Women in Energy Photo Contest: Mariia Tyshchenko

The Photographer Behind the Image

• Inspiration and background: 

  I was inspired by seeing that energy is not only about infrastructure and markets – it is about people, their dignity and opportunities. During the war, this matters even more: I want to help ensure that valuable people, including those facing barriers, are seen, supported and able to contribute, through fair and inclusive energy regulation.

  The biggest challenge facing women in the sector is changing gender stereotypes while balancing professional growth with family responsibilities, especially during wartime. As women take on traditionally male professions in the energy sector, they need equal opportunities, support and visibility. A GEDSI lens reminds us who energy policy ultimately serves: people with diverse needs and vulnerabilities. Energy enables people with disabilities to work and helps provide bread for Ukraine’s frontline defenders – showing why women’s perspectives are essential to building inclusive, resilient energy systems.

• Short biography:

  I hold a PhD in Economics, am an Associate Professor and an Honorary Doctor of Malmö University (Sweden), and am an expert in GEDSI, public administration and international cooperation. I currently serve as an Advisor to a member of the National Energy and Utilities Regulatory Commission (NEURC), where I contribute to gender auditing, international partnerships and the integration of social inclusion approaches into the energy sector. I also serve as an Advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration.

  In 2025, I served as an Advisor to the Minister of Energy of Ukraine on equal rights and opportunities for women and men and on the prevention of and response to gender-based violence. Since 2011, I have been Executive Director of the NGO “Poruch”, leading national and international initiatives on gender equality, human rights, community development and Ukraine’s recovery. My work increasingly focuses on ensuring that energy policies and institutions are inclusive, responsive to diverse needs and resilient in the face of war. I have extensive experience managing international research, policy and practical projects with USAID, GIZ, UN Women, IOM, the Swedish Institute, SKL International and other partners. My expertise combines energy policy, gender equality, social inclusion, institutional development and international cooperation.