Navigating the Male-Dominated Mining Sector

South Africa's mining sector has long been a significant contributor to the country's economy, known for its vast mineral wealth. However, one glaring issue has persisted for years - the industry's male-dominated nature. Women have traditionally faced numerous challenges in accessing opportunities and breaking into key roles within the mining sector.

I caught up with some of the female entrepreneurs on the Sasol sponsored Women In Mining Incubator programme at WomHub to ask for their insights on the following:

Keamogetswe Matsho, Founder of Lamont Trading and Supplies:

Can you tell us about your journey into the mining industry? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

"My journey into the mining industry started after working as a management consultant for a drilling company that operated in the public sector (drilling boreholes for government projects at schools and rural communities) and also in the mining sector. I was contracted to corporatise the Group of companies and also work with a team to facilitate the acquisition of another company that operated in the mining sector too. I spent the year learning a lot about the industry that had always fascinated me, but had always felt a bit out of reach. After the year of operating as a consultant that filled in the role of Group Chief Operating Officer, and having identified the gaps when it comes to transformation in the mining sector, I made the decision to take the leap and not only offer consulting services, but rather products (namely drilling consumables and ground engaging tools) and mining drilling services through my company, Lamont Trading and Supplies"

Mining has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. What were some of the initial challenges you faced when entering this industry, and how did you overcome them?

“Lamont Trading and Supplies is still a relatively new entrant when it comes to operating in the mining industry and with that said, the initial challenges that any company will face within the first three years of entering a new market are ones that we are still grappling with. The male dominated industry is tough, you need to have a thick skin for it. I have decided to not be deterred when doors have been closed in front of me and I have built a network and also found great allies and supporters  (both male and female) of my ultimate vision for my company.  My manufacturing partners and clients (predominantly male) have left a seat on the table for me. The journey still continues as we strive to grow the company from where it is today and I will continue to face the same challenges in new environments, and I will still give it my best shot. ”

Building a network and finding mentors can be crucial for career growth. Have you had female mentors or role models in the mining industry? How have they influenced your career?

I have not had a female mentor in the mining industry before. I would definitely love to have one, to be honest. There is so much more to learn about navigating this complex industry. I have however had a female mentor before, she shaped the trajectory of my future over 10 years ago. She's a fierce entrepreneur who operates in a different male dominated industry respectively.

My role models include but are not limited to:  Lindiwe Nakedi , MD of Gubhani Exploration,  Nolitha Fakude, Nombasa Tsengwa and Folorunsho Alakija to name a few.

In your experience, what unique perspectives or skills do women bring to the mining industry that can positively impact the sector?

"Women have a rare combination of critical thinking skills and intuition. We move with care, precision and foresight, which are all essential soft skills and qualities in the mining sector. We are committed to delivering excellence due to understanding that our performance is always viewed under a microscopic lense. Women, being the recipient of prejudice and biases in the mining industry, are also key in advancing the gender diversity and equity agenda in businesses they run and leadership and management positions they hold in large mining corporations. As women, we always want to see more women in the rooms we occupy and understand the interventions that need to be put in place to create an enabling environment for such.”

What advice would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to enter or excel in the mining industry, especially in South Africa?

“1. Know your industry and identify the gaps that you believe you will be able to fill.
2. Understand your products and service offering, unpack it and ensure that your offering provides value to the end user.
3. Do not doubt your capabilities. If you believe that God has called you into operating in the mining industry, then go for it.
4. Do not give up. The first three years are hard for some, but persevere and build or join a network and community of other young female entrepreneurs so that you are comforted in knowing that the challenges you are facing are not unique but are somewhat unfortunately a "rite of passage".
5. Know your worth and do not let anyone talk you out of the value that you can offer and do not compromise yourself at all. It is ok to walk out of a deal that may lead to you compromising your integrity. It is never worth it.”

What do you believe needs to change within the mining industry, both at the company and societal levels, to create a more inclusive environment for women?

