WOMEN IN MINING
Women in the front line of progress at BME
Product Manager for AN Products , Equipment and Services ( Australia ) and Nelisile Thanjekwayo , BME ’ s Head of Legal . Each had their own inspirational message to offer women working in the sector .
“ Be patient with yourself and trust the journey ,” said Dr Pathak . “ Celebrate small wins and stay committed to your dreams and aspirations .”
Thanjekwayo encouraged women in mining to “ be present ”. In the end , she said , life is about moments , so stop and take these in .
“ Breathe . Relax . It ’ s all going to work out ,” she advised . “ Diversify your skill set and embrace the change that comes with learning more .”
BME , a member of the Omnia group , is leading the charge in creating a future where the mining sector offers attractive and rewarding career paths for women . By empowering women and providing them with abundant opportunities , BME is contributing to equality and progression in the sector .
“ Mining has seen significant progress in recent years thanks to the remarkable efforts and resilience of women in this sector ,” said BME Managing Director Ralf Hennecke . “ Their dedication , skills and determination have paved the way for meaningful change and transformation .”
According to the Minerals Council of South Africa , the number of women employed in the mining industry has risen from around 11,400 in 2002 to almost 72,200 in 2023 . Women make up 15 % of the country ’ s mining labour force of about 475,000 people .
On South Africa ’ s National Women ’ s
Day on 9 August , the company will salute these trailblazers – who inspire further advancements in gender equality within the industry , said Hennecke .
There are highly-skilled and qualified women throughout the business , he said , including senior levels of operation and management – with roles ranging from technical and engineering to law and safety . While the day is part of South Africa ’ s heritage , BME applies these principles across all its global territories .
“ National Women ’ s Day is a moment to celebrate their achievements and shed light on their struggles , so that we can continue working together towards a more inclusive and diverse mining sector ,” he said . He highlighted that women brought insights and abilities that added depth and strength to the organisation – while inspiring other women to join the industry .
Among the women in senior roles are Dr Rakhi Pathak , BME ’ s Senior
As a Technician ( Electronics ) in the company , Mmono Mokhuthu highlighted safety as a paramount value in mining , and encouraged everyone to prioritise compliance with regulations and follow proper procedures .
“ Develop a deep understanding of mining equipment and systems , focusing on maintenance , troubleshooting and repair ,” said Mokhuthu . “ Your expertise will contribute to efficient and safe mining operations .”
Hennecke concluded that , as an organisation , all colleagues at BME play a role in driving the empowerment of women , to build a more equitable industry and broaden opportunities for everyone .
“ Together , regardless of our gender identity , we can strive towards achieving our group ’ s purpose of innovating to enhance life , together creating a greener future ,” he said .
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