Ijja Aghnaj

General Info

What will be your most valuable contribution to your TechWomen mentorship?

As an agronomy engineer with expertise in training and accompanying farmers in the agricultural field, I can bring valuable contributions to the program like sharing my expertise in agronomy and agricultural practices. I can also assist in understanding challenges that Morocco faces related to climate change and sustainable agriculture and explain solutions adopted to face them. In addition to this, given my background in working with farmers, I have a strong network within the agricultural sector. I can leverage these connections to help build networks and establish partnerships in the agricultural field.

The Top Three Things I Would Like to Learn or Experience During my Mentorship

1. Learn how to launch projects in agriculture and green tech.
2. Develop expertise in leadership, project management, strategic thinking and business development.
3. Develop public speaking and self confidence skills.

Mentorship Characteristic

• Identify workshops or certificate programs to further my learning after the program has ended
• Focus on leadership skills building
• Focus on technical skills building
• Exposes me to new tools and platforms
• Gets me involved in day-to-day activities of the mentor and partnering company.

Ideal Company Type

I want the host company to relate to my work and have a focus in agriculture, climate change, natural resource management... etc. The size of the company is not very important for me, I just want a company that it is active within its environment and has a team of directors and employees who are passionate to work with me.

What are three adjectives that best describe you in the work place?

1. Serious
2. Hardworking
3. Enthusiastic

What impact will your mentorship have on your career and professional path?

Collaborating with a U.S. based mentor can have a significant impact on my career and professional path. It will provide me with opportunities to exchange knowledge and learn from other's experiences in the agricultural field. I can gain insights into innovative farming practices, cutting-edge technologies and advanced agricultural research methods that are being utilized in the United States. My mentor can help me identify areas for improvement and offer advice on career advancement opportunities. I can also expand my professional network through the TechWomen internship.

After participating in the TechWomen program, how will you leverage your mentorship experience to make an impact in your home country?

Thanks to Techwomen I will discover the latest technologies by leading companies in the USA and exchange experiences with different women from all over the world. I will use this experience to impact positively farmers and rural women. I hope to be a mentor in order to share my knowledge with them, and continue to organize, with the Chamber of Agriculture and other partners, trainings and awareness-raising caravans on the latest agronomic technologies to benefit farmers and women. I will use my network gained through TechWomen to support and finance agricultural projects which can improve the income of rural populations.

Work History

Years of Full-time Work Experience

6

Primary Professional Focus

• Energy, renewable technology or green technology
• Scientist and researcher
• Technical project and program manager

Education History