Kiana Wilburg’s path to becoming the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo is deeply rooted in a decade of journalistic excellence. As a journalist with Kaieteur News for nearly 12 years, Wilburg developed a passion for oil and gas, a sector she covered extensively after Guyana’s historic oil discovery in May 2015.
“I have been utterly in love and devoted to learning about the industry and helping other Guyanese understand the proverbial nuts and bolts of this intriguing sector,” she shared. Her tenure at the Guyana Standard and OilNOW further honed her expertise, paving the way for her transition to this leadership role.
In an industry often seen as male-dominated, Wilburg has found allies among her male counterparts. “Navigating this landscape as a woman requires that you take nothing for granted and stand in your power,” she stated. Leveraging networking opportunities and showcasing women’s achievements through initiatives like the Energy Perspectives Podcast, Wilburg champions diversity and knowledge sharing.
Wilburg sees tremendous potential for women in Guyana’s oil and gas sector, especially with government initiatives like free tertiary education at the University of Guyana and the GOAL scholarship program, which has already benefited 30,000 Guyanese—75% of whom are women.
“Women have greater opportunities to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive and lead in the energy sector and beyond,” she affirmed. As CEO, she emphasizes inclusion and collaboration.
The Guyana Energy Conference highlights women’s voices through podcasts, essay competitions, and leadership roles in its main events. She credits her rise to a supportive leadership team and stresses that fostering inclusivity is a shared responsibility across genders.
Wilburg also encourages young women to confront industry challenges with determination. “Go for it! Every industry comes with its challenges… Don’t let that hold you back,” she advised.
She believes that collaboration among women is crucial for maximizing impact and fostering a stronger sense of community. “In this era of transformation, collaboration is our next superpower.”
Kiana Wilburg’s journey reflects the resilience and promise of Guyanese women in shaping the future of the energy industry. With her leadership, initiatives, and advocacy, she’s not just making space, she’s redefining it.
