Selleen Sewpershad, 33, works in the world of high-risk, high-reward exploration geology. For seven years, she worked in some of the most remote parts of West, Central and Southern Africa, often as one of the only women in camp. The experience sharpened her technical edge while igniting a broader purpose: advocating for more inclusive, sustainable mining practices. Her on-the-ground experience — and first-hand insight into the artisanal mining economy — made her suited for a pivot into international trade and diplomacy. Based at the Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Selleen champions eight Southern African Development Community countries as premier mining investment destinations. From facilitating high-level German mining delegations to co-leading the European Union regulatory review for Africa’s raw material sector, her work bridges science, policy and international business. Beyond her job, Selleen advocates for gender transformation in mining and mentors young geoscientists. She is a firm believer in the power of relationships to move industries forward. “Don’t shrink to fit in,” she says.
I have been fortunate to learn from phenomenal mentors in the mining industry, some formal and many informal. One of my earliest managers taught me that leadership is not about title; it is about clarity, consistency and kindness. I carry that with me daily.