Pala Connector Edition 11 | Q3 by kwedamedia

PALA CONNECTOR

SHEQ CORNER

AMSHEQ launches the Change House Campaign Employee of the month nominations PMC - Building the largest mining upcast fan station in the southern hemisphere

MAIN/LEAD STORIES

Safety is our foremost Corporate Value

The mining industry is experiencing some incidents which have resulted in fatalities during the month of August, this is rather concerning for me, personally, which prompts all of us to take some time to reflect on this. Unfortunately, PMC has not been exempted from the incidents, but we are grateful that no lives were lost in the recent LTI incident which affected four (4) of our colleagues from the electrical services department. We pray for their full speedy recovery and hope that such similar incidents are averted in future. Let’s remember to use our basic safety principles such as the basic HIRA, XiyaXiya, lockout, wearing appropriate personal protective gear, just to name a few. I believe that all safety incidents can be avoidable if we adhere to the correct safety principles and learn from all previous accidents. We cannot continue suffering safety setbacks through the same errors, we need to be always vigilant.

Each year, the month of July is recognized globally to celebrate the birthday of our late icon, Former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela on the 18th of July. I would like to commend all PMC employees, including contractors, who played a part in this important commemoration, by giving back to those that are less privileged. If we join hands, we connect communities by making

the necessary difference for the less privileged. Giving back should always be extended beyond the month of July as our communities are always in need of a helping hand.

Market fluctuations are beyond our control and for us to navigate this financial storm we must explore several alternatives not limited to optimization of operations, working safely and effective cash management to meet all the priorities to sustain operations. Our commitment to rewarding and recognizing employees continues, innovation and hard work deserves recognition. Thank you to all the employees who have submitted their ideas at VIP and to the leaders who have recognized employees/teams of the month in the last quarter. Let us lead by example through making sure that our actions speak louder than words and committing ourselves to demonstrating safety through our behaviors and actions.

There is a beneficial importance of obeying the rules on maintenance and general operations for the sustainability of this business. As we build our safety culture, we need to observe the cost benefit approach in decision making and avoid decisions that will be costly for the business. We need to continuously motivate and encourage each other to

‘‘Vigilance and adherence to safety principles are key to preventing incidents and ensuring the well-being of all our colleagues.’’

follow the rules and do what is right instinctively irrespective of who is watching. The next two years is critical for copper as we need to strive and achieve the breakeven position consistently. Continuing the productivity journey is one way to maintain robustness that is an essential precondition for sustainable growth.

Building our social capital and strengthening our relationships with stakeholders is increasingly a distinguishing and resilience trait during periods of volatility in our operating environment. The mining industry is a critical epicenter of the economy and must remain strong for the country, and the African continent. As September is a heritage month, this year’s celebration was special in South Africa as we commemorated three decades of democracy. I would like to urge all of you to preserve our mine and always act in the best interest of our communities. As we embrace, celebrate our diversity and heritage, let us look after our resources that have been entrusted to us as a legacy

Desk

From the Editor’s

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS… MAKE LEMONADE!

One thing about life, is that it is not easy. There will be times when you have a reason to celebrate and times when you are faced with adversity or challenges. The only thing that I have always tried to do is to remain optimistic, knowing that every situation is temporary. If you are happy, make the most of your joy because it won’t always last long, and when things are’nt going well, persevere, because the situation is not permanent. As the seasons change, situations will ultimately change as well.

This edition is filled with inspirational stories of the strides of employees who remain committed to improving their personal and workspaces. Our front-page story is one that spotlights the Annual Spring Walk which is one of the most anticipated events on our corporate calendar, and showcases the diversity at PMC. By collaborating with suppliers and contractors it was a huge success attended by over a thousand employees and contractors.

I take great pride in knowing that we enjoy an excellent relationship with our internal and external stakeholders who are always willing to lend a hand when needed. The same can be said for Mandela Month where PMC partnered with suppliers to make a difference within the various Ba-Phalaborwa communities.

As August was Women’s Month, we chose to showcase a few PMC women who are blazing trails and making a difference in the workplace. Boitumelo Kekana is featured in our Leadership Corner, another excellent example of an ordinary young woman who has grown in her career at PMC. Her story

is that of enthusiasm, commitment and perseverance. Read more about her and others in this edition. There might not have been any event for women at PMC, but the Smelter and Refinery ladies took it upon themselves to host one for their section. A true example of making the most out of the little that you have. By nature, women like to gather and converse, so this was befitting for this edition.

The year 2024 has started with a bang at PMC, with the Top Employer Award and the launch of the Crusher 5 Project. We are anticipating another milestone with the ventilation cast fans that are currently being built, read more on the progress of this project in this edition. It was so beautiful to watch the amazing work already done on this project when I visited the site, and in such a small space of time. The collaboration and unity that went into the planning, engineering and building the fans is commendable and is evident of the power of teamwork. The fans will by no doubt become the largest in the mining industry in Southern Africa.

Another major highlight of the year was Heritage Day! It was inspiring to see everyone coming together and embracing each other’s cultures. The usually bustling workplace was transformed into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, traditions, and history. It was a beautiful symbol of the beauty of African tradition. Thank you to all the employees and teams who shared their amazing pictures!

I trust that you will enjoy this edition of the Palaconnector! Your comments and feedback will be appreciated.

Sincerely Lavish

Mongwe

Email: Lavish.Mongwe@palabora.co.za

Tel: 015 780 2019

LEADERS ARE EQUIPPED WITH CRITICAL LABOUR RELATIONS SKILLS

As part of development and information sharing, the Employee Relations department embarked on a mission to equip leaders with skills on how to chair or initiate a disciplinary hearing after noticing that several organizations incur costly

compensation orders from the CCMA due to line managers or HR staff who don’t comply with legislation regarding disciplinary processes.

Training events were created for leaders from Supervisors to Management level

to assist them in chairing disciplinary hearings effectively. The interactive sessions which were led by the Employee Relations team provided a practical handson approach to chairing hearings in the workplace. Some of the topics covered at the sessions amongst others are:

• Section 23: Fair Labour Practice –Fair procedures

• Schedule 8: Code of good practice: dismissal

• Basic Conditions of Employment Act No 75 of 1997: Section 41: Severance Pay

• Section 20 of the MHSA of 29 of 1996: Employee may dispute finding unfitness to perform work.

• Section 6 of the Employee Equity Act No 55 of 1998: Prohibition of unfair discrimination

• Disciplinary process role players and their roles

• Guides on how to chair a disciplinary hearing.

One of the Supervisors who attended the sessions, Ishmael Mashele, from Logistics operations commented on how enlightening and educational the session was.

“It was very eye-opening to learn about the various aspects of a disciplinary hearing, I believe this will assist us as leaders in the long term.” The sessions will continue well into the last quarter of 2024 to cover all business leaders who may have missed an opportunity.

