ASSOCIATIONS 9
We build the infrastructure, the homes, and the backbone of this country. It is time we build a culture through Friends in Trades that keeps the people behind the tools alive, supported, and thriving. This October, do not just read about mental health, take action. Follow F. I. T. on social media, join our activities throughout the month, and share these tools with your crew on site.
Follow F. I. T on TikTok.
Follow F. I. T on Instagram.
Stand beside your team, tag a friend who needs to hear this, and let us change the trades together.
Reach out to the team at Friends in Trades today, and let’ s co-author your workforce wellness blueprint. PA
A company that looks after its tools is efficient. A company that looks after its people is unstoppable. To get in touch with the FIT Committee, please email fit @ iopsa. org or WhatsApp them on + 27( 0) 82 218 7454.
“ This October, do not just read about mental health, take action.”
Phuti Bertha Kgole ' s plumbing journey
Contributed By BluLever Education, edited by Megan O’ Connor
BUSINESS AND TRAINING
Phuti Bertha Kgole, from the SpannerScouts cohort, is proving that skill, determination and a willingness to keep learning are more important than outdated stereotypes.
All images supplied by B luLever Education
Now completing her third year of employer-based learning with Remper Plumbing and Projects, she has earned the respect of her colleagues by letting her workmanship speak louder than assumptions.
Her decision to pursue plumbing came from a passion for practical work and solving real-world problems. " I chose plumbing because I love working with my hands and solving problems. It is a great career with good job security and financial freedom."
Like many women entering the trades, she was unsure of what to expect in a predominantly male environment. " At first, I felt nervous about entering a field with mostly men. I worried about being strong enough and fitting in," says Kgole.
It did not take long for her to realise that success in plumbing is about much more than physical strength. " I soon learned that plumbing is about using the right tools and techniques, not just physical strength.
October 2026 Volume 32 I Number 08 www. plumbingafrica. co. za