Women in Project Engineering – Natasha Asaba

In a field traditionally dominated by men, Natasha is one of the African women who are successfully building a career in project engineering in the electricity sector. Her work is crucial in shaping a stable and sustainable power sector in Uganda;

Hello Natasha, thank you for joining us today. It is wonderful to feature another Project Engineer in a row
Hello! Thank you for considering to share my story. And, thanks to Daphne Phillipah Nakabugo for the nomination.

Please give our audience a brief introduction about yourself
My name is Natasha Asaba from Uganda. Currently, I serve as a Project Engineer at the Electricity Regulatory Authority. In this role, I am responsible for licensing power projects and providing technical expert advice on crucial aspects of the power sector. This includes demand and supply, policies, regulations, and electricity supply security.

Walk us through your career journey into Project Engineering
From my childhood at St. Theresa, Namagunga, and Kings College Budo, I was a curious soul, drawn to both the vibrancy of performing arts and the logic of science. I thrived in dance and drama, while simultaneously finding profound satisfaction in unraveling the mysteries of physics and mathematics. Though history and literature were never my strong suits, I discovered something remarkable: my passion for performing arts was actually fueling my confidence and resilience, qualities that proved invaluable in my later STEM career.

For me, science was always about problem-solving and answering questions. This passion led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at Makerere University. During my undergraduate studies, I got an internship with the World Bank-funded Energy for Rural Transformation Project. This was under Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. I witnessed firsthand how access to electricity directly improved lives in rural communities—better education, better health care, secure communities—solidified my desire to become a clean energy expert.

After graduation, I joined ATX Technology. This helped hone my project implementation skills and discovered a passion for project development and management. This foundation led me to Umeme Limited as a graduate trainee engineer. Here I gained a comprehensive understanding of the distribution and sale of electricity. My success in the program earned me the role of Project Engineer in the Capital and Contracts Division, where I led projects aimed at enhancing the quality of supply of electricity supply.

Finally, in 2022, I joined the Electricity Regulatory Authority as a Project Engineer, where I continue to contribute to the advancement of Uganda’s energy sector.

Talk to us about some of the big challenges you have faced on this Project Engineering journey
I have frequently battled imposter syndrome, those persistent doubts that question my capabilities. However, the unwavering support of my family, friends, and the network at large, with their words of encouragement and appreciation, has been instrumental in silencing those inner critics. A simple ‘well done’ has often been more powerful than I imagined.

As a female engineer, I have encountered unconscious biases that assume women are less technically competent than men. This has required me to work exceptionally hard to demonstrate my skills and break through those preconceived notions. While demanding, it has ultimately pushed me to refine my abilities and develop the resilience necessary to succeed.

How have you been able to navigate these challenges; what inspires you to move forward?
My greatest inspiration comes from my mother. She had me when she was just 16, a teenage mother facing immense challenges. She was forced to drop out of school, was ostracized from her home, and was told her future was ruined. But she defied every expectation. She ensured I received the best education possible, attending the finest schools in Uganda. She never allowed her circumstances to define her, and always strived for excellence. At some point, she was advised to settle for schools within her ‘means.’ Instead, it ignited her determination to work harder and provide me with the best. Watching her overcome these obstacles inspires me every day to push my limits and never settle for mediocrity.

Wow! A shout-out to your mother.

Let us talk about some of the most prestigious moments in your Project Engineering path
I am a Registered Professional Engineer with the ERB and hold a Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. In 2024, I was selected to represent Uganda as a Mandela Washington Fellow. This was a testament to my leadership and potential. I was also chosen to participate in the Youth for Sustainable Energy Fellowship 2023, empowering young Africans in the global energy transition. Notably, I was featured in Umeme’s Pulse Magazine for successfully leading four major projects. These projects improved electricity access in line with UN SDG7. To mention but a few.

Who are you outside of the Project Engineering walls?
Outside of my professional life, I am a devoted Christian who finds joy in dance and exploring the world through travel. I also embrace the thrill of adrenaline-fueled experiences. Yes, I am an adrenaline junky!. Ultimately, my deepest hope is to leave the world a better place than I found it. I want to do that both through my work and my personal endeavors.

What is your favorite quote?
I have a number of favorite quotes. Allow me to share my favorite verse; Psalm 23:4. “Though I walk in the valley of deep shadow, I fear no harm, for you are with me; your rod and your staff reassure me.” This is the verse from which I draw my strength to face whatever challenge

One of my favourite Quotes: “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

What is your word of encouragement for a young girl interested in joining Project Engineering in the electricity field or any other STEM field?
Remain true to who you are and empower yourself to create the life you want, do not let anyone else dictate your path. You will achieve everything you set your mind to.

Thank you, Natasha, for taking the time to walk us through your experiences and the impact of your work. Your story will undoubtedly inspire many more women to pursue careers in STEM and contribute to Africa’s energy future.