Book your session on SAP and be empowered!

Many thanks to the ER team for this great initiative which will ultimately save costs within the company and impart vital knowledge to the workforce!

LEADERSHIP CORNER

Tell us about yourself. (Birthplace, family life, education and family life.)

I was born at Groothoek Hospital in the Zebediela region and I am the third of four siblings; I have a sister and two brothers. I was raised in Makotse village, and did my primary schooling at Makgoathane. I completed my matric at SJ van der Merwe Technical High School in Lebowakgomo and then went to University of Johannesburg (UJ) to enroll for a National Diploma in Extraction Metallurgy, which I completed in 2011. I have since acquired a BTech, PGDBM, MBA and am currently busy with MEng.

Kindly share something about your professional development journey.

I started with my experiential learning to attain my National Diploma at Rand Refinery Limited in Germiston and later joined PMC as a graduate Metallurgist after completion of my BTech.

I worked in the Vermiculite and Refinery departments until I was appointed as a Training Instructor for Concentrator and Magnetite. In 2016 I was appointed as a Metallurgist and have worked both in the Concentrator and Magnetite Plants. I settled with the Magnetite division during the split in 2019 and I was promoted to my current role of a Operations Superintendent in 2020 and am currently leading the Magnetite Stream 2 Operations Plants.

‘‘Good leaders don’t blame their teams for unfavorable outcomes - they take accountability, demonstrate courage, and ensure their teams are set up for success.’’

What do you like most about your job?

My job is quite demanding and there are always new targets and developments taking place within the magnetite space which makes it exciting. I also like the fact that I work with different people from different backgrounds and that provides an opportunity to understand people better and influence their lives in a positive way where necessary.

Did you always aspire to be in this leadership role?

Yes, joining the organization as a graduate came with an ambition to grow within the ranks and I am happy for what I have achieved thus far.

What are your main responsibilities in your current role?

In summary, my responsibilities include ensuring that Magnetite production and quality targets are achieved, ensuring SHEQ compliance in my area of responsibility, and ensuring there is zero harm. I am leading a team and ensuring that there is provision of resources required to achieve our sectional objectives, managing costs, and ensuring that we have the human capital to perform the tasks as per our sectional labour plan.

In your opinion, what qualities define a good leader?

Good leaders must have a vision with clear targets and objectives. They should be able to build strong relationships with people and they must be relatable. Good leaders are results driven and must ensure that they set their teams up for success. Good leaders do not blame the teams for unfavorable outcomes, they take accountability and ownership for their team’s mistakes. They must also demonstrate courage and decisiveness in instances where they are confronted with difficult situations or uncertainties.

mining industry and his involvement has created a solid foundation for my career. My father was also supportive, and results-driven and that has motivated me to achieve more and make him proud. I also have different leaders within PMC who have contributed to my journey in different ways, and I am truly appreciative of their contributions and the roles they played in my career.

How do you keep your department motivated? And what other measures have you implemented to align the people that you lead?

By keeping people engaged, setting clear targets, and providing a platform where they can bring ideas and make decisions as well as providing feedback. People ought to know how they are performing so that they can improve or sustain their good performance. I also reward good performance using the available incentives in the organization and providing employees with opportunities for growth and development.

What are some of the tried and tested strategies in terms business optimization and improvement, which you believe works for the mining/ working industry?

1. Understanding the political and economic landscape.

2. Understanding your strengths, improving on weaknesses, identifying threats and leveraging on opportunities (SWOT Analysis).

3. Ensuring lean operations by eliminating waste.

4. Building strong business relationships with key stakeholders.

be respected, which is contrary to our male counterparts. I had to set the record straight.

‘‘Patience is a virtue. Focus on your deliverables, stay steadfast to your goals, and let your work speak for itself.’’

What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

Patience is a virtue, do not compare your journey to others. Always focus on your deliverables, remain steadfast to your goals and let your work speak for you. Also learn to listen and give others an opportunity to express themselves. Seek to understand people and why they behave in a particular manner. That makes it easier to manage people better and cultivate relationships.

What kind of advice would you give other women who aspire to be a leader within PMC?

PMC has a lot of opportunities in all disciplines. I would like to encourage women to upskill themselves, be confident and explore the available opportunities. They should invest their time in selfdevelopment, strive for excellence and seek career mentors. Women are smart and capable and with the right support, they can achieve a lot.

Has anyone had a positive influence on your career? If so, how?

My brother is a Mining Engineer, he has inspired me to pursue a career in the

Do you participate in any sports or creative activities?

- Please name them .

Yes, I do enjoy marathons and I love golf!

As a leader, what are some of the challenges you have faced and how did you overcome them? (Name at least one)

Female leaders always have to work hard to prove their capabilities before they can

What is something surprising or interesting that not many people know about you?

I am a great cook and I love animals.

What tips or advice would you give someone starting a new job at PMC?

Have the right attitude towards your work and allow yourself to learn as much as you can. There are also a lot of hazards in the mine, so look after yourself and always remain safety conscious.

A Heartfelt Farewell to Patrick Silaule: Celebrating 14 years of dedication

After nearly two decades of unwavering commitment and hard work, Patrick Silaule has hung his boots and is bidding farewell to his beloved role in the business. Over the past 14 years, he has become a cornerstone of the Vermiculite Dispatch Team, embodying all the business values in his role of an Equipment Cat. 3 Operator.

From the day he joined, Silaule demonstrated an unparalleled work ethic and a passion for his responsibilities. His colleagues have consistently praised his ability to remain calm under pressure, solve complex challenges, and support team members. His impact extended beyond daily tasks; he was a mentor, a source

of inspiration, and a friend to many. Throughout his tenure, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency of Dispatch Operations. This was evident as each speaker paid tribute to Silaule.

In recognition of his years of service, the Vermiculite Dispatch Team organized a heartfelt farewell celebration on Friday, the 27th of September 2024. The event was a blend of joy and nostalgia, filled with laughter, dance and shared memories. Colleagues shared stories that highlighted his remarkable character and the many ways he touched their lives. Adding to the special occasion, his wife was invited to join in the festivities. The management believed it was essential for her to experience this moment,

honoring the sacrifices and support she provided throughout his career.

The Vermiculite Management expressed their gratitude for this legend’s hard work and dedication. They shared narratives that highlighted his commitment and the positive impact he had on the workplace culture. Speaking on behalf of Management, Simson Tekane, Vermiculite Operations Manager mentioned how letting go of Silaule is a bitter-sweet moment for both the team and leaders. “He has been more than just an employee; he has been a leader and a friend. He consistently embodied all the business values and has shown dedication throughout his working years. His absence will be felt deeply, and we are all going to miss him greatly. We wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life,” said Tekane.

