can spark joy in your life. Over the last two years, I’ve opened a small business where I sell handmade book accessories virtually and at local markets across New Brunswick. Being a business owner has taught me the importance of digital marketing, networking, and community.
Q. What does this new role with Atlantica Centre for Energy entail and why is it important to you?
A. I know for any professional team, adding a new role can be very beneficial for productivity. Atlantica Centre for Energy is a small team determined to meaningfully contribute to the energy sector, and by adding this new role we will be able to more actively engage with and expand our network.
Some specific priorities I’m excited to take on are social media and content development for LinkedIn, Twitter, the monthly newsletter, and website. What those who follow us can expect is up-to-date announcements and highlights on exciting things happening in the energy sector throughout Atlantic Canada. I will also be assisting with event planning and operations to keep things organized for the team and our members.
I have always been a very organized, determined, and hardworking individual, and I’m looking forward to contributing to Atlantica Centre for Energy’s mandate to foster sustainable growth in the energy sector in the Atlantic region.
Q. What are you looking forward to the most in your new role?
A. I will admit I’m one of the many people who recently moved here from Ontario and purchased my first home with my mom and fiancé. While I may be contributing to increasing the population, I’m passionate about the community here in Saint John, and have been searching for a career that aligns with my skills and passions; I believe that Atlantica Centre for Energy fits both well.
I’m incredibly interested in learning more about the energy sector here in Atlantic Canada, and how it will continue to evolve as a climate change solution. Being a part of such an incredible team where we interact with so many different players in the energy sector will allow me to learn more about renewable and non-renewable energy, and how the sector can contribute to helping Canada reach net-zero emissions in the future.
I’m looking forward to working with a tight-knit team who all care about improving energy literacy, and meeting many of our members who contribute so much to the energy sector here in Atlantic Canada.