Ms. Hala Al-Hamawi | Environmental Politics | Best Researcher Award
PhD Candidate, at Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom.
Hala Al-Hamawi is a climate change expert and researcher with over seven years of expertise in sustainable development. Currently a PhD candidate at Nottingham Trent University, she has consistently worked on advancing climate finance, green growth strategies, and water sustainability. Hala’s professional journey spans global organizations such as the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and UNICEF, where she has contributed to innovative policies, green bonds, and impactful WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) projects. A recipient of prestigious awards like the Chevening Scholarship and NTU Bursary, she has actively participated in global climate negotiations, including COP26 and COP28. Hala’s dedication to empowering communities and advancing environmental resilience underscores her work and advocacy. 🌿
Professional Profile
Education 🎓
Hala holds a robust academic foundation in engineering and sustainability. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Social and Political Sciences at Nottingham Trent University (2023–Present), backed by a full NTU bursary. She earned her MSc in Advanced Engineering Management from the University of Birmingham in 2020, achieving distinction with a 72% score. Prior to that, she completed her BSc in Civil Engineering from Al-Balqa’ Applied University in 2016, with a GPA of 3.5/4 (Very Good). These academic achievements have equipped her with interdisciplinary knowledge spanning engineering, policy, and sustainable development frameworks. 📚
Professional Experience 💼
Hala has built a distinguished career in climate change and sustainable development. As a Climate Finance Senior Associate at GGGI (Feb 2023–Present), she spearheads climate finance policies, mobilizes resources for green bonds, and represents GGGI at COP28 and COP29. Previously, as an Accreditation and Compliance Specialist (2021–2023), she managed public-private dialogues and developed country programs exceeding $5 million. Hala’s work with UNICEF (2017–2019) included managing a £38.5 million WASH project in Zaatari Refugee Camp. Additionally, she contributed to infrastructure projects as Head of Infrastructure Projects at Action Against Hunger. Her career reflects a strong focus on resilience-building and sustainable growth. 🌎
Research Interests 🔬
Hala’s research interests focus on climate finance, water sustainability, and community resilience. She is particularly passionate about advancing national climate policies and integrating gender perspectives into climate action plans. Her work addresses challenges like water security in arid regions, public-private partnerships for green growth, and international climate negotiations. As a research assistant at Nottingham Trent University, she conducted extensive interviews and partnered with organizations to explore innovative solutions for climate adaptation. Hala’s commitment to environmental equity and evidence-based policymaking drives her academic and professional endeavors. 🌱
Awards 🏆
Hala’s exceptional work has been recognized through several prestigious awards. She received the NTU Bursary for her PhD, a full scholarship from Nottingham Trent University. In 2020, she earned the Chevening Award, funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, for her master’s degree. She also received funding to participate in COP26, supported by HRH Prince El Hassan bin Talal. These accolades highlight her commitment to sustainability and her contributions to global climate initiatives. 🌟
Top Notes Publications 📚
Hala has authored impactful publications addressing climate change and sustainability:
1. Policy Brief: Advancing Climate Change Policy in Jordan: Strengthening National, Regional, and International Positions (July 2022)
- Overview: This policy brief highlights Jordan’s efforts to align its climate change strategies with global sustainability frameworks. It provides actionable recommendations for enhancing climate adaptation and mitigation policies. The brief emphasizes fostering collaboration among national stakeholders and regional partners to amplify Jordan’s influence on international climate agendas.
- Key Contributions:
- Strengthening Jordan’s national climate policy framework.
- Addressing barriers to effective regional collaboration.
- Advocating for Jordan’s role in global climate negotiations.
- Cited By: Articles on regional climate finance strategies and water management policies.
2. Report: Jordan and the Challenge of Climate Change: A Report from COP26 (December 2021)
- Overview: This report provides a comprehensive summary of Jordan’s participation in COP26. It discusses the challenges and opportunities for advancing Jordan’s climate agenda, focusing on adaptation, mitigation, and finance. The report captures lessons learned and offers insights for future global climate events.
- Key Contributions:
- Analyzing Jordan’s climate finance landscape.
- Highlighting the importance of green growth initiatives.
- Presenting recommendations for stronger representation in international climate forums.
- Cited By: Studies on climate diplomacy and green financing mechanisms.
3. Policy Paper: Sustainable Water Supply in Jordan: Jordanian Young Water Professionals’ (JYWP) Inclusion and Perspectives (January 2021)
- Overview: This policy paper explores sustainable water management in Jordan, focusing on the inclusion of young water professionals in decision-making processes. It addresses Jordan’s water scarcity issues and advocates for innovative, youth-driven solutions to enhance water security.
- Key Contributions:
- Highlighting youth involvement in water governance.
- Addressing water scarcity challenges through policy recommendations.
- Encouraging capacity-building initiatives for JYWP.
- Cited By: Research on youth participation in environmental policy and sustainable water resource management.
Conclusion
Hala Al-Hamawi is highly qualified for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the climate finance and sustainability policy domain. Her strong academic background, international experience, high-level policy contributions, and leadership in global climate finance make her an excellent candidate.