Black History Month 2024: Creating easy access to water systems

Roble Ali, principal engineer at Ayesa, shares his compelling journey into Water and Environmental Management that has led him through the Netherlands, Somalia, the Middle East and the UK.

For Roble Ali, reclaiming his narrative meant connecting with his East African heritage while pushing forward into innovative water engineering solutions. Born to Somali parents in Netherlands, and spending his teenage years in London, Roble’s upbringing was shaped by the stories of resilience and survival. At 16, a pivotal visit to Somalia, where he experienced the stark reality of water scarcity first-hand, set him on his path toward Water and Environmental Management.

What motivated you to pursue a career in Water and Environmental Management?
My journey into Water and Environmental Management is deeply rooted in my heritage, upbringing, and a pivotal personal experience that occurred when I was 16. Born in the Netherlands to East African parents who fled Somalia in the late 1980s due to civil war, my life has been shaped by a rich tapestry of experiences and stories.

Growing up, I was profoundly influenced by my parents' remarkable pasts. My mother, who grew up in a bustling Somali city, rebuilt her life in the Netherlands after the war. Learning Dutch—a challenging language—and establishing a new life in a foreign land was no small feat, yet she persevered and thrived.

My father’s story is equally inspiring. Initially a nomadic pastoralist, he left home at a young age in search of a better life. His quest for education took him across the Arab world—from Yemen to Egypt and Iraq—where he eventually earned a bachelor’s degree. His experiences and aspirations led him to work as an Agricultural Engineer in Saudi Arabia, driven by a desire to escape the hardships of his nomadic upbringing.

At 16, my longing to connect with my roots led me to Somalia. Although I had never been there before, I had close family in the region and was eager to understand what life might have been like for me had my parents returned to Somalia after the war. This visit profoundly altered my perspective, particularly regarding the value of clean, potable water and education.

During my trip, I travelled to various locations, including the bustling city of Hargeysa and the rural villages where my father had once lived. One striking moment was drinking rainwater collected in man-made reservoirs. While the water was odourless and did not taste unpleasant, it was a stark brown, far from the clear, clean water I was accustomed to.

This experience underscored for me the fundamental right every person has to clean water and a quality education. I vividly recall asking young relatives about their schooling, only to learn that they walked two hours each way just to attend. This realisation deepened my commitment to addressing these critical issues. It became clear that my path in Water and Environmental Management was not just about professional ambition, but about contributing to a cause that ensures equitable access to essential resources for all.

Currently, I am working with Saudi Arabia's National Water Company, where we are designing brand-new water networks in areas that have never had access to potable water before. This work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6—ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Helping Saudi Arabia achieve these ambitious goals resonates deeply with me, as it combines my professional expertise with a personal mission to improve lives through sustainable development.

At Ayesa, I’ve found a company that shares these values and is committed to using its expertise to promote sustainable development and enhance access to essential resources worldwide.

Can you describe your journey into the sector? Were there any pivotal moments or challenges that shaped your path?
I began my career with a clear goal: to enter the water sector. With a solid background in CAD, I found myself repeatedly applying for graduate roles, only to face numerous rejections. Eventually, I decided to pursue a temporary CAD position, and after a successful interview, I secured a role as a CAD Technician working on Affinity Water projects.

As my three-month temporary assignment came to an end, a permanent opportunity arose at Affinity Water as a Junior Asset Engineer. Although this wasn’t a formal graduate role, it proved to be a significant step in my career. During my nearly two years in this role, I had the privilege of being mentored by Tony Summerscales. His guidance was instrumental in helping me build a solid technical foundation and develop crucial soft skills. Under his mentorship, I learned the importance of being an "Intelligent Client," making informed asset management decisions, and adopting a "systems of systems" approach. This experience was pivotal in shaping my career in the water sector and setting the stage for my future work in the field.

What educational background or training helped you get started in WEM?
To equip myself for a career in Water and Environmental Management, I pursued a solid educational foundation and professional development. I began with a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Civil Engineering from the University of East London, which provided me with essential skills and knowledge. As my career progressed, I decided to deepen my expertise by obtaining a Master of Science (MSc) in Infrastructure Engineering and Management from the University of Surrey.

This advanced training allowed me to specialise further in the field. In recognition of my qualifications and professional achievements, I achieved Chartered status with the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) in 2021. This combination of education and professional certification has been instrumental in shaping my career and advancing my contributions to the field. I am committed to continuously developing both myself and those around me, including mentoring colleagues on their journey toward chartership.

