Born and raised in India, Josephita Harry is an Electronics and Instrumentation Engineer by education. She has been working in the recycling industry for over a decade. Currently, working as the Vice President of Sales in the Non-Ferrous materials division for Pan American Zinc in Miami, FL.  

Her passion for recycling started with a school project she did when she was 13 years old. It was conducted by the National Children's Science Congress with the main theme of "Clean Up India" with the sub theme of "Waste management"  Her project was on paper recycling. “It was fascinating to see how what was once "trash" could be transformed into something valuable. Working in the recycling industry, it continues to fascinate me seeing how when metal is recycled repeatedly, it continues to be value to this world than being buried underground,” says Ms. Harry. 

Ms. Harry has traveled to over 70 countries and visited recycling facilities and metal smelters around the world. “I take every opportunity to share what I do and what drives me and so on.  What I consider as one of the greatest achievements is when I hear from the youth in various countries; especially women, that one day want to be like me or do what I do and make a difference in this world - It reminds me I'm doing something right to leave a positive impact on someone, and spreading awareness of what our industry is all about,” she adds.

Being a woman in the industry

“One of my mentors called "hurdles" or "mistakes" as "opportunities". From that perspective, I have had many opportunities that have taught me a lot and continue to help me learn and grow. There are many women who have been in this industry for much longer than I have who have already stood the test of time, break any false perceptions of being a woman in the industry and paved the way for more of us to enter and excel. I would like to thank all the women who have been a part of our industry for decades.”