As the veteran embarks on his next adventure, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a team inspired by his hard work and dedication. The values he instilled in his colleagues will continue to resonate within the business long after he has retired.

“It has been an honor working with the Vermiculite team and serving the business. I have learned so much during my time here, and I encourage all of you to embrace the value of integrity. Serve faithfully, and you will not only achieve personal success but also contribute to the greater good of the business,” remarked a visibly emotional Silaule. He further expressed his gratitude to management for their unwavering support and guidance throughout his career. The day ended on a high note as the team and management showered their beloved colleague with gifts.

Thank you for your impeccable service, Silaule! All the best with your retirement!

New employee Engagement

In this third installment of the Pala Connector's new engagement feature for 2024, we get to welcome and unpack the life of Eric Dzulani Matumba as he embarks on his internship journey at Palabora Mining Company. Matumba, a 25-year-old young man, is from Thohoyandou, a small township in Venda, in the Limpopo province of South Africa. He was visibly emotional when discussing his difficult childhood, which prompted him to invest a significant amount of effort in becoming the person he is today. He is the only male in a family of five and the lastborn child. He elaborated on how his background and upbringing serve as motivation to pursue a positive life and establish a presence in the mining industry.

Getting to know

Eric Dzulani Matumba

Matumba started his education journey at Progressive Primary School and subsequently transferred to Thohoyandou Technical School. In 2019, he matriculated with distinctions, leaving the Vhembe District Department of Education in awe. He then pursued a Bachelor of Engineering (Bing) in Electrical and Electronics at North West University. He received the PMC bursary as a result of his exceptional academic performance which provided him with the necessary funds to cover the full cost of his education, including tuition, study materials, accommodation, and pocket money for living expenses.

He was a prominent member of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineering (SAIEE) during his tertiary years. He persevered through all the academic obstacles until he completed his course in 2024. He is eager to contribute to the advancement of PMC by ensuring the efficient transfer of electrical energy from the source to the point of application, as electrical engineering is his “first love.”

Upon finishing his tertiary education, he was promptly offered a graduate program by PMC. With only two months into his employment at PMC he is already at ease in his surroundings.

He is currently stationed at Lift II Construction to gain experience as an Engineer in training and is responsible for the fire detection and suppression initiatives at Underground Lift II. He mentions that he enjoys learning from his supervisors and aspires to enhance

his own capabilities daily. Additionally, he is excited about future prospects and anticipates the opportunity to employ his expertise in electric machines, power conditioning, and power conversion.

When asked about his favorite aspects of working at PMC, he emphasized the company’s friendly staff and its strong focus on educational initiatives. He shared that his aspiration to achieve success in life is driven by the opportunity to apply his knowledge and skills in a profession that aligns with his interests.

When he is not at work, Dzulani enjoys exercising and playing soccer to maintain his health and fitness. He also mentions that he enjoys traveling, which allows him to spend more time with his family and friends.

“I am grateful to PMC for accepting my bursary application and ensuring that my academic journey was stress-free and seamless.” He also expressed his gratitude for the company’s assistance in advancing his professional development. Lastly, he would like to encourage PMC interns and graduates to extract the maximum amount of value from their internship programs. “Seasons of waiting are intended to empower you, challenge your faith, and prepare yourself for the forthcoming events. Cherish your waiting season and believe that only positive outcomes will follow.”

A warm welcome from the PMC Family. May you flourish in your new role!

SHEQ Corner

on Monday, 13 August 2024, the AMSHEQ team, led by Superintendent of Occupational Hygiene, Dankies Kgatle, embarked on a minewide roadshow to inspect various change houses and ensure they still adhere to the rules and regulations established by the Mine Health and Safety Act. The team was well received as safety representatives and employees were eager to address the issues they encounter daily at their change houses. This campaign aimed to recognize excellence in health and safety minewide and demonstrate AMSHEQ’s commitment to achieving zero harm and cleanliness.

Upon arrival at the change houses, the teams encountered issues such as improper drainage and electrical wiring, roof damage, heating systems, poor overall maintenance, and plumbing defects. This demonstrates unequivocally that there is still more work to be done by the business and employees to guarantee that we have functional and adequate change houses. The maintenance issues at the changing houses were thoroughly reviewed during the roadshow with the AMSHEQ team making recommendations and taking notes for their report. To ensure everything is still in order, they also promised to visit the sections on a regular basis for inspections and to introduce future campaigns.

Charles Khosa, Mine surface Health & Safety Representative, reminded the employees that the employer has provided us with suitable and adequate change houses to enable employees who perform work involving hazardous substances to change into working clothes at the start of their shift and to wash themselves and change their clothes at the end of their shift. “Now, it is our responsibility, as per Section 22 of MHSA to ensure that we use and take proper care of our protective clothing, equipment, other health and safety facilities provided for our protection, and personal use. We should also make sure that these facilities are preserved for generations to come”, he concluded.

Dineo Mabula, Occupational Hygiene Officer said, “We need to remember that cleanliness and safety is everyone’s responsibility, let us not wait for the next person to clean our change houses and surroundings, if you see something, take it upon yourself to do something, this way, we will have proper change houses throughout the mine.”

Thank you to the AMSHEQ team and the cleaners who work hard to make sure that the change houses are kept clean - together we can make a difference!

The energy on this day was just electrifying, with employees showing creativity at its best, from colorful costumes to safety messages on placards.

Colorful teams in rainbow outfits

Creative costumes: pirates, clowns, fairies, and more

Safety reminders from the Lift II team

Corporate sponsors

Over 1000 participants joined the fun!

To usher in the Spring season on Friday the 31st of August 2024, PMC employees left their offices and operation sites to participate in the fun walk. This year’s 3km fun walk was as usual meant for employees, suppliers and contractors. Starting and ending at the HR Parking Arena, the scenic route crossed operational areas with the potential to spot wild animals. Teams dressed in rainbow colors competed against the blooming veld, exceeding expectations. The massive attendance at this event truly displayed that Work-Life Balance should persist and be prioritized for the benefit of PMC employees’ physical and mental health.

An Electrifying Day of Fun and Team Spirit

Teams were thrilled to return to this annual event and flocked to the starting line early. In order to revitalize staff, PMC prepared a delightful walk with all the expected amenities. Some men wore skirts, tutus, and flashy wigs, boosting the fun barometer. Some came as pirates, clowns, fairies, hippies, or safety advocates with safety phrases and messages on their t-shirts and placards. This showed the

employees creativity at its best, the energy on this day was just electrifying!

‘‘Initiatives like this one fulfill meaningful objectives such as wellness, collaboration, diversity, and inclusion.’’ - Abby Ledwaba, Manager of Employee Relations and Communications.

