Modern Mining August 2025

WOMEN IN MINING

Ayanda Khumalo’s flourishing career in the mining industry When Ayanda Khumalo was unable to gain admission to her preferred electrical engineering programme at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), she didn’t realise it would be a blessing in disguise. Today, she is a successful environmental officer at Canyon Coal’s Gugulethu Colliery.

Ayanda Khumalo is an environmental officer at Canyon Coal’s Gugulethu Colliery.

K humalo enrolled for a BSc in Environmental and Earth in this field. One in which I could actively advocate for the environment, even within profit-driven sectors,” she says. Raised by a single mother, Khumalo’s upbringing was far from perfect as she encountered various challenges. “Although the circumstances were far from ideal, I believe they ultimately fostered my growth, and I am grateful for the lessons learned,” she says. Her background motivated her to excel academically. After completing her BSc, Khumalo did her Honours degree in environmental science and later completed her MSc in geography at UKZN. Throughout her career in the mining industry, Khumalo has noticed significant disparities between the opportunities available to women and those afforded to their male counterparts. As a result, she often feels the need to work twice as hard to be recognised and acknowledged. “Gaining recognition was not easy. I had to consistently go above and beyond in every task assigned to me,” she explains. Her efforts have undoubtedly paid off, as she now independently leads Gugulethu’s environmental department, operating with minimal oversight. Her responsibilities include, implementing environmental management systems, taking well-informed environmental decisions, and ensuring that operational and regulatory obligations are met. “This experience has greatly enhanced my management and leadership capabilities, effectively preparing me for future managerial roles.” Khumalo firmly believes that although the mining industry Science. Despite it not being her first choice, she found the curriculum compelling. “When I later secured an internship in environmental management, I recognised that I belonged

has traditionally been male-dominated, it is not exclusive to men. She was particularly inspired when a female environmental manager personally introduced her to the industry. “It showed me that leadership roles for women in this field are not only possible but achievable.” She notes that the mining industry has made significant progress in promoting the inclusion of women in its operations. Initiatives like Women in Mining (WIM) have been crucial in influencing decision-making processes and advocating for gender diversity. Additionally, policies have been put in place to protect the rights of women in mining, along with procedures aimed at safeguarding them from all forms of gender-based violence in the workplace. She highlights that ongoing research continues to identify the challenges women face in the mining industry, aiming to implement practical solutions that allow them to work effectively and safely. Progressive facilities, such as lactation rooms and onsite daycare centres, have been established in various mines to support women in resuming their careers after childbirth. “While these and other measures represent significant progress toward gender inclusivity in the mining sector, continued efforts are necessary to ensure a truly equitable and supportive working environment for everyone.” Khumalo encourages management in mining operations to keep creating opportunities for women to showcase their capabilities. She emphasises the importance of companies investing in the development and empowerment of women, particularly where there are skills gaps. Her advice to women aspiring to pursue a career in the mining industry is, “Your dreams are valid, but achieving them requires hard work, determination, and focus.”

24  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | AUGUST 2026