Nkhanedzeni Lugisani originally studied chemical engineering, but after qualifying realised this field wasn’t her true calling. Looking for a career direction that inspired her, she moved into IT and ended up owning a consulting firm for many years. During this time, she was hired by Gautrain for what was supposed to be a two-month consultancy contract. The rest, as Lugisani says, is history.

As CIO of the Gautrain Management Agency, Lugisani’s role is two-fold. She is responsible for implementing new technologies and strategically enabling opportunities. “My role is constantly evolving. There is so much diversity in what I do, and I am allowed to dream and explore new ideas and directions. Gautrain provides a supportive and ethical business environment,” she says.