This day presented the employees with an opportunity to network while dancing, twisting, whirling, cheering, laughing, and singing. All participants were hydrated at contractor-sponsored waterpoints throughout the route. The day went beyond teamwork, morale, and well-being. Raphael Kubayi, Safety Officer, urged everyone to follow safety standards to protect themselves as they walk on the PMC roads. Emergency, security, and environmental personnel patrolled the route to ensure everyone was safe and sound as they paraded in the sun.

The annual funwalk is not solely focused on camaraderie, team morale, and welfare. There is a clear and subtle rivalry between

SPECIAL THANKS!

To all our waterpoint companies and sponsors for making this event a resounding success:

AQS Ligquid Solutions, Bearings International, Bilnor Projects, Cajori Hotel, Fraser Alexander, Heqlen Mica, Jack’s Paint, Josmeck Trading, Khongo Investment, LH Marthinusen, MBA Security, MJM Electrical, Mopanie Group, Octopi Smart Solutions, PGN Plant hire, Qualito Craft Distillery, Seagle Telecom, Sefapane Lodge, Tharama Trading Enterprise, THG Tyre Specs, Thuthukani Paper, Viscoreg Enterprises, Voltex, Vakanayena and Waitech

the teams as they each exhibit their meticulously coordinated themes to establish their dominance. The Lift II led by Mining Manager, Rendani Nemathithi, once again stood out at the event. While walking from the Mining Area to the HR Parking Area, the team sang, danced, and displayed placards that advocated for workplace safety and highlighted their project milestones, safety achievements, and targets.

PMC management is proud of the organizing team and everyone else who contributed to the success of this event. Initiatives such as this one have the potential to fulfill numerous meaningful objectives, including wellness, collaboration, social cohesion, diversity, and inclusion. Abby Ledwaba, Manager of Employee Relations and Communications commended all participants who participated in the walk this year and urged the planning team to continue organizing successful and crowd-puller events.

“We are confident that those who participated in the walk will exhibit improved behavioral patterns and guide others in the work areas to safely complete their deliverables, thereby achieving Zero-Harm,” he stated.

PMC IS CURRENTLY BUILDING the largest mining upcast fan station in the southern hemisphere

The development, undercutting and later mining production of the Lift II level required additional ventilation to the Lift 1 operation. This was identified early in the project. Ventilation is required in a mine to provide breathable air to the employees, cool the workings and remove dust, fumes, gasses and heat. The plan was to develop two (2) raise bored up cast shafts from surface to the Lift 1 level which would connect to the return airways. These up-cast shafts would have each been topped with two (2) fans to provide the required ventilation.

The two (2) raise bored shafts were later replaced with a single blind sunk up cast shaft to be topped with four (4) fans. The new up cast shaft had to be out of the open pit as the current in-pit up cast shaft will be at risk of failure due to geotechnical stresses in Q2 2025. These stresses are because of block cave mining activities.

To meet the need for ventilation underground in both Lift 1 and Lift 2 a plan had to be made early in the project. The project could not wait for the new ventilation shafts to be completed. A lack

of ventilation would negatively impact mining development and project schedule. To overcome this PMC and Bluhm Burton Engineering (BBE) came up with a plan to convert the old exploration shaft on Bench 30 to an up-cast shaft as well as putting larger fans on the existing up cast shaft on Bench 28 in the open pit. The selection of these fans was a complex selection as the fans had to perform an interim duty on the in-pit shafts as well as be able to perform their permanent duty when moved to the new up-cast shafts. PMC and BBE successfully selected a 3MW fan

with a 4m diameter impeller, weighing almost 10 tons to do this. These fans are the largest mining fans in South Africa. These fans were successfully commissioned and are providing ventilation to the underground mine.

The race against time was now on to get the new up cast shaft operational before Q2 2025. BBE completed the engineering design complete with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling of the fan station. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a branch of fluid mechanics that uses computers to analyze and solve problems that involve fluid flows. The same technology used in the development of Formula 1 racing cars (often called an electronic wind tunnel). This ensured that the fans would perform optimally. A new 8.5m diameter up-cast shaft was successfully completed at the beginning of 2024 and construction of the fan station could commence. Contracts were awarded to LHM, Howden and Richline and the work has already commenced.

For Lift 1 and Lift II to operate three upcast fans need to always operate. It is therefore not possible to stop the in-pit fans and move them to surface. To achieve a seamless transition one (1) new fan must be built on surface. Once this fan is commissioned one of the fans in the pit can be switched off, refurbished and installed at the new fan station. This will be repeated until all the fans are moved out of the pit. The goal being to have 3 fans operating on surface by Q2 2025.

Contracts were awarded to LHM, Howden and Richline and the work has commenced. To date the Earthworks for the entire site has been completed involving layered compaction 1.2m deep. Foundations and bases for the first two (2) fans have been completed. The shaft top bend has been installed. This was a massive lift of 55 tons and is the size of a 3-story building. As this covers the open shaft this had to be assembled next to the shaft and then lifted into position as a single lift. This was safely achieved with the co-operation of contractors, PMC asset management riggers and PMC Proto team members collaborating for success. Currently the Quadfurcation, self-closing doors and 1st fan are being assembled. Alongside this the electrical

and instrumentation installation, PLC and SCADA programing is progressing well.

The construction site is a small site with a lot of concurrent activities. Continuous engagements and alignment sessions between PMC, contractors and sub-contractors are key in ensuring the success of the project. The project lead, Package Manager, Gavin Meredith is supported by a core team of 4 PMC people on site, Sandra van Heerden, Phillip Liebenberg, Fredl van der Merwe and Tlangelani Mthembi. They each play a pivotal role in the planning, construction, engineering and safety at the site. Each bringing a wealth of experience, skills, passion and dedication to the projects.

The team has created early start opportunities through innovative thinking to ensure commissioning dates will be met. Further to this the dates for the commissioning of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th fans have each been pulled back with two (2) months. This ensures that we successfully meet the milestone of having three (3) fans operating on surface by the time the in-pit shafts are at risk of failure in Q2 2025. The 1st Fan will be commissioned in December 2024, the 2nd in January 2025, the 3rd in April 2025 and the last fan in June 2025.

There is so much to look forward to in the new year! We are rallying behind this team while celebrating each milestone to accomplish the ultimate goal.

JOINING HANDS, CONNECTING COMMUNITIES!

PMC’s dedication to community upliftment is reflected during Mandela Month

The late former President Nelson Mandela once said: “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to helping others without expecting anything in return.” These words echo the work that was done by PMC leaders, employees and contractors over two days, 18th and 19th of July 2024.

Each year, an invite is given to everyone to open their hearts and pockets to give back to those less fortunate within our communities, and this year it was not too different with the Transformation team

targeting the disability centres within the Ba-Phalaborwa area to benefit from this campaign. The purpose of these centres is primarily to assist people with disabilities to achieve the highest potential and benefit of independent living by providing them with information, education and resources, while also providing meals daily.

