Green career spotlight: Kwabena Twumasi

Welcome to our interview series where we speak with purpose-driven and sustainability-focused professionals from around the globe. Every few weeks, we’ll dive into their journeys, learn about their wins and challenges, and the resources they couldn’t do without.

Prepare to be inspired and learn something new!

Today’s guest is Kwabena Twumasi – Project Manager, Sustainability from Germany.

Please tell us a little bit about who you are, your background, and your current job. What inspired you to start a career in sustainability and what was your journey to where you are

My name is Kwabena Twumasi, a professional with over nine years of experience in international development, focusing on sustainability, environmental governance, and climate change. I have had the privilege to work on projects funded by organizations like GIZ, the UN, and the EU, leading and contributing to the development, appraisal, and implementation of over 12 high-level projects. These initiatives have spanned critical areas, including sustainable energy, natural resources management, and climate change adaptation.

My journey into sustainability was fueled by a passion for preserving the environment and promoting sustainable practices, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Witnessing the challenges that communities face due to environmental degradation and the lack of sustainable energy solutions inspired me to dedicate my career to making a tangible impact. Currently, as a freelancing consultant, I assist organizations in developing project ideas and writing winning grant proposals within the sustainability sector, ensuring that I continue contributing to the global effort toward a more sustainable future.

What’s your day-to-day like? 

My day-to-day routine is dynamic, reflecting my diverse roles in sustainability and project management. Based in Germany, I maintain strong connections with ongoing projects in Africa, ensuring effective contributions across continents. My mornings often involve setting priorities, reviewing project progress, and conducting virtual meetings with teams in different time zones to align efforts and troubleshoot issues. Whether focusing on sustainable energy, environmental protection, or climate change, my goal is always to guide these projects toward impactful outcomes.

A significant portion of my day is dedicated to developing project proposals and writing grants, leveraging my extensive experience, including securing over €50 million in funding. Additionally, I am involved in policy development and advocacy, contributing to policy briefs, recommendations, and regulatory frameworks. When time permits, I also write blog posts on sustainability, sharing insights and contributing to broader environmental discussions. You can explore my writings on my blog here: https://medium.com/@kwabena.twumasi

What do you like the most about the work you do? 

What I love most about my work is the opportunity to use sustainable solutions to address significant socioeconomic challenges. Whether developing renewable energy projects for underserved communities or implementing initiatives to protect natural habitats, my focus is always on creating lasting, positive impacts. For me, sustainability is not just about environmental stewardship; it’s about fostering resilience in communities and ensuring economic growth benefits everyone without compromising the future.

Merging environmental goals with socioeconomic development is incredibly rewarding. It allows me to see the direct impact of my efforts, such as communities gaining access to sustainable energy or policies that boost local economies while enhancing resource efficiency. This holistic approach to problem-solving drives me daily, as I aim to contribute to a movement that harmonizes human development with the preservation of our planet.

How does your work address societal and/or environmental issues?

Sustainability is about achieving social, economic, and ecological goals. The projects I’ve worked on address these interconnected issues by implementing sustainable solutions that improve quality of life while preserving natural resources. Through my involvement in international development projects with organizations like GIZ, the UN, and the EU, I’ve helped reduce environmental degradation, promote renewable energy, and support climate change adaptation, tackling the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and conservation simultaneously.

For instance, by managing forest restoration and sustainable energy projects, I’ve contributed to reducing carbon emissions, combating deforestation, and promoting biodiversity. My work in developing policy frameworks like the Wood Fuel Regulation and Renewable Energy Act integrates environmental protection into governance, ensuring the conservation of natural resources and providing equitable access to clean energy for all.

In your experience, what are the main challenges of working with mission-driven and sustainability-focused businesses? 

Working with mission-driven and sustainability-focused businesses presents unique challenges, such as balancing mission and financial viability. These organizations often prioritize social or environmental goals over profitability, making it difficult to maintain financial sustainability. Aligning sustainability efforts with financial realities, like cost management and revenue generation, is essential for long-term success.

