About Us
ABOUT YES-DC
Young Energy Specialists and Development Co-operation (YES-DC) is an association of students and young professionals interested and/or working in the field of energy and development co-operation. YES-DC was found in October 1994, as a means to create a network and to facilitate the exchange of information and experiences. Since March 1996, YES-DC has officially been established as an association.
YES-DC HISTORY
On 15th October 1994, over twenty-five enthusiastic young professionals came together to discuss the future of energy. In the 1990’s, before the internet and social media, the need arose for a discussion platform to share knowledge and ideas. On 28th January 28 1995, a second meeting was organised, and Young Energy Specialists and Development Co-operation (YES-DC) was officially founded.
Since the beginning, the focus has been on both the Dutch energy system, and energy systems in developing countries. In the mid 2000’s, as the general thought was that the Dutch energy system was ‘finished’, the focus was increasingly laid on how we could help developing countries in their future energy needs.
However, as the impact of climate change was becoming more visible, the focus shifted back towards the Dutch energy system. How can we work towards a sustainable energy system, running on renewable energy sources? Many, many aspects of this complex issue have been discussed over the last years.
Throughout its history, YES-DC has been organising sessions to deepen our understanding of the challenges we face, and the solutions that are out there. The focus has mostly been a technical one, although also more ‘soft aspects’ around implementation have been discussed over the last years. YES-DC still organises several sessions every year.
YES-DC MISSION
ENGAGING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS IN THE FIELD OF RENEWABLE AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH KNOWLEDGE SHARING, NETWORKING AND COMMUNITY BUILDING.
YES-DC MEMBERS
The members of YES-DC are young professionals and students in the field of energy and/or sustainability. They work within local and international companies, government bodies, universities, research institutions, and NGOs. The board of YES-DC are honorary members, which besides their professional occupations takes care of the organisational and financial framework, and organises these knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities, considering the valuable input from its members along the way. The YES-DC Alumni are former board members, which gather once a year and are still part of the organization’s community.
YES-DC Board
Emma Assam
President/Chair
Emma is a lawyer admitted to the Nigerian Bar pursuing a master’s in Energy and Climate Law at the University of Groningen. Her expertise spans law, energy policy, climate change, and sustainability.
As a passionate advocate for renewable energy and human equity, Emma is dedicated to advancing the global transition to sustainable energy, focusing on energy consumption rights and promoting inclusion.
She is honored to serve as President of YES-DC (Young Energy Specialists and Development Cooperation), where she continues to drive youth engagement in sustainable energy initiatives.
Secretary
Ejiroghene Andrew Oruarume
Treasurer
Ejiroghene is an experienced professional with a background in engineering and sustainable development.
Based in the Netherlands, Ejiro holds a Bachelor’s degree in Wood Products and Biomaterials Engineering, a Master’s degree in Development Studies focusing on Environment and Sustainable Development from the International Institute of Social Studies of Erasmus University Rotterdam, and a certification in the Principles of Sustainable Finance from the Rotterdam School of Management.
With expertise in financial management, waste management and optimization, and energy transition, Ejiro brings strong analytical and strategic skills to his role as the Treasurer on the board of YES-DC, where he is dedicated to strengthening the organization’s financial resilience and supporting its mission to drive sustainable energy solutions.
Kelechi Nwogu
Communications Manager
Kelechi is a driven professional in strategic communications. She has 12 years of experience in communications and corporate social responsibility reporting and a passion for ESG that has shaped her path for the last five years.
Starting her journey with a bachelor’s in English Studies in Nigeria in 2010, she moved to the Netherlands to further her education, earning a master’s in International Communications Management in 2023.
Now, she’s pursuing an MBA, expanding her knowledge in business and finance, intending to become a business controller and help businesses navigate ESG challenges. Her approach to life is simple: “There’s always a way out of every challenge.” She doesn’t stop when faced with obstacles—she works through them.
Kelechi’s ambition isn’t loud, but steady. She moves forward, never stopping, always finding a way, driven by the belief that progress is made step by step, challenge by challenge.