The Rethushegile Disability Centre in Mashishimale and Nthabiseng Special School in Namakgale are the two centres that benefited from the initiative which comprises of young children to adults

with physical and/or psychological challenges. The PMC team comprising of Organizational Design, Employee Relations, Stakeholder Relations, Pensions and Communications, and joined by members of the PMC athletics club, did a great job of supplying, preparing and serving a hot meal to everyone at the two centres, including the caregivers. A gesture that was welcomed with warm smiles and amazing scenes of jubilation.

As much as food is a basic need for people, it is much needed and appreciated at the centres, where they are solely

dependent on the government’s social grant, which is not consistently paid on time. The centres are vital for providing support to disadvantaged members of the community, both children and adults rely heavily on donations to meet their daily needs. These donations ensure that these centres can continue to provide essential services and nourishment, offering hope and stability to those in need.

To wrap up Mandela Month, PMC in partnership with the Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality embodied the spirit of solidarity and care by joining forces to donate 150 food parcels to the members of Ba-Phalaborwa Communities on Friday the 27th of July 2024. The Transformation, Organisational Development & Design team packed food supplies for orphaned, vulnerable and child-headed homes.

The mayor of Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality, Cllr. Merriam Malatji indicated that this year’s donation only focused on child headed homes as it is something that they rarely do, and the food parcels symbolize more than just sustenance, they represent hope and the unwavering commitment of the municipality to its most vulnerable

citizens. Speaking about donations to homes for the disadvantaged, the Mayor said, “These contributions reflect Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy - a legacy of empathy, solidarity, and the conviction that no child should go hungry.”

‘‘The act of giving not only enriches the lives of others but also fosters a sense of connection and purpose, reminding us that kindness and generosity have the power to transform both the giver and the receiver.’’

On the day, Nozipho Zitha, Manager Transformation, Organisational Development & Design, shared that Palabora Copper is proud of making a significant difference in the communities where it operates. She also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continuing to support the municipality’s community improvement projects. “We are grateful for this opportunity to enhance Phalaborwa residents’ lives in a positive way through

this initiative that pays tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy and embodies the foundation’s theme: “It is in your hands”. We should never forget that every action we take can have a profound impact on the lives of others,” she said. These initiatives demonstrate PMC’s commitment to addressing pressing social issues, such as food security for vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. Aligning with PMC’s social responsibility, we are dedicated to bringing constructive change in our fence-line communities.

A heartfelt thank you to all the PMC contractors and suppliers who contributed to the success of this event. Some went above and beyond, dedicating their time to the community centres, making a real difference. We are grateful for the generous donations, including food parcels, kids’ treats, toiletries, staple foods, and soft drinks, provided by our contractors/suppliers, to the many who are beneficiaries of our Social Development initiatives. Special recognition goes to Marula Med Health Centre, THG Tyre and Specs, Klevan Mining, Mokhomole Projects, Buys Graphics, and Montsheng Magase Construction for their unwavering support.

ASISEBENZENI MAKES MEANINGFUL DONATION TO DISABILITY CENTRES IN LULEKANI

On the 31st of July 2024, Asisebenzeni Maintenance Services and Supply (Pty Ltd), one of PMC’s beneficiaries through the Supplier Development programme, commemorated Mandela Month by taking time to reflect on and celebrate the late former statesman’s unwavering dedication to justice, equality, and human dignity for everyone. The maintenance and supply services company based in Maseke Village invited the PMC Transformation team to bear witness and support them as they spent the day at Khomanani and Kurisani Disability Centers in Lulekani, where they donated food, hygiene products, soccer kits and gardening PPE.

Ester Hlongwane, Khomanani Disability Center Manager, and her support team, welcomed everyone to their centre. Their dedication and the love they provide to the disabled individuals at their center was touching. Khomanani looks after 60 disabled adults and Kurisani looks after 50 children with physical and mental disabilities. They were elated to meet with visitors and went on to sing gratitude songs. Ms. Hlongwane shared words of appreciation for the donations by Asisebenzeni. “Thank you for considering our center, this donation will go a long way in assisting us to feed our people. We are grateful for the huge impact

and difference you have made in the lives of our children today,” she said.

Tshidi Ngobeni, Transformation Superintendent, stated that Palabora Copper is proud of its Social Development beneficiaries who are continuously making a significant difference in the communities where they operate in. She also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continuing to support the community improvement projects. “We are grateful for this opportunity to enhance Phalaborwa residents’ lives in a positive way through this initiative that pays tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy. Let us carry the spirit of Madiba in our

hearts not just today, but every day,” she concluded.

A Big thank you to Asisebenzeni for giving back to the community, and remembering Nelson Mandela’s words of wisdom, “Be kind, and make a positive impact. Together we can create a brighter future for all.” The Transformation office is still accepting donations since the need in our less privileged communities extends beyond July.

If you want to give back to the community, kindly contact Rebotile Malatji, Specialist Transformation, via email: Rebotile.Malatji@palabora.co.za.

DTIC SITE VISIT… a great step in fostering collaboration

Palabora Copper Employee Trust (the Trust” hereafter) made history on the 23rd of April 2024 when it scooped an award at the inaugural Share Ownership Conference for being an Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) with the Highest Economic Impact on business performance.

The DTIC personnel visited Palabora on the 17th of July 2024, where they met and held interviews with the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Guangmin Wei, the Trustees, Organised Labour representatives and the Company Secretary who is also Secretary of the Trust. In its opening address, the DTIC gave a presentation that highlighted that a good ESOP premised on the following principles:

• Must drive economic inclusion and wealth creation for previously disadvantaged South Africans;

• Must be designed to drive strategic alignment between companies, shareholders, management and employees;

• Must deliver competitive advantages for companies through improved B-BBEE credentials; and

• Must steer an improvement in employee morale and organizational cultures.

The DTIC stated that the Trust encompassed the above values and was cited by the newly appointed Minister,

Mr. Parks Tau, as an example of what an ESOP structure needed to look like.

The Secretary of the Trust thereafter gave a presentation, which unpacked inter alia the history of the ESOP, governance structures as well as details regarding the Trust dividends paid over the years. Striking features which stood out for the DTIC are:

• Neither the Trust nor employees paid for the shares held in Palabora Copper (Pty) Ltd (PC), but rather were freely given by the parent company Palabora Mining Company (Pty) Ltd (PMC).

• The ESOP scheme is evergreen by nature, which means that the Trust will continue to hold shares in PC for as long as it exists, employees will continue to enjoy a dividend once declared by the Board of Directors of PC, subject to good financial performance and availability of cash.

• The Trust has a representative who sits at Palabora Copper Board meetings as enshrined in the shareholders agreements. The representative also has the same voting power as other Directors at the Board meetings.

