This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the remarkable individuals who contribute to our organization. Meet Shima Gharanfoli, Manager of Government Contracts and Strategic Procurement.
What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self not to hold back or fear new challenges or change. Don’t wait for inspiration; take the first step and confidence will come with time.
What’s a moment in your career that made you feel truly proud?
I don’t think of pride as one standout moment, but as the accumulation of small, meaningful decisions over time. I’m most proud when I’ve been able to navigate complexity with integrity, support others through challenging situations, and help create clarity and trust. Seeing that steady impact is what makes my work truly fulfilling
Who has inspired you and why?
I’ve been fortunate to work with women who took the time to support me and share what they’d learned. Their generosity and encouragement left a lasting impression and continue to influence how I show up for others.
What’s one challenge you’ve faced, and how did it shape you?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was when I moved to Canada and was trying to build a career in the field I had studied and was passionate about. At first, I had doubts about whether I would be able to find the right opportunities. It took time, persistence, and a lot of hard work to prove to myself and to others that I could succeed. That experience taught me resilience, flexibility and confidence, and it shaped how I approach challenges today. I learned that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and staying committed, even when the path isn’t clear.
What advice would you give to the next generation of people in your industry?
I feel very privileged to have worked in this industry for the past 15 years. There are certainly challenging days, but I often remind myself how important it is to be part of the solution in the fight against climate change. Regardless of the size of our role, it’s meaningful to contribute and keep moving forward. I believe you don’t need a formal title to lead, each initiative we take to support Nova Scotians and our planet is leadership in action.