Nthabiseng Mabizela

Position and company name: Director of EHS and Quality at Joy Global (Africa) (Pty) Ltd t/a Komatsu Mining Technologies.

Main activity of company: Design, manufacture and service mining machinery.

Date and place of birth: 8 May 1974, in Soweto.

Education: National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, Six Sigma Black belt, NEBOSH International Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management; Program in Total Quality Management and Executive Leadership Development Program.

Management style: My leadership style is transformational as I always strive to motivate and empower those around me.

Personal best achievement: Between 2010 to 2018, I occupied a key role of SHEQ Business Partner at Eskom Rotek Industries (Turbo Generator Services) where I managed to achieve the best safety performance for turbo generator services.

Person you would most like to meet: Indira Nooyi, the former chairperson and CEO of PepsiCo and Adrian Gore, the founder and Group CEO of Discovery Group.

Philosophy of life: As a leader I am tough on myself and raise my expectation for everyone; however, I am caring because I want people to excel in what they are doing so that they can inspire others.

Message for other women leaders in the South African business community: My advice to the other women is to know your journey and your story – strive for it and do not allow anyone to change your dream. Remember to always keep the network that built you while ensuring that you also create for the coming generation. Always respect yourself and others – this sets the tone for how everyone should respect you.

Deshnee Theunissen

Position and company name: Director of Finance - Joy Global (Africa) (Pty) Ltd t/a Komatsu Mining Technologies.

Main activity of company: Manufacturing and repair of underground mining machinery and related aftermarket services.

Date and place of birth: 4 October 1980, in Boksburg.

Education: Bachelor of Accounting Science (UNISA); Honours Bachelor of Accounting Science (UNISA); Advanced Certificate in Auditing; Chartered Accountant (SA); Executive Leadership Development Program (GIBS)

Management style: I would describe myself as a situational leader, however I tend to naturally gravitate towards a servant leadership style.

Personal best achievement: Being promoted from Financial Manager to Deputy Finance Director and then to Finance Director in just under a year and a half.

Person you would most like to meet: Cleopatra – I am inspired by the power and influence she had over Egypt and the world, all those centuries ago.

Philosophy of life: Treat people how you want to be treated. Always with respect!

Message for other women leaders in the South African business community: Embrace the woman that you have become and never be afraid to be your authentic self. Surround yourself with people who value and appreciate your unique traits and the diversity you bring to the table.

12 Commercial Road, Wadeville, Germiston
Tel. +27 11 872 4000