Monmi, an Associate Fellow at The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and Network Coordinator for the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network in South Asia, has been recognized for her contributions to sustainable development.

Monmi Barua, a resident of Gurgaon near Delhi, originally comes from Assam. She has been living in Delhi for the past fourteen years. She is an Associate Fellow at the Environmental Education and Awareness Division at The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). She also works as the Network Coordinator for the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network in South Asia and represents India internationally at conferences and other events. She has been recognized for her contributions to sustainable development.

Monmi completed her schooling in Tezpur, Assam. She moved to Delhi for further studies and obtained her Masters in Political Science from the University of Delhi. She then shifted her career from Political Science to Sustainable Development by completing a Diploma in Environment Law & Management. She says that she pursued several other certificate and diploma courses along with her job to advance her career.

Monmi realized that her school education on the environment was not enough to tackle the complex challenges of sustainable development during her diploma. This motivated her to seek more education and practical experience in the field. Monmi believes that continuous learning and professional development are essential for staying updated and making a meaningful impact on her chosen career path.

Monmi shares her COVID pandemic experience, expressing constant concern for her parents' health, as she lives far from them. She feels that COVID has taught people a lot, and it is very important for everyone to take the utmost care of their health. Monmi also stresses the importance of staying connected with loved ones, as she regularly checked in with her parents through video calls and ensured they had access to necessary resources. She believes that the pandemic has highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relationships and prioritizing both physical and mental well-being.

Referring to her mistakes, Monmi says that she made many mistakes in her life in terms of her career. She was an introvert in her initial days, but slowly she grasped things and made her own pace. But she thanks her organization, TERI, for offering such a vibrant culture and supportive environment that have helped her grow and overcome her initial challenges. She values the opportunities she has been given as a network coordinator for one of the programs for South Asia. Monmi is determined to continue expanding her expertise and staying ahead in the ever-evolving industry.

Monmi’s parents, brother, and friends serve as her role models, supporting her at all times and motivating her to move forward in life. Professionally, one of her colleagues is her other source of inspiration and has always been guiding her and showing her the path to follow.

In her free time, Monmi likes to go out with her friends and watch movies. She also loves to cook and bake in her spare time, besides decorating her house and reading blogs. She thinks that it's important to take time for herself and do things that make her happy. She believes that it's essential to prioritize self-care and personal growth.

Monmi advises anyone who wants to make a career in the field of research to have a graduation degree first and then to choose an area that they want to pursue. She says you can also apply for volunteer programs through their respective websites and portals.

Monmi advises everyone who is starting their career to stay true to themselves. She says, Do not become someone else; do not emulate others; learn good things; be the best version of yourself; and do not pretend to be someone else because it is very easy to get lost in this fake world. So be consistent with your work and enjoy your journey. She believes that success will take time and effort, but it will be worth it.