MINING
BEING THE FIRST IS A CALL TO ADVANCE OTHERS Dr Nombasa Tsengwa, Exxaro Resources Dr Nombasa Tsengwa’s journey to becoming the first female CEO of Exxaro Resources is truly inspirational and offers valuable insights into the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. While her background is in environmental management, Dr Tsengwa has made a positive impact since joining the South African mining giant. “The burden of all other women looking up to you as you advance, knowing that being first is challenging but crucial for others who follow.” Dr Tsengwa’s leadership provides a blueprint for effective DEI efforts and emphasises the values and strategic alignment required for meaningful outcomes. Her approach underscores that true success in DEI is achieved when diverse staff members thrive in their roles, contributing to a culture where the benefits of diversity are evident in both individual achievements and organisational success. “We have achieved our employment equity targets over the past five years. Although we have shown positive progress in achieving our annual targets, there are key challenges in the representation of women at senior management level and persons with disabilities across the organisation. We aspire to measure our transformation profile against national economically active population statistics.” Dr Tsengwa’s achievements are even more profound given her rural background as a Black woman born during the apartheid era in the Eastern Cape. Recognising and celebrating this intersectionality is crucial in understanding the challenges she faced and the broader impact of her success in breaking down societal barriers. Her 20 years of executive management and board experience emphasise the importance of qualifications and competence in leadership roles. This counters the argument that diversity initiatives compromise meritocracy and debunks the narrative and misconception that promoting diversity equates to lowering standards. She acknowledges the additional hurdles she had to overcome as a female CEO, emphasising the burden of being the first and the responsibility that comes with paving the way for others. This perspective sheds light on the unique challenges faced by women in leadership roles and the importance of mentorship and support systems. Dr Tsengwa’s proactive approach to understanding the mining industry by going underground in the mines demonstrates her commitment to breaking gender stereotypes and gaining first-hand experience. This is a powerful example of her dedication and being an example for others, contributing to her credibility as a leader in a male-dominated field. People tend to look up to leaders and emulate them, especially when such leaders are perceived to
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DEI in the Global South | Edition 1