"I advocate for substantial transformation in the mining industry to empower women. This involves supporting women-owned businesses through initiatives like Sasol's Women in Mining Programme, increasing women's presence in senior management and procurement roles, creating a strong pipeline from education to specialized jobs, addressing prejudices about gender roles in mining, and providing financial access. Moreover, the industry must ensure women-owned businesses have market access, break down entry barriers, and involve more men in these efforts for a truly inclusive mining sector."

Nqobile Valentia Veronica Mkhabela, Founder of Siyanqobangamandla Trading:

What inspired you to enter the mining industry despite its challenges?

“My journey into the mining industry has had a fair share of challenges, but the thought of giving up wasn’t an option. For in the midst of adversity, that is when one grows stronger. My inspiration brewed from the industry being labelled as a male field of work, for I am a firm believer that anything that a man can do a woman can do better, I just wanted to change that narrative and I am living proof that it is possible and you can succeed at it too.”

What were some initial challenges you faced in the male-dominated industry, and how did you overcome them?

The main challenge is that I am a woman, and that women are not capable of being a part of the mining industry let alone thriving in it. Already that felt like I was set up for failure, but I never allowed that to change my plans. So I decided to beat them at their own field, I was involved in every operation, taught myself the scope of work and gradually started to understand what was required from me as an individual in order to better the company. I allowed myself to be a student whether it was sitting behind the desk and learning about mining or having mentors out in the field educating me in order to succeed, I allowed myself to be receptive and that is how I overcame them.

Building a network and finding mentors can be crucial for career growth. Have you had female mentors or role models in the mining industry? How have they influenced your career?

“I definitely have female role models/mentors, the first one being my mother who really wasn’t exposed to this industry in my upbringing however she ignited the entrepreneurial spirit within me that later got me the courage to start my own business. I then have role models with technical backgrounds in mining who have helped build my self-esteem, and made sure that I not only grow in this industry but I also get to add value to it. So that I would be able to pass the baton to the next woman who aspires to be in this industry.”

In your experience, what unique perspectives or skills do women bring to the mining industry that can positively impact the sector?

“Improved operational efficiency, better risk management, being attentive to detail and better communicating skills.”

What advice would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to enter or excel in the mining industry, especially in South Africa?

“I have this triple E rule(expose, excel, expand) in business which has helped shape the woman I am today and cemented me in this industry. Expose yourself to other people who are in the industry and are succeeding at it, because you will ultimately emulate who you’re surrounded by. Excel in the opportunities provided to you, people will notice and trust me success will come chasing after you. Lastly, strategize to expand your business or yourself in the industry, because there is plenty of room for growth for everyone one of us women. In conclusion do not be afraid to take up space there’s a lot of gaps we women are able to fill in the industry, we just need to stretch out to reach them.”

What do you believe needs to change within the mining industry, both at the company and societal levels, to create a more inclusive environment for women?

“There’s not much change required for we have come a long way. We come from a time where all services in the industry were granted to men only, so if there’s anything we need as women in mining right now , it would be support. Supporting women in getting more opportunities within the industry, and supporting small upcoming business owned by women.”

Funanani Glender Lekota, Founder of Corner Circle Consulting:

What motivated you to pursue a career in mining engineering?

“My professional journey into the field of engineering was largely motivated by a deep-seated fascination with mathematics and science, which I nurtured during my formative years. Engineering, as a discipline, consistently resonated with my academic interests and goals, and it emerged as a prominent field during my high school education. I ultimately elected to pursue a career in mining engineering due to my authentic passion for geology, earth sciences, and the intricate processes associated with the extraction of valuable minerals and resources from our planet's depths. ”

What were some initial challenges you faced in the male-dominated industry, and how did you overcome them?