Another challenge is navigating complex regulatory environments and engaging stakeholders. Compliance with varying regulations across regions and sectors can be resource-intensive, requiring a deep understanding of policy landscapes. Additionally, managing stakeholder engagement, ensuring trust, and aligning diverse interests with the organization’s mission are crucial to sustaining growth without compromising core values.

Is there anything that you do outside of your job that is driven by similar (sustainability) objectives?  

Outside of my professional work, I am deeply committed to sustainability-driven initiatives through blogging, capacity building, and mentorship. I regularly blog about sustainability and climate change, sharing insights and raising awareness to engage with a broader audience. This keeps me aligned with the latest trends and ensures my efforts are informed by current best practices.

Additionally, I conduct training and workshops on sustainable practices in developing countries, empowering communities to implement long-term solutions. I also mentor young professionals in sustainability, guiding their career development and helping them navigate the challenges of working in mission-driven fields.

In your opinion, what are the top skills necessary to be successful at a “green job”? 

Success in a “green job” requires a blend of technical expertise and strong project management skills. Having a solid foundation in the relevant technical knowledge—such as renewable energy or environmental science—enables professionals to address environmental challenges effectively. Equally important are project management skills, which ensure that sustainability initiatives are executed efficiently, meeting both objectives and constraints.

In addition, problem-solving, innovation, communication, and collaboration are essential. Green jobs often involve tackling complex issues that demand critical thinking and innovative approaches. Effective communication and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders are vital to articulating sustainability goals and achieving them. Lastly, adaptability and continuous learning are crucial for staying ahead in the dynamic sustainability field, allowing professionals to implement the most effective strategies.

What green careers/sectors do you see growing the fastest right now and/or will become mainstream within the next 10 years?

Green careers and sectors are expanding rapidly, with some poised to become mainstream within the next decade. Renewable energy, including solar and wind, is seeing significant growth as global efforts to reduce carbon emissions increase. This sector is expected to create millions of jobs as countries transition to cleaner energy sources. Similarly, sustainable agriculture is growing due to the rising demand for organic and sustainable food production, with innovations like vertical farming and precision agriculture driving this expansion.

Additionally, the circular economy, electric vehicles (EVs), sustainable transport, and green building sectors are also gaining momentum. The move towards EVs and sustainable public transportation is boosting demand for related professionals, while sustainable urban development is creating opportunities for green building experts and urban planners. Furthermore, careers in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing, as well as climate change adaptation, are becoming increasingly important as businesses and governments prioritize sustainability and resilience. These sectors are becoming essential to the global economy, offering vast opportunities for those committed to environmental stewardship.

What are the most common mistakes or misperceptions you have seen when it comes to green careers? 

One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that green jobs are exclusively for those with environmental science backgrounds or those who are deeply passionate about environmental causes. In reality, green jobs span a wide range of sectors, including finance, engineering, construction, technology, and law. Professionals in these fields are increasingly needed to help drive sustainable practices across industries.

Another common misconception is that green jobs are low-paying or less lucrative than traditional roles. While this might have been true in the early days of the green economy, the landscape has changed significantly. Many green jobs, particularly in renewable energy, sustainable finance, and corporate sustainability, offer competitive salaries and benefits.

People also often assume that green jobs are confined to sectors like renewable energy or conservation. However, the green economy touches nearly every industry, including agriculture, transportation, manufacturing, and even technology. The need for sustainability professionals is growing across a wide array of sectors, driven by the increasing importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria.

Could you highlight some of the key differences and potential green career paths within industries/sectors you’ve worked with?

Several green career paths are emerging within the fields of renewable energy, environmental protection, and sustainable agriculture. In renewable energy, roles such as Solar Energy Specialist and Wind Energy Engineer are gaining prominence as the world increasingly shifts towards sustainable energy solutions. These professionals play a vital role in designing, installing, and maintaining renewable energy systems.

