DIVERSITY
DRIVING DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN MINING The demographics in South Africa’s mining industry do not match the country’s population. Even though many mining houses have established and implemented policies and procedures specifically directed at diversity and inclusion within their organisations, the industry still has a long way to go.
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peaking to Inside Mining magazine, Itumeleng Seabelo, business manager at Linhleko Projects, explains that during her career – as a metallurgist, production manager and plant manager – she has encountered a fair number of people from various social ethnic backgrounds as well as sexual orientations. She does, however, point out that there is still more that could be done to further enhance diversity and inclusion in the mining workforce. Challenges faced by the industry The mining industry has made some progress when it comes to diversity and inclusion, yet a lot of challenges still stand in the way. Seabelo mentions that these challenges include perception
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– where many people perceive the mining industry as being a space for men. “They don’t believe that women are able work in the mining industry and perform,” she says. Another obstacle is that many female mine workers are often overlooked when it comes to career advancement opportunities, despite the fact that they possess the necessary skills and qualifications. “What struck me the most is that they are also expected to work harder to prove their capabilities.” Limited work awareness is another challenge identified by Seabelo, whereby she explains that there are not enough work campaigns within schools and communities about the opportunities available for everyone in the mining industry.
