BUSINESS AND TRAINING 15
Through her approach to work, she continues to influence perceptions.“ I believe I bring a different energy – being hardworking, focused and willing to learn. Over time, this has helped shift how some of my colleagues see women in the trade.”
While progress is visible, challenges remain.“ When I was still in construction, it was more challenging. Some of the men would mock us and make comments like we asked for‘ 50 / 50’ but couldn’ t handle the work. That made it harder to feel accepted.”
However, her move into maintenance revealed a changing landscape.“ Clients are often happy and even relieved to see a woman on the team. There’ s more appreciation and respect, and people are becoming more open to women in this industry.”
Even with these positive shifts, she recognises that there is still work to be done.“ There are still challenges, especially on construction sites where stereotypes and negative attitudes exist. I think more awareness and equal opportunities for women to prove themselves are still needed. But overall, things are slowly changing for the better.”
Her message to young women considering the trade is clear and grounded in her own experience:“ You can do anything you put your mind into. Don’ t let the idea of it being a‘ male-dominated industry’ stop you before you even start.”
“ It won’ t always be easy, but persistence will take you very far. You have to believe in yourself and keep pushing even when people doubt you. At the end of the day, there’ s no‘ man’ or‘ woman’ in this industry – we are all artisans. What matters is your skill, your work ethic, and your willingness to learn,” says Keeme. PA
June 2026 Volume 32 I Number 04 www. plumbingafrica. co. za