BUSINESS AND TRAINING 13 you studied ." But I didn ’ t let that stop me . I found an opportunity through a programme aimed at helping young people like me become plumbers . I grabbed it with both hands , and even though I had to prove myself constantly to customers , seeing their confidence grow when they saw my work motivated me .
My family didn ’ t fully support me because they didn ’ t understand plumbing . During my apprenticeship , especially during the Experiential-Based Learning ( EBL ) phase , I had to work harder to earn respect and trust .
In the beginning , my partner on site didn ’ t take my ideas seriously because I was a student — and a woman . But instead of letting that demotivate me , I saw it as an opportunity to prove myself . I stayed proactive and accountable , always asking my supervisor questions about upcoming tasks and spending time getting to know my partner better .
That approach made a difference . I began to identify my partner ’ s strengths and weaknesses , which helped me support him and build a collaborative relationship . Soon , we started working as a team , and I earned his respect .
" Every time I solve a problem , I feel a deep satisfaction , knowing I ’ ve made a difference ."
During my first week of EBL , we were tasked with above-ground drainage work , which involved digging trenches . The team would often joke about me handling the hard labour , like removing rocks and soil . But I waited for my opportunity . When they paused to rest , I grabbed a spade and started clearing the soil . They were surprised not just by my determination but also by my technique .
That moment changed their perception . They realised I could handle the most physically demanding tasks , which are often considered ‘ men ’ s work ’. It was a pivotal moment for me — and for them .
Every time I solve a problem , I feel a deep satisfaction knowing I ’ ve made a difference . But what inspires me even more is challenging stereotypes and changing how the world sees women in the plumbing industry .
I ’ ve seen positive changes , especially in the way people trust women in the field . For example , my supervisor now assigns me tasks to complete independently which shows his confidence in my abilities .
Anita gets down to the job
at least 30 % of the workforce . I ’ ve even seen male colleagues rely on us to get the job done , which speaks volumes about the growing respect for women in this trade .
To learn more about how you can hire an apprentice or support BluLever Education ’ s mission to empower women in trades , visit BluLever ’ s Women on Tools page . Together , we can continue to break barriers and build a more inclusive industry . PA
" Be yourself , and never hesitate to ask questions when you don ’ t understand something . Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow and develop new skills . The journey may not be easy , but it ’ s worth it ."
In some plumbing companies , I ’ ve observed that women make up
April 2025 Volume 31 I Number 02 www . plumbingafrica . co . za