Namibian Mining News The Professional Mining Journal
Related Articles
Women in Mining South Africa (WiMSA) has launched 2026 with a strong new theme: ‘Break the Ground, Own the Shift’, positioning women as central drivers of innovation, safety and inclusivity in South Africa’s mining sector.
The organisation also announced Mogaleadi Seabela as its new President, succeeding Raksha Naidoo, whose tenure focused on strengthening women’s representation and leadership across the industry. The 2026 theme encourages women in mining to take ownership of change, advance safer and more productive operations and actively shape the future of the sector with confidence.
Seabela brings extensive industry experience to the role. She is a Contractor Performance Management (CPM) Application Manager at Anglo American, a multi-award-winning mining engineer with an MSc in Mining Engineering and has worked across coal and iron ore operations in South Africa. Her accolades include being a Woman of Stature finalist for 2024 and recognition as one of the 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining (WIM100) in 2022.
In her first address as President, Seabela underscored the importance of the new theme, saying the future of mining cannot be realised without women stepping into active leadership roles. She emphasised the need for safer, more productive mines, the adoption of digital solutions and the creation of truly inclusive workplaces.
She added that the theme is about empowering women to own their careers, expertise and well-being, while collectively shaping the industry. She noted that women continue to lead the way in driving innovation, progressive leadership and meaningful change.
“This is a significant shift and mining’s future will be built on partnerships, innovation, mentorship and the readiness of women in the sector,” noted Seabela.
WiMSA has called on members and stakeholders to engage throughout the year using the hashtag #BreakTheGroundOwnTheShift, signalling a move from advocacy to action. The leadership transition comes as women in mining continue to face persistent challenges including underrepresentation in technical and operational roles, workplace bias and limited access to mentorship and career development opportunities. Despite this, growing numbers of female engineers, geologists and operators are breaking new ground, reinforcing the link between gender diversity, innovation and safer mining practices.
With Seabela at the helm, WiMSA aims to strengthen its advocacy while delivering practical industry impact, reinforcing the role of women leaders in shaping South Africa’s evolving mining landscape.
