Leading ladies in mining, construction and engineering

WOMEN IN MINING

Leading ladies in mining, construction and engineering

Mining, construction and engineering are closely related fields that are still mainly dominated by men. Despite this, there are women who are breaking barriers and making a name for themselves through passion, hard work and determination.

Dineo Phoshoko speaks to Tsholofelo Candy Rathebe (TR) and Theo Kokota (TK) – both from COENG Consulting and Construction Engineers – as they share their experiences of being women in the mining industry.

Theo Kokota believes that it is important for mining companies have a moral obligation to enhance female representation in the industry

Please share what it is you do.

TR I am a technical enablement site leader. I am mainly responsible for empowering SMMEs in the mining industry. Most SMMEs in mining are not recognised; some are also not empowered. TK My job title is project technical assistant for the design, construction, installation and commissioning of PGM processing plant projects. My job entails reporting directly to the engineering head of department, assisting in managing the office of the owner’s team, facilitating the drafting and approval of engineering and process designs, as well as assuming the roles of a junior process engineer.

How did your mining career start?

TR After doing my diploma in non-destructive testing at Vaal University of Technology, I got an internship at Eskom. I was working as a contractor there for a while and enjoyed engineering, then I jumped over to mining where my potential grew and my love and passion for mining was cultivated. During this transition, I enhanced my academics to be a better fit for the mining industry as a whole. I then further studied quality and advanced project management and for my BTech. TK I started at the University of Johannesburg by enrolling for an engineering metallurgy course in 2010. After completing my studies in 2014, I received an opportunity to be part of an internship training programme for one year at Bakubung Platinum Mine in Rustenburg. The mine was still under a feasibility study for the construction of a PGM processing plant. As part of the internship programme, I participated in process development, plant piloting and designs at Mintek, and I am proud to say that all the project deliverables were completed successfully.

Has this always been something you’ve wanted to do?

TR Yes. I remember when I went to varsity and my physics marks were bad, I never believed I would be accepted; however, I never lost sight of what was really important – I focused on getting that engineering degree because I’ve always believed I‘m stronger than I look. TK Most definitely! When I chose this career and got to learn all the theory in varsity, I formed a clear picture of my career objectives.

Can you mention some challenges you’ve faced in your career so far?

TR I have experienced sexism in the industry and sexual harassment is quite prevalent because it is a maledominated field. You also get underestimated quite often by both men and women in this industry. TK The first challenge was being a newbie in the industry and hoping for things to work out in time. This can be prolonged, as a lot of people take long to warm up to your presence and technical inputs as a female engineer in a male-dominated industry. Concurrently, I realised that if you are new to the job, many perceive you to have lack of crucial technical experience until you prove otherwise.

How did you overcome such challenges?

TR With such challenges, the only thing you can do is persevere. You have to stand your ground and I believe that you cannot sell something that you do not believe in. So, if you don’t believe in yourself as a person, it’s hard for you to overcome anything. One must also understand that not every day will be the same. TK What got me through is understanding that I cannot make anyone do anything they are unwilling to do of their own accord. It is a professional environment, and we all have responsibilities and deliverables to achieve. Focusing on that and seeking assistance from those who are willing got me through. I told myself that I need to be committed to achieving as little as my daily deliverables

and empower myself with technical knowledge through an attitude of professional inquisitiveness. Consequently, I’ve never lost sight of my career objectives. Also, acknowledging my shortcomings has allowed me to continuously improve in my career.

Can you share your views on female representation in South Africa’s mining industry?

TR I’m actually super proud of the women in the industry – they are the enablers of our future. They represent strength, love, perseverance and passion. They make one believe that the wo in women is able and special because so many women are underappreciated in the industry. I believe that with them being there, it shows that love,

Tsholofelo Candy Rathebe holds a diploma in non-destructive testing from Vaal University of Technology

WOMEN IN MINING

strength and perseverance can be used in one sentence. TK Mining companies should have a moral imperative of enhancing woman representatives across all levels and should have the mandate to increase female representation in the workplace. As a woman working in the mining industry, I strongly feel we are fortunate to have organisations such as WiMSA (Women in Mining South Africa), which continues to provide support, guidance and mentorship, while advocating for woman empowerment. I believe that through this platform, women’s voices are heard, and it creates a space for female mining professionals to thrive in their professions.

What do you think needs to change to create more opportunities for women in the industry?

TR We are born and raised to believe that women belong in the kitchen and that they should look after their children. Nobody’s disputing that – indeed we still do that. However, our strengths in professional industries should also be acknowledged and taken into consideration. We must also increase enforcement of the existing laws against gender-based employment discrimination and sexual harassment. TK While the mining sector remains male-dominated, women work in an increasingly wide range of roles, as mine workers, managers and administrative staff, among others. I still believe that there are a wide range of opportunities where women could participate in the mining industry. Women need to avail themselves and be open to the idea of further education in miningrelated courses that will open job opportunities for individuals. Having a formal education is considered a gateway out of poverty and provides access to better employment opportunities.

What advice would you give to a young woman wanting to pursue a similar career path as you?

TR Always act with respect for others and have integrity in doing a good job, regardless of what you are asked to do. That’s where you start, as long as it’s not compromising your core values. TK “If you want the rainbow, be prepared to put up with the rain.” To aspiring female engineering professionals, be sure of who you are and be clear with your career aspirations. I encourage you to stay committed and always seek continuous improvement, in order to achieve your personal career milestones.

Is there anything you would like to add?

TR Remember, mining might be a way of putting food on the table; however, enjoying the art of mining fulfils the purpose of your career choice. TK “Do or do not. There is no try.” When you commit to doing something, know that you will give it your all. I believe that trying allows for distractions to derail you from your set goals.