Taking Office: Programme Committee of the 2026 Emerging Water Leaders Forum
Published on Apr 21, 2026
The Emerging Water Leaders Forum 2026 will take place during the IWA World Water Congress and Exhibition 2026, bringing together young professionals from across the globe to exchange ideas, build connections and contribute to shaping the future of the water sector.
Designed as a platform to empower the next generation of water leaders, the Forum offers opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange and leadership development through interactive sessions, discussions and collaborative activities.
Introducing the 2026 Programme Committee
The Programme Committee for the 2026 edition has now been appointed, bringing together a diverse group of young water professionals representing different regions, disciplines and sectors. Selected through a competitive process, the committee reflects a strong balance of geographic representation, technical expertise and professional backgrounds.
The 2026 Programme Committee includes:
- Chelsea Hayward (Australia), Chair of the EWL Forum 2026
- Natalie Lamb (United Kingdom), Local IWA YWP Country Chapter Representative
- Denisa Cadkova (Czech Republic), Rapporteurs Lead and Coordination
- Victoria Belcher (United States), EWL Forum Secretary
- Federick Pinongcos (USA and Philippines), Publicity and External and Internal Communication
- Monica Ndagire (Uganda), Programme Development, Utility Representative
- Mawunyo Kofiloto (Ghana), Programme Development, Government Representative
- Harsh Desai (India), Programme Development, Technology Supplier Representative
- Daphne Calazans (Brazil), Programme Development, Consultancy Representative
- Ruobin Dai (China), Programme Development, Academia Representative
Together, the committee represents nine countries across six continents, ensuring a truly global perspective. With a strong balance between research and practice, as well as representation from both advanced and developing contexts, the team is well-positioned to develop a high-quality and inclusive programme.
A Theme Focused on Action
The 2026 edition of the Forum will be developed under the theme: Blueprint for Water Action: People, Skills and Leadership in Practice.
This theme positions Young Water Professionals as key actors in translating ideas into implementation. It focuses on how early-career professionals can apply their skills, build confidence and leadership pathways, and work across disciplines to deliver practical and scalable solutions.
Rather than focusing only on concepts or high-level discussions, the Forum will emphasise practical approaches. It will explore how young professionals can:
- Bridge research, policy and operations
- Contribute to real-world solutions across water systems
- Strengthen interdisciplinary and future-ready careers
- Foster collaboration and knowledge exchange across regions
- Support the implementation of climate resilience and digital transformation in practice
Supporting the Next Generation of Water Leaders
As part of IWA’s flagship events, the Emerging Water Leaders Forum plays an important role in ensuring that the voices and perspectives of young professionals are included in global water discussions. It creates a space where ideas can be tested, experiences shared, and new collaborations formed across borders and sectors.
The Programme Committee will work closely with the IWA Secretariat, the IWA YWP Steering Committee, the Young Water Professionals community, and the two IWA YWP flagship programmes (IWA LeaP and IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship) over the coming months to develop a dynamic and engaging programme for Glasgow 2026.
Looking Ahead
As preparations begin, the 2026 EWL Forum aims to move beyond discussion and towards action, equipping young professionals with the tools, networks and confidence needed to contribute meaningfully to the transformation of the water sector. More information on the programme and how to get involved will be shared in the coming months.
More information
The agenda and the date of the Forum will be confirmed. More information about the Forum is available here.
If you have any questions regarding this event or about the IWA Young Water Professionals community, please contact Dr Isabela Espindola, IWA Membership Engagement Senior Officer.