Sassda recently posted a series of in-depth interviews with the female leaders shaping our industry on our social media channels.
A journey inspired by curiosity
SAIW Practical Training Manager Confidence Lekoane is breaking barriers in welding and metallurgy, inspiring change, empowering women and championing diversity in a male-dominated industry…
Confidence’s passion for metallurgy was sparked by a mesmerising image of molten metal being poured - a moment that ignited her curiosity about the field. This fascination grew into a fulfilling career, as she sought to deepen her understanding of metallurgy and excel in the challenges it presented. “That image really attracted me to find out more about what metallurgy is all about,” she reflects.
Lifelong learning and growth
A firm believer in continuous learning, Confidence actively pursues courses and workshops to stay updated on the latest industry advancements, from cutting-edge technologies to evolving materials and methodologies. “I’ve attended a lot of courses that align with my career,” she notes, underscoring the importance of staying current in a fast-paced industry.
Networking has also been crucial in her development. By attending conferences, webinars, and industry events, she has built connections that foster knowledge-sharing and professional growth.
Championing diversity and inclusion
Confidence has been a driving force for inclusivity in welding, advocating for women in a traditionally male dominated field. At the SAIW, she has worked to develop policies that encourage more women to join the industry. “When I started, I was often the only woman in a training course. Now, I see an average of three to five females per course, which is a significant improvement.”
While progress has been made, challenges persist. Gender bias remains an issue, with some clients hesitant to trust her expertise. Yet, through perseverance and a proven track record, she has earned their respect. “The biggest challenge is being heard and being taken seriously,” she admits. But with confidence and expertise, these barriers are surmountable.
Balancing professional and personal life
As a mother, wife, and professional, Confidence balances a demanding career with family responsibilities. “The welding field often requires long hours to meet project deadlines, and balancing that with family life can be challenging,” she explains. With determination and support from mentors, she has honed leadership skills that help her manage these competing demands.
Mentorship and leadership
Mentors have played a vital role in Confidence’s career, shaping her leadership style and encouraging her to push beyond her comfort sone. These lessons in effective communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making have inspired her to mentor others, especially women entering the field.
“Anything a man can do; we can also do. Nothing is beyond us,” she affirms, encouraging women to seize opportunities and excel in leadership roles.
A vision for the future
Confidence envisions a more inclusive future for the welding industry, with greater opportunities for women. She continues to advocate for diversity and encourages women to step into leadership roles. “It’s a tough industry, but women are capable of multitasking and excelling. Don’t give up - get involved and make your mark.” In a male-dominated industry, Confidence Lekoane inspires others to challenge norms, break barriers, and pursue their ambitions with determination.