In environmental protection and climate change, careers like Climate Policy Advisor and Environmental Compliance Specialist are critical. These roles involve developing policies to mitigate climate impacts and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, the circular economy and sustainable finance sectors are expanding, with positions like ESG Analyst becoming essential as businesses focus on sustainability and resilience. These careers not only contribute to environmental goals but also offer meaningful opportunities for those dedicated to sustainability.

As you reflect on your career journey, what challenges would you pinpoint, especially those shared by individuals in similar roles?

Reflecting on my career journey, one of the significant challenges I’ve faced—and which many in similar roles likely encounter—is managing the complexities that arise from engaging with diverse stakeholders who often have varying objectives, working ethics, and operational styles. In international development projects, collaboration often involves government agencies, NGOs, local communities, and private sector partners. Each of these stakeholders brings unique priorities and expectations, making it challenging to align them toward a common goal. Successfully navigating these complexities requires a deep understanding of each stakeholder’s perspective, effective communication, and the ability to negotiate and find common ground.

Additionally, the cultural differences and organizational norms across stakeholders can create friction, especially when working across different countries and regions. These differences can complicate decision-making and project implementation, requiring adaptability and cultural competence. Leading with empathy, clarity, and a collaborative spirit becomes essential in such scenarios, ensuring that despite these challenges, all parties can work together effectively to achieve a successful outcome.

And what were the most rewarding moments?

The most rewarding moments in my career have always been when I witness the lasting socioeconomic impacts of the projects I’ve implemented on beneficiary communities or local people, even years after the project has officially ended. Seeing the tangible, enduring benefits that well-executed projects bring to communities in need is incredibly fulfilling and reinforces my commitment to sustainability and development work.

For instance, during my time working on the Energizing Development project, we provided small and medium-scale farmers with solar irrigation pumping systems to improve water access for irrigation. This initiative was designed to increase crop yields and boost income for these farmers. Even seven years after the project’s completion, feedback from the farmers indicates that these solar irrigation systems continue to significantly impact their livelihoods, enabling them to grow more crops throughout the year and improve their economic stability. Knowing that the work I’ve done continues to make a difference long after I’ve moved on to other projects is deeply satisfying and motivates me to continue making a positive impact through my work.

Any “lessons learned” or advice you can share with others looking to succeed in their purpose-driven career? 

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned throughout my career is the importance of persistence and adaptability. In purpose-driven careers like sustainability, challenges such as limited resources, shifting stakeholder priorities, and complex, long-term objectives are common. Success in this field requires a steadfast commitment to your goals while maintaining the flexibility to adapt strategies as circumstances evolve.

Another key lesson is the significance of collaboration and effective communication. Working with a diverse range of stakeholders, each with unique objectives and approaches, is a hallmark of sustainability work. Understanding and respecting these differences while finding common ground is crucial for driving projects forward. My advice to anyone pursuing a purpose-driven career is to remain passionate and focused on the bigger picture. Although progress may be slow at times, the impact of your efforts can be profound and far-reaching, making the journey truly worthwhile.

What inspires you every day to wake up and keep going? 

What inspires me every day to wake up and keep going is the profound impact that sustainability work can have on communities and the environment. Knowing that my efforts contribute to creating a better, more resilient world for future generations motivates me to push forward, even in the face of significant challenges. The idea that I can develop solutions to address critical issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and energy access, and see tangible benefits in people’s lives, reinforces the purpose and value of my work.

Moreover, the continuous learning and growth inherent in sustainability work—whether through new technologies, innovative approaches, or deeper understanding of complex issues—keeps me engaged and eager to make a difference every day. The thought of how small-scale farmers now benefit from solar irrigation systems, improving their livelihoods years after the project’s completion, is a constant reminder of the meaningful impact I can have.