Your Interview Tanyaradzwa Sonja Nago

Introduce yourself (name, company, position, country) and tell us how you got into lighting design (including education/qualifications).

My name is Tanyaradzwa Sonja Nago, the CEO of Industrial Lighting Pvt Ltd, based in Harare, Zimbabwe. I entered the world of lighting design at the age of 18, not through a traditional educational route, but through responsibility, resilience, and unexpected purpose. I had been preparing to pursue a law degree, but when my father passed away, I had to take over our family’s electrical engineering company—without prior training, experience, or qualifications in engineering. What began as a sudden shift soon became a deeply fulfilling calling that shaped my entire career and identity.

I stepped into lighting during one of the most challenging seasons of my life. With no formal background in engineering or renewable energy, I had to learn everything from scratch: solar design, lighting principles, client management, and business operations. Instead of being discouraged, I embraced curiosity. Among all the divisions of the company, lighting stood out for me. I was fascinated by it. That passion became my guide.

Tell us about your work – is there a specific type of project you like to work on or an area you specialise in and why?

Today, I specialise in sustainable lighting and design solutions, focusing on creating efficient, beautiful, and environmentally conscious lighting experiences. I am drawn to projects that allow me to merge creativity and technical innovation, especially those that involve renewable energy and interior/exterior aesthetic transformation. Lighting, to me, is not just a product or service but  a language. It shapes mood, influences design, and I am here for it to help  support the global transition toward greener living.

What project are you most proud of and why?

One project that stands out in my journey is my recent collaboration with a paint company, where we showcased the powerful relationship between colour and light. The event demonstrated how lighting affects perception, design, emotion, and function, Our major focus was on human centric lighting. It was not just a project it was a moment where my passion, creativity, and entrepreneurial leadership aligned beautifully. It reminded me of why I fell in love with lighting in the first place.

What is the biggest challenge that you have overcome in your career?

The greatest challenge I have overcome is taking over a technical, male-dominated industry at a very young age, with no formal training, shortly after high school and while grieving a parent. There were doubts from others, financial pressures, and overwhelming responsibilities. But through determination, endless learning, and a genuine passion for sustainable lighting, I transformed inherited responsibility into purpose-driven leadership. Today, Industrial Lighting Pvt Ltd continues to grow and defy the belief that indigenous businesses cannot survive beyond their founders.

How does light inspire you?

Light inspires me because it represents renewal, clarity, energy, and transformation. Lighting is not just about  illumination but about creating experiences and shaping emotions. I see an opportunity to build a more sustainable and aesthetically conscious Africa especially Zimbabwe.

What is your message for other Women In Lighting?

To every woman in lighting:

Lighting is a space where women can express themselves, Innovate and Lead. Your creativity, perspective and leadership matters. 
Do not wait to be invited rather step in, learn boldly, and let your work speak.