• Whilst most ESOPS struggled with the concept of inclusion of non-black employees in ESOP schemes, the Trust has always been inclusive by nature.

• The DTIC further learnt that Palabora

Copper would be holding its first Annual General Meeting in August 2024, where Directors would be sharing shareholder information as required by Companies Act 71 of 2008 with all shareholders including the Trust.

‘‘At PMC we believe in empowering our people - all proactive employees from different backgrounds can have a positive impact on the success of the business. We will continue to work together with the government to drive programmes such as ESOPs to empower our employees. This approach is considered more of an obligation rather than a policy compliance.

- Mr Wei, PMC’s CEO ”

The resounding message from the Organised Labour and Trustees was that PC is headed in the right direction where transparency is concerned. They emphasized that engagements such as these were key in building trust within the business.

PMC HOSTS THE EASTERN LIMPOPO DISTRICT ASSOCIATION OF MINE RESIDENT ENGINEERS

Palabora Mining Company convened the ninth Association of Mine Resident Engineers (AMRE) meeting for the Eastern Limpopo District on September 20, 2024. These meetings are convened to facilitate the exchange of progress reports and development initiatives with other mines in the region, as well as to address concerns regarding engineering work in the mining sector. Additionally, they serve to communicate safety improvement plans for engineers.

The Eastern Limpopo District is home to hard-rock mining enterprises that comprise the AMRE group. It is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the development of highly educated and experienced professionals by promoting networking among engineers. This forum is dedicated to safeguarding the interests of its members and conducting quarterly meetings to address all topics related to the work of engineers in the mining industry.

PMC was represented by the team of engineers, which was headed by Chief Engineer Simon Mthombeni.

The team discussed the mine's engineering accomplishments, challenges, and potential. Elect Nkuna presented on the Production of the North Winder Upgrade, Thendo Ramathavha on TMM Brake Testing, and Rendani Rathogwa on the New Boiler Permit Journey Map. The presentations were coherent and facilitated the audience's comprehension of the intricacies of each subject. They did, in fact, exceed expectations in their investigations and research.

Zacharia Tsotetsi, the Engineering Manager at the Booysen Platinum Mine, accepted the invitation to attend this meeting. He addressed several of the challenges that engineers in different districts face, including a heavy burden, a lack of resources, and tight budgets. He reminded the engineers that they must persist and continue with their work, despite the challenges they face.

“These monthly meetings have a significant impact on mines in our district and even nationwide as we engage, discuss optimizing methods to boost productivity and resolve health and safety challenges. More active engagements, skills, development, and training

interventions are needed, particularly at the senior engineering management level. The core of every mine is engineering as a production plant or mine would not function optimally without engineers,” he said. As he concluded his remarks, he also expressed his admiration for PMC's significant development since their most recent meeting.

"I am delighted to observe that you have implemented the final initiatives we discussed for safety enhancements, and they are now being utilized to your advantage." We should put on our safety helmets and ensure that we arrive home safely each day as engineers. Additionally, I would like to encourage all engineers to participate in at least one of our monthly meetings to address engineering-related concerns and establish a network. Simon Mthombeni concluded, "We, as PMC, are eager to participate in additional meetings in order to foster collaboration among us, as we strive to be more innovative in our respective mines in the Eastern district."

Thank you to the PMC Engineering Team who attended and engaged at the 9th AMRE Eastern Limpopo District Meeting!!

René Coetzee: An advocate for small wins and incremental gains

stories of people that came from humble beginnings, who worked hard and achieved greatness are what inspires René. He believes that continuous, small wins and incremental gains ultimately result in bigger success stories. “A colleague of mine, from Auxiliary Services, is the epitome of such a success story and I salute him for his modesty, gratefulness and achievements” he said.

Born in Carletonville, but raised in Klerksdorp, a small mining/farming town in the Northwest province has moulded René and paved his way for where he is today careerwise. Married and blessed with two children, Rene possesses a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and specialises in the Energy Management field. He is most likely to be described as a hardworking, goal oriented and caring person if you were to ask anyone to describe him in three words.

A Journey of Dedication and Impact

His career began in the energy consulting environment before moving to the steel and mining industry. In 2025 he will be celebrating 20 years in the energy industry and hopes to continue to contribute to it for the next two decades. René took us through memory lane as he narrates how his journey with Palabora Mining Company (PMC) began; He started working at PMC as a contractor in 2013, employed as a Principal Mechanical Engineer for an Australian energy consulting company who initiated the Energy Management Program for the business. His hard work, passion and dedication led to him being permanently employed by PMC as the Lead Energy Advisor in 2015.

Being responsible for the Energy Management Program he aims to

reduce operational expenditures through energy and water cost saving initiatives that ultimately assist in improving the business’s bottom line results. Developing energy and water saving forecasts, incorporating energy efficiency and process optimisation into designs and verifying monthly electricity and water bills also falls under René’s scope of work. He is part of the NRG Excellence Team within the Asset Management, Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (AMSHEQ) -, Engineering Services division. He also serves as the Customer Liaison that coordinates all affairs between PMC and Eskom, involving aligning maintenance activities, coordinating load curtailment emergency events and other aspects related to electricity.

One of his greatest accomplishments in his professional career was when he was chosen to represent the South African operations of the biggest steel manufacture in the world, through a skills & knowledge transfer program, that enabled him to work in Canada for three months.

Balancing Professional Success with Personal Passions

His keen interest in aviation is compelling and many may find it surprising to learn that he not only flies powered aircraft but also flies sailplanes competitively across great distances.

Times have changed and that has sparked the response René gave when asked about his childhood memory. He mentioned that being able to safely play outside in the streets and veld, day in day out with lifelong friends without having a worry or care in the world, was memorable. Being brought up in a household that was supportive and stable has provided René with a platform that allowed him to excel and pursue his dreams. He wants his legacy to be that of someone who was dependable, honourable and someone that made a positive difference in society.

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is one of the phrases which he lives by.

1. Tell us a bit about yourself - your background, birthplace, and career journey at PMC.

I’m the first-born of six children, married, and blessed with three wonderful kids. I’m originally from Senwabarwana, also known as Bochum, a township in the Blouberg Local Municipality. I studied Business Management at Mopani TVET College in Phalaborwa. After my studies, I worked as a Financial Advisor at a major financial institution, where I discovered my passion for interacting with different people. Although I’m naturally shy, I’ve gradually overcome it through my work. I consider myself self-disciplined, hardworking, and driven. I always aim to be open, honest, and fair in everything I do.

I joined PMC in 2011 as a Repairperson and was the only woman in the crew. That’s where I learned to use the bobbejaan spanner! I later moved to Underground Mining, where I worked as a Water Canon Operator and then as a Data Capturer. Today, I’m a Business Administrator for Underground Mining.

