International Women in Mining Day 2025: Nanji’s story

At Wood, we believe that the strength of our business lies in the diversity of our people. Their stories, their talents, and the unique paths that brought them here. As we mark International Women in Mining Day, we honour the women who are shaping the future of the industry through their expertise, leadership, and the support of those who have championed their growth.

This year, we are proud to share the story of Nanji Sheni, a Business Development Manager in our Minerals and Metals business. Her journey is one of transformation, resilience, and the quiet power of being seen. It is a story that reminds us that success is rarely achieved alone and that with the right support, anything is possible.

Nanji’s career began with a desire to find a path that would allow her to use her full range of talents. With a strong academic foundation in science and mathematics, she chose to pursue chemical engineering, a field that offered both intellectual challenge and professional flexibility.

“I didn’t want to be boxed into one path. I believe we’re given many talents, and one day we’ll have to give an account for how we used them. That’s why I chose a career that lets me bring all of myself: my love for science, numbers, and creativity into one space.”

Her time at the University of Cape Town introduced her to the world of mining and mineral processing. As her interest in the field grew, she began to consider postgraduate study. A single piece of advice would shape her next steps: “I was told, ‘Don’t pick the course, pick the supervisor.’ That advice changed everything.”

That supervisor was Dr. Kirsten Corrin, who became a pivotal figure in Nanji’s academic and professional development. “She wasn’t just a supervisor; she was a mentor who helped me finish strong and meet the right people. We still meet up when I’m in Cape Town. That relationship means a lot to me.”

This early experience of mentorship would become a defining theme in Nanji’s career. From her time at Mintek, where she worked in research and development, to her transition into business development at Wood, Nanji has consistently been supported by individuals who recognised her potential, often before she did.

One such individual was a project manager who encouraged Nanji to explore business development as a space where her passion for strategy and people could thrive. “She didn’t just mentor me, she sponsored me. She spoke for me in rooms I wasn’t in yet.” That act of advocacy led to a new chapter in Nanji’s career, one that would allow her to combine her technical expertise with her natural ability to connect.

In her current role, Nanji approaches business development not as a transactional function but as a relationship-driven practice rooted in trust and authenticity. “I’ll talk to anyone! Whether it’s a CEO or an intern. I once turned getting hit in the face with a banner at one of the world’s largest mining conferences into a meeting with a senior executive. Fundamentally, I will always enter a conversation being my authentic self, as you just never know where it may lead.”

Her ability to build meaningful connections has opened doors not just for business but for collaboration, mentorship, and mutual growth. She credits much of her success to the leaders who invested in her development, including those who challenged her to think critically about her path. “I remember one of my bosses once asking me, ‘Do you get joy from the next Excel spreadsheet, or something more external?’ That helped me realise I love interacting with people, that’s where I thrive.”

Looking ahead, Nanji envisions a future rooted in strategic leadership. She is passionate about contributing to the long-term direction of organisations, ensuring that strategy is not just a corporate function, but a tool for empowerment and progress. “Strategy cannot ever be an afterthought. It’s a fundamental part of everything we do- whether it’s in business or life. It’s how you move forward.”

Nanji’s story is not just about career progression. It is about having the courage to be yourself in spaces that don’t always expect it. It is about the mentors who see your potential before you do. And it is about the responsibility to uplift others as you rise. “I’ve been blessed with mentors, coaches and sponsors, people who weren’t afraid to let me succeed. Now, I want to be that person for someone else.”

On this International Women in Mining Day, we celebrate Nanji and all the women who are forging meaningful careers in mining and those who are uplifting them on their journeys. The power of advocacy in this industry cannot be underestimated and could be the linchpin in someone creating a fruitful and fulfilling career.