Welcome to the Winds of Change: Dialogue on Renewable Energy
In the most recent episode of the AFF Winds of Change podcast, hosted by Afonso Faria, CEO of AFF Wind Services, listeners are invited to embark on a journey through the evolving landscape of the renewable energy industry. This episode delves into the dynamic world of wind energy and its critical role within the broader context of global renewable efforts.

Behind the Blade: Vision and Industry Growth
Afonso Faria sets the stage by reflecting on AFF Wind Services' vision, ongoing growth, and their positioning within the renewable sector. There's a strong emphasis on the industry's potential for expansion and the continuous efforts to meet growing demand. Faria shares that despite challenges, including the impacts of global conflicts and economic instability, there is optimism for significant advancements in wind and solar energy integration.

Special Guest: Tony from Renewables in Africa
Highlighting this episode is a conversation with Tony, founder and CEO of Renewables in Africa. Tony discusses the growing impact of renewable energy in Africa, emphasizing the continent's vast potential. Maintaining an encouraging tone, he illustrates the necessity for increased investment and awareness to fully realize Africa's capabilities in renewable resources.

Exploring Global Dynamics and Industry Challenges
The dialogue touches upon the current state of wind energy in Europe and globally. Both speakers raise concerns about the pace of reaching decarbonization goals, with Faria noting the gap between current achievements and future targets. They ponder the influence of geopolitical factors, such as the war in Ukraine, and the resulting shifts in energy strategies across Europe.

Building a High-Performance Culture in Renewables
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around building a strong, safety-first culture within AFF Wind Services. Faria highlights the importance of fostering a committed team that embodies the company’s vision. This involves rigorous selection and mentorship processes, creating an environment where innovation and excellence thrive.

Mentorship and Growth Opportunities
Mentorship plays a pivotal role in onboarding new talent into the wind industry. Afonso shares his approach to integrating newcomers, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the industry. The focus on continuous improvement and daily communication strengthens the team’s ability to adapt and innovate.

Africa's Renewable Potential: A Promising Horizon
The podcast explores Africa's renewable energy landscape, showcasing the continent's potential for growth in key markets such as South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco. Collaborations with companies like AFF Wind Services are crucial to overcoming barriers and fostering development in these regions.

Future Conversations and Continued Exploration
The episode wraps up with a commitment to future discussions across various topics in renewable energy. Faria extends an invitation for listeners to engage and suggest topics, advocating for openness and dialogue to drive industry progress. The monthly podcast series ensures ongoing conversations around critical issues, developments, and innovations.

Conclusion: Embracing the Winds of Change
The AFF Winds of Change podcast continues to serve as a platform for insightful dialogues, fostering a deeper understanding of the renewable energy industry. As the world shifts towards sustainable futures, these conversations serve as a reminder of the collective efforts needed to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities in the energy sector.
Stay tuned for the next episode, where insights into wind energy will be further explored, and join us as we continue riding the winds of change.

Welcome to the premiere of Winds of Change, a new podcast from AFF Wind Services where host Afonso Faria steps out from behind the blades to bring you personal stories and big‑picture conversations from the wind‑energy frontlines.

In this debut episode, Afonso explains why he decided to start the show: to create a space where technicians, managers, contractors and leaders can speak openly, learn from each other, and celebrate the ongoing transformation of our industry. This isn’t a technical or sales‑driven programme; instead it’s an honest look at the people, experiences and lessons that make renewables work.

You’ll hear about:

• Why Winds of Change exists: AFF Wind Services wants to build a more connected and consistent voice within the sector and share stories that matter.
• Setting expectations: Afonso lays out the boundaries (no confidential commercial discussions) and focuses on the real stories and people behind the projects.
• Industry evolution: How wind technology has grown over the past two decades—from 3‑MW turbines to machines beyond 10‑MW—and the digital tools that now shape our work.
• Life in the field: The human side of wind work, balancing long trips and time away from home, and why personal connections matter.
• AFF’s story: Afonso reflects on starting as a self‑employed technician, the shift toward contracting and why AFF built a team around integrity, quality and trust.
• Looking ahead: The mission to connect the entire wind‑energy community and the promise of future guests, including Tony Tiyou of Renewables in Africa.

Throughout the episode, Afonso invites you into the conversation, encouraging technicians and managers alike to share experiences and help shape the future of renewable energy. With a jingle that sets a relaxed tone and a host who draws on two decades of experience, Episode 1 lays a foundation for open, thoughtful dialogue, while reminding listeners that this is a monthly show and inviting them to tune in every fourth week.

Join us to explore how the wind industry has evolved, the challenges we face, and the values that guide us. Follow Winds of Change on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform, and be part of a community that is moving the sector forward. Stay curious, stay safe and keep embracing the winds of change!