In a groundbreaking display of unity, Iceland's women and non-binary individuals, including the Prime Minister, convened for a full-day strike on October 24, demanding an end to the nation's enduring gender pay gap and widespread gender-based violence. Despite Iceland's global reputation for gender equality, disparities persist, with some female professionals earning 21% less than their male counterparts. This powerful strike coincides with global efforts to promote gender equality in the energy sector, where women represent just 16% of the workforce. The Iceland School of Energy (ISE) is dedicated to this cause, offering a Women in Energy Scholarship and achieving a 66% female enrollment rate.

Yonathan "Hary" Hutagalung, an Indonesian geologist at the Iceland School of Energy (ISE), broadened his focus from high-temperature to low-temperature geothermal systems at the International Summer School on Thermogeology in Slovenia. This immersive experience, combining intensive learning and cultural exchange, has deepened Hary's commitment to sustainable energy and inspired his peers at ISE.

Pia Milena Leminski, a first-year student at the Iceland School of Energy (ISE), embarked on a journey at Landsvirkjun, the national power company of Iceland. Through her internships, she gained hands-on experience analyzing wind data and contributing to the operation planning of hydropower plants. Pia's story highlights the importance of bridging theory and practice, inspiring future innovators to pursue practical opportunities in the field of sustainable energy.

First-year Iceland School of Energy (ISE) student Diego Augusto Costa successfully transitioned from academic learning to real-world application, securing an internship with leading engineering firm Mannvit after connecting with ISE alumnus and Mannvit engineer, Kristján Vilbergsson. At Mannvit, Diego applies his academic knowledge to real-world sustainability challenges, producing life cycle assessment reports and earning credits towards his Masters degree. Diego's journey exemplifies the power of initiative and the valuable connections fostered within the ISE community, and he looks forward to potentially completing his thesis project under Mannvit's guidance.