2. What are your main responsibilities at work?

I manage underground mining office resources, oversee budget activities, analyse financial data, and create reports. I also organize meetings and events, manage the managers’ diaries, and remind them of their schedules. Additionally, I handle the printing of licenses, send out

Employee Profile: Cate Baatseba Mohale Position: Business

notifications and briefs, and manage two boardrooms (Codesa and Arena). I also create gate access permits for the underground team. The biggest challenge is juggling multiple tasks, especially as I work with three managers, and I need to ensure that I deliver on all their expectations.

3. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love travelling and walking, especially in nature, where I can enjoy the quiet and the melody of the birds. I also love cooking and experimenting with new recipes.

4. What’s something surprising about you that people might not know?

I’m what you might call an “introverted extrovert” - I love being in crowded spaces, especially when attending gospel shows and concerts. Also, many people are surprised to learn that I’m a great listener and advisor. I really take the time to listen carefully and give advice, which has helped me build strong connections and trust with others.

5. If you could pursue any career, what would it be and why?

I would love to pursue a career in Human Resources or Employee Relations because I believe it would allow me to positively influence the well-being and productivity of employees, helping to create a more motivated and positive workplace culture.

6. What advice do you have for employees, given the company’s recent focus on cash-saving efforts?

We all need to be responsible and accountable for what we have, so that we can make it last. If we manage our resources wisely, we’ll overcome financial challenges, and the company’s finances will return to normal in no time.

7. What does Heritage Day mean to you, and why is it important to celebrate? Heritage Day is about celebrating our history, traditions, and customs. It’s important to celebrate it proudly so that our children understand where we come from and how things are done, ensuring they carry on these traditions even after we’re gone. Our children must know their family stories and believe in their own potential.

8. What would you like to see featured in Pala-Connector, and why?

I’d like to see a section that addresses financial issues. Many employees struggle with financial management, and having guidance in this area would be really beneficial.

9. Can you share your favourite quote or mantra with other employees? “Instead of thinking about how hard your journey is, think about how great your story will be - and always remember that positivity attracts good things.”

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I would describe myself as a highly motivated and adaptable individual who is passionate about learning and personal growth. I’m patient and love working with others, sharing ideas, and collaborating to achieve common goals.

2. Where were you born, and can you share a bit about your family?

I was born in Makhushane, Phalaborwa. I’m the fourth of six children - three boys and three girls. I’m also happily married and blessed with three beautiful children - two boys and a girl.

3. Who has been the most influential person in your life outside of your family?

It would have to be one of my teachers at Matome Malatji High School. She played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. Her words of encouragement and affirmations guided me and continue to influence my life in profound ways. I’ll always be grateful for the impact she had on me.

4. What is something fun or surprising about you that most people don’t know?

I can officiate ceremonies as a Master of Ceremonies (MC), and I believe I’m quite good at it! It’s a talent not everyone is aware of.

Employee Profile: Anikie Mametja

5. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love cooking and spending time in the garden. These hobbies help me relax and unwind.

6. How long have you been with PMC, and what is your current role?

I’ve been with PMC for nine years, and I currently serve as a Divisional Health and Safety Representative for the Vermiculite Business.

7. What advice would you give to someone just starting in your field?

My advice would be: Be safe, be smart, and be patient. These qualities are essential in our line of work.

8. What are your main responsibilities at PMC?

My job involves conducting inspections, attending Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) meetings, identifying hazards, and implementing control measures to mitigate incidents. I encourage employees to report hazards in their work areas to ensure adherence to SHEQ standards. Additionally, I represent employees in all health and safety matters.

9. What do you find most challenging about your job?

Dealing with difficult people can be

challenging, but I see it as an opportunity to learn new skills, particularly when it comes to problem-solving and conflict resolution.

10. How do you balance your work life with your personal life?

Time management is key to balancing work and personal life. I set clear boundaries between the two and make sure to schedule time for work, hobbies, and personal interests.

11. We recently celebrated Women’s Month in August. What are your thoughts on women’s transformation at PMC and in South Africa?

I believe PMC is doing well in terms of transforming women’s roles, especially with the Women in Mining (WIM) initiative, which plays a crucial role for women at PMC. On a national level, South Africa is also on the right track, as we see more women in ministerial positions and top management roles.

12. In terms of legacy, what do you want to be remembered for?

I want to be remembered as the “lady of compliance.” I strongly advocate for compliance, particularly when it comes to health and safety standards. In my division, everyone knows I don’t tolerate non-compliance, as it compromises both the quality of work and the image of the business.

THE PMC EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME TEAM GOES ON A SUBSTANCE ABUSE MINEWIDE ROADSHOW…

Substance abuse is a serious matter that should not be taken casually. It occurs when you use alcohol, prescription medicine, and other legal and illegal substances too much or in the wrong way. It differs from addiction, and many people with substance abuse problems can quit or can change their unhealthy behavior. Conversely, addiction is a disease. It implies that you are unable to discontinue use, even if your condition results in damage.

The PMC Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Team organized a minewide roadshow to educate employees about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, as the population most at risk of using drugs is individuals aged 15 to 34, according to the World Drug Report.

The roadshow involves the team touring various sections of the mine, and employees arrive in large numbers to participate in and attend the discussion on this social issue. This initiative was significant in that it addressed issues that were directly related to addiction and relevant to the experiences of most of the employees. The EAP team provided employees with strategies for managing substance abuse and informed them of

the rehabilitation services that are available to PMC employees.

‘‘Recovery begins with seeking help - our Employee Assistance Programme is here to support you on the journey to overcoming substance abuse.

- Nandi Nkosi, Employee Wellness Practitioner

“Substance abuse is at an all-time high for different reasons in our society. We want to carry our message of hope to those who need it and to those who wait for our team to uplift them during their journey to recovery. Our services are open to all PMC employees and their loved ones, make sure that you efficiently utilize the services provided to you by the company,” said Nandi Nkosi, Employee Wellness Practitioner.

“There are numerous reasons why substance abuse is at an all-time high in our society. We aspire to convey our message of hope to those who require it and to those who anticipate our team’s support during their recovery. Our services

are available to all PMC employees and their loved ones. It is important that you make the most of the resources provided to you by the company,” said Nandi Nkosi, Employee Wellness Practitioner.

Abby Ledwaba, Manager: Employee Relations and Communications reminded the employees that alcohol, substance abuse and addiction is a difficult experience causing personal and professional hardships. However, PMC offers a vast array of resources to assist them in navigating this difficult period. He stated, “Recovery is delayed when denied; therefore, employees who have substance abuse issues should seek assistance as soon as possible.”

Our gratitude goes to all PMC executives for their compassion, and to the employees who participated in the roadshow in their respective departments.

For more information about alcohol or drug addiction contact: Nandi Nkosi on ext: 8510 or on: Nandi.Nkosi@palabora.co.za.