My achievements have been shaped by my dedication, along with the support and guidance I received from previous employers such as Arcadis, Binnies, and Stantec. Their focus on professional development has been instrumental in helping me reach these milestones. Equally, my achievements have also been shaped by the unwavering support of my wife and kids, who have endured my absence during weekends and evenings as I pursued my goals. Ayesa’s emphasis on continuous learning provides a valuable framework that supports my ongoing impact and development in Water and Environmental Management.

What are some of the key projects or roles you've been involved in? What impact have they had on your community or the sector?
Throughout my career, I have been involved in a range of significant projects that have impacted both my community and the broader sector.

In the UK, I played a key role in the HS2 utility diversions, a critical infrastructure project aimed at improving transportation connectivity. I have had the opportunity to work on various Thames Water projects having worked for world renowned engineering companies.

Additionally, my work on the Neom project in Saudi Arabia allowed me to contribute to one of the most ambitious urban developments in the world, which focuses on sustainable and innovative solutions, and in Bahrain, I have worked on various Sanitary Engineering projects for the Ministry of Works, which have been instrumental in improving public health and sanitation. These projects have not only enhanced local infrastructure but also contributed to broader environmental sustainability goals.

Each of these projects has reinforced my commitment to advancing water and environmental management practices, demonstrating the vital role of effective engineering in improving quality of life and supporting sustainable development.

What are you most proud of in your professional career?
One of my most significant professional achievements has been my involvement in the Thames Water mains replacement project. This project was particularly meaningful to me because it involved the replacement of pipes in areas of inner London where I had lived and grown up. Working on this project not only allowed me to apply my expertise but also gave me a personal connection to the community.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to attend a careers fair at my former secondary school in Northwest London, where I met students from a diversity of backgrounds. I found it incredibly rewarding to relate to them and provide representation in the field of water management. This experience was profound, as it allowed me to share my journey and demonstrate that a career in the water sector is achievable and fulfilling.

The success of the Thames Water project was a collective effort, made possible by the exceptional team under the Eight2O alliance for Thames Water. The project team was incredibly supportive, and our collaborative spirit was instrumental in driving the project forward. It was also gratifying to see the project team engage with the community and inspire future generations about careers in the water sector.

This achievement stands out not only for its technical and professional impact but also for the personal fulfilment it brought. It exemplifies the power of giving back to the community and inspiring young people, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue careers in fields where they too can make a difference.

In your opinion, how can the WEM sector become more inclusive and diverse?
The water sector can become more inclusive by broadening recruitment practices, offering targeted scholarships and internships, and fostering mentorship programs. Working at Ayesa, I have seen firsthand the benefits of an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. The company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion helps create a supportive environment where all employees are encouraged to thrive. Promoting diversity through inclusive decision-making, celebrating varied cultural contributions, and addressing systemic barriers will create an equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

How has being part of CIWEM supported your career, and would you recommend it to others?
Being part of CIWEM has significantly supported my career by providing access to a vast network of professionals, valuable resources, and ongoing professional development opportunities. The platform has also enabled me to mentor several colleagues, guiding them through their own chartership journeys, which has been extremely rewarding. I would highly recommend CIWEM to others, as it offers not only professional recognition but also a supportive community that fosters growth and excellence in the water and environmental sector.

What advice would you give to Black students or early-career professionals considering entering WEM?
To Black students and early-career professionals considering Water and Environmental Management (WEM), my advice is to seek mentorship from experienced professionals and focus on obtaining relevant qualifications. Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level roles and actively network within the industry. Joining professional organisations like CIWEM can also provide valuable support. Stay resilient and passionate, as these qualities will help you overcome challenges and make a significant impact in the field.

Have you been involved in any mentoring or community outreach programs, and how have they influenced your career?
Yes, I’ve been actively involved in mentoring and community outreach programs. Mentoring colleagues to achieve their Chartered Water and Environmental Manager status has been particularly rewarding, as it allowed me to share my knowledge and help others advance in their careers. Additionally, participating in outreach programs has enabled me to engage with diverse communities, inspiring and encouraging young people to pursue careers in Water and Environmental Management. These experiences have enriched my professional growth and deepened my commitment to the field.

Connect with Roble Ali on LinkedIn

This article is part of the CIWEM’s Black History Month campaign.

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