The lubricants industry has often been considered a male-dominated domain. But that is changing. Today, more women are not just participating in this critical sector; they are leading, influencing and innovating within it.
This article highlights the journeys of six remarkable women at Shell Downstream South Africa. Their stories span disciplines but they share a common thread: a commitment to excellence, a passion for problem-solving, and the courage to carve out space in an evolving industry.

Nosipho Musisi - Lubricants Key Account Manager: OEM

With a commercial role that spans the full lubricants value chain, Musisi offers daily problem-solving and continuous growth. She thrives in this dynamic, fast-paced environment. "The idea that we are all working together to provide products and solutions that keep machinery in South Africa running makes it all worth it," she shares. 
To young women, her message is clear: "Be bold and be open. When I entered lubricants as a woman with a business educational background, I was surrounded by male engineers and peers who had expertise in tribology. I was highly intimidated. However, I found that there was power in saying ‘I don't know’, and I learned along the way."

Ntokozo Moyo - Lubricants Packaging Planner

Where even minor adjustments to planning, sourcing or logistics can lead to significant operational and environmental improvements, Moyo excels in problem-solving environments.
Fascinated by the fast-paced nature of the sector, Moyo finds deep satisfaction in seeing the supply chain come together seamlessly - from sourcing raw materials to ensuring production takes place smoothly, and delivering to customers on time and in full.
She says her motivation comes from knowing her work supports both operational goals and a greener supply chain.
Her advice to young women entering the field: "Stay open-minded, keep learning, be a team player, and show up every day with professionalism. A positive attitude can make all the difference."

Benedicta Mankhili - B2B Lubricants Marketing Manager

When Mankhili entered the lubricants industry over a decade ago, it was a surprising turn of events. "I studied Integrated Marketing Communication and pictured myself in Fast-Moving Consumer Goods or finance," she recalls. "Lubricants weren't even on my radar."
But once inside the sector, her curiosity grew. 
"I am motivated by seeing market share grow, whether it's entering new sectors, defending our position, or launching effective, targeted campaigns. Developing fit-for-purpose value propositions and tracking long-term impact drives my passion for the work."
Her advice to young women entering the field: "Be proactive and curious. Don't be afraid to connect - use platforms like LinkedIn to find women in the industry. Most are happy to share insights and guidance."

Lihle Shinga - Lubricants Technical Support

With a background in engineering and a passion for problem-solving, Shinga found a natural fit in the lubricants industry. Drawn by the essential role lubricants play in keeping equipment running efficiently across sectors - from manufacturing and energy to everyday transportation - she saw an opportunity to apply her technical skills in a meaningful way.
"What I enjoy most is knowing that the solutions I provide make a real impact on equipment performance and customer satisfaction," she explains.
Her advice to young women: "Don't doubt your place in the industry. Invest in learning as much as you can, both technically and from those with experience in the field. Trust yourself and keep showing up, even when it feels uncomfortable, that's where growth happens."

Zanele Monamodi - Lubricants Logistics Coordinator 

The dynamic nature and everyday impact of lubricants is what inspired Monamodi to pursue a career in the industry. 
What brings her the most satisfaction is knowing her recommendations genuinely improve equipment performance and keep customers happy.
"Logistics is a field that thrives in challenging and changing conditions. Every day brings new challenges that require adapting and working closely with various stakeholders across the supply chain to discover more efficient and cost-effective ways to meet customer needs," says Monamodi.
Her advice to young women: "I encourage young women interested in logistics or just start
ing their careers to explore the lubricants industry. Logistics offer many opportunities to grow, especially as global supply chains become more complex and e-commerce continues to grow."

Lorato Monaisa - Lubricants Supply Planning Manager 

Being introduced to the lubricants business early in her career encouraged Monaisa to explore her field of study. "The more I learned, the more I saw real potential for growth and personal fulfilment in various roles," she says.
What keeps her motivated is the essential, yet often unseen, impact lubricants have across industries. "I find deep fulfilment and motivation in knowing that my work contributes meaningfully to both individuals and organisations daily by supporting the movement of goods and people, enabling agricultural productivity, and driving performance across other industries."
Her advice to young women: "Lubricants offer many opportunities across the value chain where women can grow, lead and make a difference. More women must join the industry to help reflect the diversity of our society."

Londie Sibisi - Lubricants Senior Finance Advisor

For Sibisi, the energy and pace of the lubricants supply chain sparked her interest and has kept her inspired for nearly 15 years. "I joined Shell as a Junior Finance Advisor in the lubricants supply chain team where agility and constant change are the norm - and that's exactly the kind of environment I thrive in," she explains. She then moved to Sales: Key Account Management and later as Logistics & Contracts Manager.
Her motivation lies in the broader impact of her role. "It is fulfilling to observe the team efforts reflected in our overall results. I rest easy knowing that my job is done when learnings, adaptation and risk management align." Her advice to young women: "Trust the foundation you've built through years of study, put it into action. Be patient with yourself and others. Approach opportunities with care and confidence, and always value collaboration."

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