Sorayadebie Jhagroe is a highly driven and inspired changemaker towards the SDGs. Born and raised in Suriname, her passion is to contribute to the development of the community, with focus areas related to youth development, climate action, energy, environment and gender.
Soraya holds a BSc. degree in Infrastructure (2015). Additionally, she completed a certificate course in Pedagogics (2017). In 2020, she accomplished her MSc. degree in Sustainable Management of Natural Resources. Her passion for learning led her to complete many personal and professional courses, which is still ongoing. Currently, she studies Bachelor of Law and aspires a doctorate degree in the near future.
While combining her study with work, Soraya started as a company assistant and PR officer. Her BSc. degree led her to excel in project management and technical drafting at a construction company. Afterwards, she enriched her experience at the Secondary Technical Vocational Education Institute (NATIN) as a teacher/tutor/supervisor and management member for the faculty of natural resources (4+ years). Currently, she holds the position of Economic Regulation and Supervision Specialist at the Energy Authority of Suriname.
Over the past decade, Soraya has been actively involved in various (inter)national social-community activities and youth empowerment organizations. She is well-known for her multidisciplinary approach with successful execution of projects varying in scale. Leading by example, she encourages others to actively participate in addressing pressing developmental challenges. She has been able to contribute through her different roles: (board)member of the Cultural Union Suriname (4 years); Lions Clubs International Suriname Leadership Team as the Leo Associate, chair of the Leo Clubs; (vice)president and current member of Leo Club Campus Plus (5+ years); Suriname America Alumni Association since 2022 (secretary) and senior lead at Foundation Young Help Suriname (6+ years). She was an elected Youth District Council member for approximately 3.5 years.
Recently, Soraya joined the Suriname Business Association - Young Management division. Engaging in the United People Global Network, Lights on Women's Energybase and platform of the Global Women's Network for the Energy Transition allows her to actively participate in worldwide challenges. Soraya is the recipient of the CARICOM Women in Sustainable Energy Award (2022) in the category Youth Leader, which she considers a significant milestone. By being a member of the Caribbean Development Bank’s Future Leaders Network, she wants to be a champion for the Caribbean in youth development challenges and her selection in the prestigious 35 under 35 Caribbean Cohort underscores her commitment to leave a lasting impact and make valuable contributions to the region.
Apart from her professional pursuits, Soraya enjoys Indian dance and Zumba. She's a nature and meditation lover who also likes networking, socializing and spending quality time with family. Her life motto: "God, Positivity, Happiness & Inner Peace" guides her journey. Soraya's unwavering leadership commitment and strong desire to contribute to the growth of responsible world citizens keeps her energized. She aims to make a profound impact on sustainable development at every level. Her remarkable drive, expertise and personal characteristics position her to make an invaluable contribution to the world.