Susan Bakesha is a gender specialist with over 15 years of experience working with local, national, and international non-profit and public institutions to build the capacity of individuals and groups in gender awareness, gender auditing, gender mainstreaming in policies and programs, gender-based violence, gender-responsive budgeting, advocacy, and networking.  I have participated in designing and implementing several gender projects and programs in governance, leadership, and energy.  I am currently employed by the Ministry of Water, Energy, and Minerals, Zanzibar as a Gender Specialist. My major role is to spearhead the implementation of the  Gender Work Plan under the Zanzibar Energy Sector Transformation and Access Project (ZESTA). The goal of the Gender Work Plan is to close the gender gap in the Zanzibar energy sector. My work has exposed me to different contexts and situations that require appreciation of diversity. I am fluent in English, a good communicator, and an excellent adult trainer with skills in experiential learning methodologies.