In the heart of Mpumalanga’s red-dust mining belt, beneath the surface of one of South Africa’s most demanding industries, Emily Masanabo is rewriting the narrative for women in mining. As an engineering planner, Emily holds a certification as an electrician and actively runs her community upliftment foundation, all while embracing the responsibilities of motherhood. Through her achievements, she proves that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields.
At the age of 38, Masanabo plays a vital role at Booysendal Mine’s South Concentrator, where she ensures the efficient scheduling and maintenance of essential infrastructure. Her journey from Mamelodi East to the frontlines of mining exemplifies her unwavering dedication to her profession. Her story is more than personal success; it serves as a powerful call to action for mining companies to address persistent gender inclusion challenges and foster genuine diversity.
Despite growing support for Women in Mining (WIM) corporate initiatives, the industry still faces significant barriers for women. Challenges such as ill-fitting protective equipment, pay disparities, limited career advancement, and unsafe working conditions that overlook female safety and dignity remain widespread. Masanabo is all too familiar with these struggles. She emphasises that professionalism, dedication, and demonstrated achievement are essential to earning respect in this environment. She advocates that women must continually showcase their skills and resilience to gain recognition.
A major obstacle many women technicians face is inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). For years, women have had to make do with PPE designed for men, leading to discomfort, chafing, slipping gloves, and restricted movement-posing safety risks and hindering performance. Masanabo stresses that proper PPE fit isn’t vanity-it’s a necessity. “Correct-fitting gear ensures better focus, safety, and confidence, empowering women to perform at their best.”
Sisi Safety Wear embodies this vision by developing innovative PPE tailored specifically for women. Their designs promote safer working conditions, restore dignity, and boost confidence. Properly fitted PPE enables improved mobility, heightened focus, and a stronger sense of professionalism. Transitioning from makeshift adjustments to equipment designed for women allows women to take on leadership roles and fully participate in their industries.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Masanabo gives back through her foundation, LadyEms Touch, uplifting young girls and vulnerable communities. Her future goals include earning her Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) and providing mining consulting services aimed at creating truly inclusive policies. “We don’t want recognition just because we are women,” she says. “Women professionals deserve to be recognised for their expertise. Show up, do the work, let your actions speak-and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Sometimes growth also means exploring new spaces that truly value your contributions.”
As we celebrate Women’s Month, Masanabo reminds us that recognition is more than celebration-it is a catalyst for societal change. We must ask ourselves: “Are we creating environments where women can thrive rather than just survive? Are we truly investing in their future or merely ticking compliance boxes?”
Emily Masanabo’s journey exemplifies that with the right tools, respect, and support, women can excel and transform industries. Her story not only inspires the next generation of female technicians but also challenges industry leaders to build more inclusive, innovative systems and equitable workplaces.
Our commitment must go beyond appreciation. It must be action oriented. That means investing in inclusive designs, leadership development, and safe work environments that empower every individual. Let us acknowledge and honour Emily and other trailblazing women who are transforming challenges into opportunities and breaking down barriers with resilience and purpose.
For more information, visit www.sisi.co.za
