BUSINESS AND TRAINING 9
Women on Site
Edited by
Tanya Olckers – Submitted by BluLever Education
Plumbing Africa thanks BluLever Education for providing coverage of their ongoing Women on Tools campaign , which aims to change the narrative about women in the trades by sharing the success stories of their female apprentices .
Vuthlari Mabunda had just finished her civil and building engineering course at South West Gauteng college when she was chosen to join BluLever . This is her story in her own words .
I was inspired to choose plumbing because I discovered that this trade requires a lot of problem solving and creativity . Above all I get an opportunity to create a healthy environment for our society . This career is vital in our day-to-day lives as we serve our people like doctors and nurses as we ensure that water is provided and also waste is being disposed in a way that it can not cause any sickness .
For me being in male dominated industry I felt the need to always prove to myself that I can do it . I was nervous because it felt like people were waiting for me to make a mistake and then they can remind me that there are other jobs more suitable for “ women ”.
Images supplied by BluLever Education
I was so scared that I would be constantly be compared to a male apprentice , that some people who might not be open minded might block my learning journey by limiting me in doing certain jobs as they don ’ t think a women could handle it .
I had to take more initiative to prove to the people that I work with that I am ready to be taught and once I ’ ve learnt I always aim for quality and production , meaning that with each test given I give my best and always meet the daily targets given .
At first , I felt undermined and not valued . I felt I needed to push harder before I was trusted and given that chance , yet it seemed that male apprentices were treated differently . But then I saw an opportunity to shine even in this challenge . This motivated me to put in extra work and pay more attention to what I did as I knew that I didn ’ t just prove myself to others , but my aim was to learn as much as I can . One day , then , I might inspire a fellow sister who might say , “ If Vuthlari did it , what will stop me ?”
I remember during EBL when I had to dig and lay a 25 metre below ground drainage , with just a plumber and one assistant . I was the one who was responsible for doing the hydraulic load , gradient and pipe sizing of the drain . With just the information from the client ’ s brief and the lessons from our tech classes I was able to get this right and even the plumber learnt a new way which was easier and more convenient for us to work . I love that there ’ s more that I can do as a woman on site . I believe I was able to prove myself by always being present and ready to share the knowledge I have . Continuous learning has always made it easy for me to prove myself each time an opportunity presented itself .
My approach to problem-solving , attention to detail , and communication skills have contributed positively to team dynamics and customer interactions . For instance , I have often found that customers appreciate a different viewpoint , and my ability to empathise and communicate effectively has led to high customer satisfaction .
My role has inspired other women to consider careers in the trades , promoting diversity and inclusivity within the industry .
There has been a gradual but noticeable increase in acceptance and support for women entering and advancing in this field . One positive change is the growing number of companies actively promoting gender diversity and inclusion .
Many organisations now provide mentorship programmes , scholarships , and training opportunities specifically aimed at encouraging women to join the trades . For example , my company recently implemented a mentorship program where experienced female professionals guide and support new female apprentices , fostering a more welcoming and empowering environment .
Gender bias and stereotypes can persist , and women may sometimes have to work harder to prove their competence . There can also be a lack of adequate facilities and equipment designed with women in mind , which can be an ongoing issue .
October 2024 Volume 30 I Number 8 www . plumbingafrica . co . za