Sassda recently posted a series of in-depth interviews with the female leaders shaping our industry on our social media channels.
Breaking Barriers: Nocwaka Ntshangase’s Journey to Senior Sales Leadership
Nocwaka (Nocs) Ntshangase, Local Sales Manager at Columbus Stainless, is a trailblazer whose career bridges metallurgy and technical sales. Starting as a metallurgist, she transitioned to sales, discovering that this field required deep technical expertise, Embracing the challenge, Nocwaka excelled, rising to oversee operations across Southern Africa.
A commitment to lifelong learning
Recognising the competitive nature of her industry, Nocwaka took the initiative to upskill beyond her diploma. She enrolled in a training program to gain essential technical knowledge and pursued management development programs to refine her leadership capabilities. Her proactive approach highlighted her belief that success requires both technical expertise and people management skills.
Overcoming challenges
As a black woman in a predominantly male, Afrikaans speaking industry, Nocwaka faced cultural and gender related barriers. These challenges often left her feeling isolated but also fuelled her determination. She focused on building relationships and proving her value in an environment that wasn’t always welcoming to women. “I’ve always known that no one is going to hand me success. I had to work harder, prove myself more, and position myself to be ready for any opportunity,” she reflects.
Advocating for equity
Nocwaka takes pride in the growing number of women in leadership at Columbus Stainless, a testament to hard work and merit. While acknowledging the importance of employment equity initiatives, she envisions a future where individuals are recognised solely for their contributions. Mentorship has been instrumental in her journey, particularly from former Columbus CEO Dave Martin, who guided her through professional challenges and personal growth. His mentorship helped shape her leadership style, which balances resilience with empathy.
Balancing career and family
As a mother, Nocwaka is committed to excelling in her career while being an engaged parent. She ensures her children see her not just as a provider but as a present and supportive figure in their lives. This balance inspires her to strive for excellence in all areas, setting an example for her daughter and future generations.
Inspiring the next generation
Throughout her career, Nocwaka has broken barriers and created opportunities for others. She remains optimistic about the increasing number of women excelling in her industry and believes that hard work and perseverance can overcome systemic obstacles.
“Being a Black woman in a male-dominated industry comes with its challenges, but it also brings a sense of pride in breaking barriers and creating a path for those who follow,” she says.
Nocwaka’s journey is one of resilience, empowerment, and a commitment to fostering equity in her industry. As she leads and mentors others, she continues to advocate for a workplace where contributions, not background, define success.