SEEN, building confidence and community for women in energy
Client Context
The energy industry continues to face a persistent gender imbalance. Women remain under‑represented, particularly in technical and senior roles, and the gender pay gap sits at over 20%. At the same time, the Energy Transition demands a broader range of voices, perspectives and leadership styles.
Against this backdrop and in collaboration with The People Portfolio, we developed SEEN — a programme designed specifically to support women working across the energy sector to grow their confidence, strengthen their professional identity and build a supportive peer network.
The Challenge
Many women in the sector described similar experiences: difficulty articulating career ambitions, limited confidence stepping into opportunities, and a sense of being one of only a few women in the room. Others were returning after career breaks and needed support to rebuild momentum.
The challenge was not simply skills development — it was creating the conditions for women to feel confident, visible and connected in a traditionally male‑dominated environment.
Core Question
How do we help women in the energy sector develop confidence, community and practical skills so they can lead, contribute and progress on their own terms?
Our Approach
We designed SEEN as a 10‑week blended programme combining one‑to‑one coaching, in‑person Learning Labs, and a peer‑learning community. The structure is intentionally simple, human and practical.
We start with a group launch call to set expectations, build rapport and understand what participants want from the programme. This is followed by an individual check‑in to clarify goals and understand each participant’s starting point.
The core of the programme is delivered through three in‑person Learning Labs — focused on mental fitness, self‑confidence, strengths, communication and navigating difficult situations. Participants work with real scenarios, share insights and build relationships that continue long after the programme ends.
We close with a one‑to‑one coaching session to help each participant reflect, consolidate learning and take their next steps with confidence.
How We Worked
We kept the environment warm, informal and grounded. We challenged unhelpful assumptions, created space for honest reflection and used practical tools that women could apply immediately at work.
We ensured activities worked for all career stages and allowed participants to bring real‑world challenges into the room. The tone throughout was supportive but stretching — encouraging participants to step forward without overwhelming them.
Contribution from the Participants
The women who joined SEEN brought openness, thoughtfulness and generosity. They shared experiences, tested new ideas, supported each other and contributed to a sense of community that grew stronger with every session.
Their willingness to show up, be honest and try new approaches shaped the quality and impact of the programme.
Key Findings
Across the cohort, several patterns emerged:
Confidence grows when women understand their strengths and see the value they bring.
Peer support reduces isolation and accelerates progress — especially in environments where women are in the minority.
Simple, practical tools for communication and boundary setting make a measurable difference in day‑to‑day work.
One‑to‑one coaching gives women space to reflect, prioritise and take action.
Community matters. People thrive when they feel seen, supported and understood.
Participants left the programme with a clearer sense of identity, more confidence in speaking up, and a stronger network around them.
Emerging Impact
SEEN is already helping participants articulate their ambitions, seek out opportunities and build more intentional careers. We’ve seen women take on new responsibilities, initiate conversations they previously avoided and connect with colleagues and mentors more confidently.
The Communities of Practice created through the programme continue beyond the formal sessions, providing ongoing support and connection.
Why LEEWAY
We specialise in creating human, grounded and practical development experiences — especially in sectors where confidence, identity and visibility matter. SEEN reflects our belief that when people are supported to understand themselves and each other, they expand their influence and impact.
This programme helps women in energy step forward, speak up and be genuinely seen.