The IEEE WIE Distinguished Volunteer and Mentor series highlights a dedicated WIE volunteer who is well known for their notable contributions to IEEE WIE.

In this issue, we feature Moira Bastos Prates, IEEE WIE Volunteer, IEEE Potentials Student Editor.

IEEE WIE: How has your experience with IEEE WIE shaped your career and personal growth?

Prates: “WIE made me stronger and showed me a super united community with the goal of increasing women’s participation in engineering fields. WIE shows that diversity is strength and that it’s worth standing up for a more diverse world with greater participation of women in leadership across various fields.”

IEEE WIE: What innovative projects or initiatives are you currently working on that you believe will make a significant impact?

Prates: “I participated in the restructuring of the WIE Affinity Group at the Federal University of Bahia, which generated and continues to generate a huge impact on the community of women in engineering in Bahia, Brazil. More recently, I mentored my freshmen in organizing the largest WIE event in Brazil, focused 100% on the industry.”

IEEE WIE: Can you share a moment when you overcame a significant challenge in your professional journey and what you learned from it?

Prates: “Taking on new leadership roles is always a difficult task. I believe the next one will always be the most challenging. But last year I was the student representative for Region 9, a super challenging role, but with the support of excellent volunteers, each challenge was met in the best possible way.”

IEEE WIE: How do you stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in your field?

Prates: “Certainly, IEEE networks are my main source of information. Magazines like Potentials, PES Magazine, Spectrum, and other transactions are the most up-to-date. However, diversification is always good; to that end, participating in events, attending lectures, and following local news from around the world keeps you ahead in terms of updates on important topics.”

IEEE WIE: What role do you think mentorship plays in the success of young professionals, and how do you approach mentoring others?

Prates: “Having a mentor, or several, is essential for the development of young professionals. The support and guidance of someone who has already gone through the phase you are in can make all the difference in overcoming adversity. As one of the longest-serving members of my affinity group, I feel it is my mission to assist newer WIE members, whether it’s helping organize events, providing tips about the IEEE, or even helping them reach other stages of their careers, such as landing their first internship.”