Page 13 - new final magazine big size september 2025

Journey of a
Scientist

Dr. Veena
Dr. Veena

Sahajwalla
Sahajwalla

The Woman Turning

Waste Into Wonder

In a world drowning in discarded
plastic, and landfills overflowing
with old and damaged electronics,
there is one scientist who has chosen
to not see waste as a problem but
rather as a possibility, a possibility
for something greater which is yet to be achieved. Dr Veena Sahajwalla is an award
winning material scientist and engineer, who is internationally praised about how she
has changed the way world thinks about recycling. Born in Mumbai and now based in
Australia, she has become a global pioneer in turning waste into valuable recycled products
through science and innovation. Her life story is not just about scientific success, it is
about passion, perseverance and a strong belief that even ordinary people can change
the world for the better.

Early life: A life before fame

Dr Veena was born in the evergreen city of Mumbai, where she grew up surrounded by creativity,
culture, and constant innovation, Even as a child she was fascinated by how things were built and
how they could be repaired or improved.
She often examined broken lamps and bulbs after wondering what happened to objects after their
so-called “life” was over. Instead of accepting that waste must be thrown away, she questioned it.
These early questions were simple yet powerful and further laid the foundation for her future
career.

A Journey of Innovation: From India to The World

Leaving India for higher studies was one of the biggest decisions of Veena Sahajwalla’s life. She
grew up surrounded by the colours, noise, and warmth of Mumbai. Suddenly, she was in Canada
cold, unfamiliar, and far from home. She often described the first winter as “a shock you can feel in
your bones.” But she refused to let the icy weather freeze her spirit. During her PhD years, she
spent countless late nights in the laboratory.

-2025
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