"I faced immense challenges as a woman in the mining industry. People believed women couldn’t thrive here. I refused to succumb. Instead, I immersed myself in every aspect, learning and adapting. From understanding the operations to improving the company, I was determined. I became a perpetual student, learning at desks and from mentors in the field. I remained receptive, overcoming hurdles through sheer determination and knowledge." 

"In my journey, I encountered obstacles: ill-fitting gear, inadequate facilities, unwanted attention, and biased stereotypes. Some colleagues exhibited disrespectful attitudes. Despite not fully overcoming these challenges, I adapted to this hostile environment. Yet, awareness campaigns have made a difference. They've started breaking barriers and making the mining industry more inclusive for women like me."

Building a network and finding mentors can be crucial for career growth. Have you had female mentors or role models in the mining industry? How have they influenced your career?

“Having a role model or a source of inspiration has been instrumental in my career journey. I firmly believe in the value of surrounding oneself with individuals who have excelled in the same industry. This practice serves as a constant reminder of the possibilities and potential within our chosen field. One particular individual whose journey closely paralleled my own became a profound source of inspiration. Her experiences and achievements significantly influenced the trajectory of my career, broadening my perspective on the myriad opportunities available in the mining industry. This mentorship and sharing of experiences provided critical insights and guidance, enabling me to navigate the complexities of the mining industry with greater confidence and determination.”

In your experience, what unique perspectives or skills do women bring to the mining industry that can positively impact the sector?​

“Effective Communication and Collaboration Skills: Women typically demonstrate exceptional proficiency in communication and collaboration, important qualities of in an industry like mining that heavily relies on teamwork. Their capacity to nurture constructive working relationships proved to elevate both productivity and the overall synergy on mining projects.

Exemplary Attention to Detail: Precision plays a pivotal role in mining, where safety and efficiency are crucial. Women often exhibit a meticulous approach that can substantially contribute to enhanced quality control and the implementation of rigorous safety protocols. This precision underscores their strategic aptitude in approaching tasks.

Empathy and Community Engagement: Women frequently bring with them a pronounced sense of empathy and active engagement with local communities in their mining roles. This attribute assumes particular significance when addressing socio-environmental issues and fostering positive rapport with communities impacted by mining activities.”

What advice would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to enter or excel in the mining industry, especially in South Africa?

“Embrace professionalism by gaining technical skills. Get hands-on experience and learn the ins and outs of your field through hard work. Start your entrepreneurial journey with determination and a strong work ethic. Stay consistent, keep putting in effort until you see results. When you take on new business opportunities, be actively involved from the beginning of each project. This is where you build your knowledge and expertise. Success is a mix of technical expertise from experience and a good understanding of how business works. Craft your own path to success through hard work and expertise.”

What do you believe needs to change within the mining industry, both at the company and societal levels, to create a more inclusive environment for women?

​"I firmly believe there's a critical need for a change in how some men perceive women in the mining industry. There's a prevalent belief among certain male individuals that women are inherently less capable than men in this field. It's vital for men to adopt a more inclusive mindset, promoting a positive attitude towards women. We urgently need more women in the industry to address the existing gender imbalance. The mining culture heavily favors men, making it uncomfortable for women and reducing their presence. This lack of representation perpetuates harmful treatment and objectification of women. To break this cycle, the industry must actively educate men, raise awareness about women's challenges, and implement concrete measures to reform our cultural dynamics." 


​To conclude, the journey toward gender diversity and inclusivity in South Africa's mining sector is ongoing, but the industry is making strides in the right direction. With concerted efforts from government, businesses like the support from Sasol’s Enterprise and Supplier Development team, and advocacy groups, more women are breaking through the barriers and achieving success in the traditionally male-dominated world of mining. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to maintain momentum and create an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute to the growth and sustainability of South Africa's mining sector.







Social Media Links:
Keamogetswe Matsho, Founder of Lamont Trading and Supplies
Nqobile Valentia Veronica Mkhabela, Founder of Siyanqobangamandla Trading
Funanani Glender Lekota, Founder of Corner Circle Consulting