As the African energy sector continues to evolve, women have emerged at the forefront of innovation. The 20 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars recognizes those transforming the industry – from oil and gas to renewable energy to finance, law and technology. Among the trailblazers is Elisangela Neto Fernandes, Global Asset Manager: Production Systems, SLB, recognized for her commitment to Africa’s energy future.
Please provide a brief overview of your journey in the energy industry that led to your current role? What are some key achievements or milestones that you are particularly proud of?
I began my career in the energy industry over 15 years ago as a Field Engineer at SLB, building a strong foundation in operations, teamwork, and customer focus. Over the past years, I progressed through asset coordination roles in Africa and globally for Subsea Landing String Services, before transitioning into Sales for Midstream Production Systems and later Operations leadership across Angola and Central East Africa for Surface Production Systems. Today, I serve as Global Asset Manager for Workover Systems at OneSubsea in Norway.
Along the way, there have been key milestones including the conclusion of the Super SenTree school as a trainee was a proud early achievement. Balancing the birth of my first daughter while finalizing my GFE and leading programs that improved global asset utilization was a personal and professional highlight, equally stepping outside of SLSS comfort zone to drive growth across diverse markets. Above all, I am proud to serve as a visible example that women can thrive in leadership roles in energy, growing careers while raising families, mentoring talent, and inspiring others to follow.
The energy industry is known for its complexities. What were some significant challenges you faced along the way, and how did you navigate through them to achieve your goals?
As a non-native English speaker, I had to push through language barriers and prove myself as the only woman in a male dominant environment. Transitioning to leadership roles came with several challenges. My role shifted to setting vision, leading through influence across cultures and managing not just work but people’s growth, their energy and potential. It tested my family as the emotional load was heavier, but I navigated all of these by staying adaptable, leaning on mentors and support systems and reminding myself that each challenge is an opportunity. I have discovered my strength in those moments, learning to balance logic with empathy, discipline with compassion and understanding that I was working with human beings that also have their personal lives and challenges as I do.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to excel in the energy sector? Are there any specific strategies or mindsets that helped you overcome obstacles and reach your current position?
Be curious, step outside your comfort zone, and invest in both soft and technical skills. Your difference is your strength. Build a support network, seek mentors, and never hesitate to ask for guidance. Above all, enjoy the process of learning and take care of yourself. The mindsets that helped me most were adaptability, empathy, and teamwork. I learned to see every challenge as temporary, but the lessons as permanent. My support network reminded me that I was never alone, and my family grounded me, showing that ambition and love can coexist.
A career in energy can be demanding. Could you describe a typical day in your life?
My day begins with meditation, praying and setting priorities over coffee. Mornings focus on quick tasks and stakeholder follow-ups. After lunch – with a team with a good conversation – my afternoons are filled with cross-time-zone meetings, team support, and personal development. Evenings are dedicated to family, sharing dinner, and staying connected with loved ones abroad. I end the day with exercise, reading, or journaling. Balance that keeps me energized and grounded.
Looking ahead, what changes or advancements do you hope to see in the energy sector? How do you envision your role in shaping that future?
I envision an energy sector that is more digital, efficient, sustainable and above all, inclusive. A future where women and local talent have equal opportunities to lead, and where companies value well-being as highly as performance, recognizing that safe and high-quality work depends on people who feel supported and balanced. My role in shaping that future is twofold: driving operational excellence through innovation and efficiency, while also serving as a visible advocate for inclusion, mental health, and mentorship. By doing so, I aim to help create an industry where the next generation especially young women can thrive without facing the same barriers.
