In the heart of Mozambique’s swiftly emerging position as a global contender in natural gas production and export, a figure stands out – Lecticia Sepulvede. As ExxonMobil’s Public and Governance Affairs Advisor, her vision extends far beyond her immediate role, aiming to empower Mozambicans to harness their potential in the energy sector. Recognised as one of the African Energy Chamber’s ‘25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars,’ Sepulvede’s journey is one of purpose, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to community.
With a journey that began in 2018 after earning a Master’s in Petroleum, Energy, Economics, and Finance from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland through a prestigious Chevening scholarship, Sepulvede’s path in the energy industry was illuminated. Fuelled by a desire to see Mozambique harness its natural resources sustainably, she embarked on a voyage that would soon become her passion and purpose.
In her five years as part of ExxonMobil’s Public and Government Affairs department, Sepulvede has forged connections, managed expectations, and nurtured relationships with stakeholders spanning the government, community, and the general public. Yet, it’s her profound impact on Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado region that truly resonates. Amid the turmoil of insurgency, Sepulvede orchestrated collaboration between government bodies, civil society, other International Oil Companies (IOCs), and community partners to aid the thousands displaced, often reaching areas overlooked by larger organisations due to security concerns. This commitment to holistic support earned her a Global Excellence Award within ExxonMobil.
Undeniably, Sepulvede’s cooperative spirit knows no bounds. Advocating for unified actions among IOCs operating in Mozambique, she believes that communities are concerned with solutions rather than which organisation is providing them. Her efforts manifest in promoting a united front to address common challenges and create a significant impact on lives affected by insurgency.
However, the path was not without challenges. The pandemic’s impact and the insurgency in northern Mozambique posed multifaceted hurdles. But Sepulvede, armed with her profound communication skills and an innate ability to bring diverse stakeholders together, navigated through these complexities. Transparency, education, and unity became her navigational tools, helping her overcome obstacles while maintaining the industry’s commitment to Mozambique.
For young women aspiring to thrive in the energy sector, Sepulvede’s advice resounds powerfully: “Speak up and show up.” She advocates embracing uniqueness, seeking mentorship, and fostering curiosity. Her own journey underscores these principles, showcasing how they can open doors in a traditionally male-dominated field.
A day in Sepulvede’s life is a symphony of responsibilities. As ExxonMobil’s Public and Government Affairs Advisor, she orchestrates internal and external communications, supports community initiatives, and fosters government relationships. Each day is a crescendo of planning, coordination, and stakeholder engagement, all underpinned by her belief in the power of open dialogues and unity.
Looking ahead, Sepulvede’s vision encompasses empowering women in leadership roles and ensuring governments benefit from the energy sector’s resources. Her initiatives, from supporting girls’ education in STEM fields to promote networking through the Power Play, reflect her commitment to fostering gender balance and impactful leadership within the industry. She envisions a landscape where women in leadership roles are commonplace, serving as inspirations for the next generation.
Lecticia Sepulvede’s journey is a beacon of hope for Mozambique’s energy sector and beyond. Through her commitment to collaboration, communication, and compassion, she’s not only shaping her own career but also fostering a more equitable and prosperous future for the entire industry and the communities it touches.
