When Opportunity Isn’t Given, Create It

Resilience at the Heart of Progress

We are living through a historic crossroad, where geopolitical uncertainty meets unprecedented opportunity for transformation. But what if the future of progress doesn’t lie in large institutions, but in people, communities, and bold leadership? In this episode, H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, former President of Iceland, joins Reem Al Mussabah to reflect on how nations like Iceland and the UAE transformed from resource-constrained economies into global leaders in renewable energy and innovation. From geothermal breakthroughs to the rise of Abu Dhabi as a clean energy hub, he shares insights on how change happens, not through scale alone, but through vision, trust, and collective action. With reflections on mentorship, public service, and the importance of trust, this episode challenges conventional models of progress and offers a compelling case for a more inclusive, bottom-up approach to change.

Season 2: Trailer

The conversations continue. Words of Wisdom returns for a second season, bringing together inspiring women leaders to share the experiences, lessons, and perspectives that have shaped their journeys and continue to influence the future. From leadership and innovation to purpose and resilience, each conversation offers insights designed to inspire the next generation of women changemakers.

Clarity Creates Impact

Solving a problem is only half the work. Communicating the solution, clearly, confidently, and compellingly, is what turns ideas into real-world impact. In this episode, Michael Liebreich (Managing Partner, EcoPragma Capital; CEO, Liebreich Associates) joins Maryam Al Qubaisi (Director, International Relations Office, Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, UAE) to explore the intersection of communication and leadership. They discuss the future of clean energy, the role of storytelling in climate action, and why leaders must spend as much time sharing what they’ve learned as they do building solutions. An essential conversation for anyone shaping the future of sustainable energy.

The Power of Collective Insight

No single country, institution, or leader can solve the climate crisis alone. Real progress happens when people work together, sharing knowledge, aligning priorities, and amplifying each other’s strengths. In this episode, Alison Hall (Deputy Head of Department, UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) and Eduarda Zoghbi (Founder, Mpower Brasil; WiSER Pioneer) discuss the power of diplomacy, collective learning, and south-north partnerships in accelerating sustainability transitions. A thoughtful exploration of cooperation, trust, and the global leadership we need now.

When Opportunity Isn’t Given, Create It

What do you do when the rooms, networks, or opportunities you need aren’t built for you? You build your own and bring others with you. In this episode, Jessica Robinson (Partner, Solve Strategies) and Michelle Li (Co-Founder & Executive Director, Women & Climate NYC) explore what it means for women to lead with purpose, create their own platforms, and shape global change from the ground up. From network-building to breaking systemic barriers, they share practical insights for women navigating sustainability, leadership, and influence. A powerful discussion on courage, community, and rewriting the rules.