#SAYYESTOLIFE #HELP IS AVAILABLE!!! #HEREFORYOU

PMC’S ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME Spurs Growth for Local SMME's

Palabora Mining Company (PMC), through its Enterprise Development (ED) programme, has successfully created collective value for local Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME's) in the Ba-Phalaborwa region. The ED programme serves as a social intervention, bringing together various partners within the local ecosystem to align and guide businesses in creating shared value. This initiative is particularly effective at creating economic opportunities within PMC’s operations, helping to foster the growth of its beneficiaries.

On Tuesday, 30th July 2024, PMC celebrated the offboarding of 45 SMME's that were onboarded into the ED programme in 2020. After three years of collaboration, these SMME's shared inspiring stories of the significant rewards and growth they’ve experienced as a result of their involvement in the programme.

Throughout the programme, PMC provided support and training to help these businesses address both common and urgent challenges faced in their daily operations. The mine is proud to see these 45 beneficiaries exit the programme with clear indicators of success. Records show that many of the SMME's have experienced

notable growth, with some even expanding their offerings beyond PMC’s operational perimeter and into wider Ba-Phalaborwa communities. These beneficiaries are now recognized as true social change agents, contributing to their communities through sustainability efforts, job creation, skills transfers, and talent development.

‘‘

Through dedicated support and training, PMC’s Enterprise Development programme has empowered local SMME's to grow, thrive, and drive meaningful change in Ba-Phalaborwa communities.’’

Their achievements are particularly commendable considering the challenges they faced. All 45 SMME's managed to survive the hardships of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, which saw many businesses fail under the weight of economic disruptions. Despite the excruciating business interruptions that collapsed even affluent enterprises, these SMME's kept their operations afloat. What’s more impressive is the diversity among the beneficiaries - some were young, others were older, many came from

disadvantaged or destitute backgrounds, and some were first-time business owners. Despite these personal challenges, they persevered and emerged as successful contributors to the local economy.

The impact of these SMME's, whether viewed individually or collectively, is undeniable. They have significantly strengthened the Ba-Phalaborwa economy and continue to play a vital role in the region’s development.

The event concluded with PMC’s Manager for Organizational Design and Transformation, Nozipho Zitha, signing off the Assets Release Register and officially marking the completion of the programme. In her address to the beneficiaries, she said, “PMC is proud of all that you have achieved. You are the backbone of our communities. Today marks the end of our three-year agreement, but our collaboration is lifelong. Always know that our doors are open to you whenever you need guidance.”

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT EXPANDS ADULT EDUCATION TRAINING (AET) TO SELWANA

On the 7th of August last year, Palabora Mining Company (PMC) extended its Adult Education Training (AET) programme to Ga-Selwana, reinforcing its commitment to community development and education. The event, held at Makikele High School, welcomed residents from Ga-Selwana and nearby villages. Prominent stakeholders in attendance included members of the Selwana tribal authority, Ba-Phalaborwa municipality delegates, representatives from the Department of Education, LEOLO Community Trust, as well as teachers and community members.

This initiative follows PMC’s promise, outlined in its recent Social & Labour Plan (SLP), to deliver the AET programme for the benefit of Ba-Phalaborwa residents. AET is an outcomes-based programme that equips adults with basic learning tools, knowledge, skills, and nationally recognized qualifications. By extending this programme, PMC aims to empower participants and open up opportunities for apprenticeships and bursaries.

‘‘ Our goal is to drive progress and provide learners with the opportunity to further their education, opening doors to apprenticeships, bursaries, and future roles within PMC. - Mabore Macheru ’’

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Mabore Macheru, PMC’s Manager for Training, Development & Contractor Onboarding Services, stressed the importance of the initiative: “Our goal

is to drive progress and provide learners with the opportunity to further their education. We encourage learners to stay committed and complete this programme, as it is designed to help them apply for apprenticeships, bursaries, and even future roles within PMC.”

She further emphasized the long-term impact of the programme, urging participants not to drop out, highlighting that this initiative is aimed at helping them build a foundation for continued education and future employment opportunities.Bridget Mayayise, Manager at Concentrator

Operations, shared a real-world example of AET’s impact. She recounted how colleagues at the concentrator plant, who participated in the AET programme, have been able to apply the knowledge they gained to perform their duties more effectively. She closed with a quote from Maya Angelou: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

This event and the extension of the AET programme reaffirm PMC’s dedication to empowering the community through education and training, enabling residents to achieve both personal and professional growth.

REFINERY WOMEN CELEBRATE WOMEN’S DAY IN STYLE

As the month of August ended, the ladies from Refinery department arranged a celebratory lunch at the Qualito/Route 71 Restaurant where they interacted, broke bread together and shared meaningful life lessons. The event took place on Friday the 30th of August 2024.

The programme entailed various topics to educate and enlighten fellow women on issues that affects them in the work environment. The dressed up ladies gathered to mark this month that is usually commemorated as a tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union buildings on the 09th of August 1956 in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.

According to the DMRE, women make up 15% of the mining industry, which places the industry behind others in the country (Department of Labour, 2018). South Africa also lags behind other mining countries such as Australia and Canada, which, though still relatively low, have a slightly higher representation of women in mining at 17% and 16% respectively.

Palabora’s refinery department women incorporated their lunch with a programme which entailed various speakers from other departments to share insights on topics such as:

1. Spirituality and being a female in a male dominated environment - Mrs. NS Neluvhalani

2. Becoming a female leader in a male dominated environment - Mrs. B Maake

3. Personal Development - Mrs. KF Nziyane

The ladies were very interactive during the session and requested similar events in future. They all agreed that knowledge is power.

In another gesture of good faith, contractors at PMC donated golfers to all the PMC Women in Mining Representatives for Women’s Month.

We are proud to be associated with companies who share our values and objectives!

PALABORA’S LAOMO (BEST EMPLOYEES)

JET OFF TO CHINA ON EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR EXPEDITION

BEST EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH VISITED CHINA

Recognizing hard work and rewarding your employees is mutually beneficial for them and the business because:

• It motivates people, which will boost teamwork and productivity.

• It improves your workplace culture, creating a supportive work environment.

• It helps retain top talent and reduce staff turnover.

For Palabora Copper, rewarding hard work and innovation is paramount to creating a harmonious work environment.

PMC Executive leadership saw it befitting to reward all employee of the month winners for 2024 by sending them on a seminar organized by the Chinese government.

The employees who were selected and attended the two-week long seminars are listed on the side. The seminars covered several aspects and topics such as:

• Business Data collection, Synthesizing and Analyzing for Developing Countries.

• Training Course for Coal Industry Professionals and Technical Personnel in Developing Countries

• Soil and Water Conservation and Desertification Control in Developing Countries.

The business was well represented at the Seminar for Developing countries, thank you for all your hard work and dedication.