Country of origin

South Africa

Which company do you work for?

Gubhani Exploration

What is your specific area of specialisation?

Our company does surface exploration drilling for the mining industry

How long have you been in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math’s (STEM) fields?

13 Years

As a woman in a male dominated industry, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?

Often it was my own preconceived ideas that I am not good enough or smart enough, that were my challenge; but I realise that overcoming a self-limiting mindset was my biggest challenge whether i was dealing with males or females. I have had to prove to myself and others that I am good enough to work in this industry and all you need is the knowledge and skill to do what you need to do and that sets you up for success, always.

What inspired you to join this industry?

My husband inspired me, he is the geologist in the family, and he exposed me to the mining industry as well as drilling as a lucrative business.

What changes, if any, have you seen in your field with regards to women in your field?

Women are getting more opportunities and they are grabbing them and making a success of their careers and businesses in their fields or expertise. They are also starting to demand more respect but do it by just demonstrating their abilities: talking less and doing more!

How can we attract more women to consider a career in the STEM fields?

We need to show the success stories. we need to also give information and make women aware of the opportunities that are in STEM. Exposure, information, and knowledge sharing as well as support are all key in attracting and retaining women in STEM fields.

If you were to advise other young women starting their careers in the tech or within the STEM fields, what is the one thing you would say to them?

Expect it to be a journey or process that is not going to be easy! Be willing to ask many questions, show initiative and don’t be afraid to say you don’t know, in that way you have the opportunity to discover and learn. But also, be solutions minded, bring the problem solver attitude and that will set you apart.

When not working, what do you do for fun?

I dance! I love ballet, it’s my de-stressor and my creative side all at once. And I love colouring in pictures (Art).

Social media handles

LinkedIn: Lindiwe Nakedi