This Women’s Month, we introduce four women at Talbot helping industrial clients activate the transition to sustainable water, each with a unique voice, purpose and passion for impact.

Liane Henman  

As Contracts Liaison Manager at Talbot Laboratories, Henman ensures environmental samples flow smoothly through one of Africa’s leading ISO-accredited laboratories. Born in Pietermaritzburg, she holds a National Diploma in Microbiology and leads with a task-oriented, people-first approach.
“I motivate my team to exceed expectations because our clients deserve the best experience Talbot can offer.”
Balancing work and motherhood is her proudest achievement. “I’ve learned to crush the week and squeeze joy (and laundry) from every weekend.”
Her mantra: “It’s not what you do that makes a difference, but how you do it.” To women in the sector, she says: “Whether you’re in the lab, the field, or in the office, keep going. You’re part of a growing force of women reshaping the future.”

Boitumelo Pako Matshediso

As Business Unit Lead for TalbotAnalytics, Matshediso is at the forefront of advancing smart water intelligence for industrial clients at Talbot. Born in Carletonville, she’s a qualified Chemical Engineer and data scientist currently completing her MSc.
“I believe in aligning passion with purpose. Data isn’t just numbers; it’s a tool for transformation.”
One of her proudest achievements is leading the TalbotAnalytics team, which is enabling the shift toward data-driven sustainability across the water sector. “We’re helping industries turn complex water data into actionable insights that reduces risk, enhances efficiency and supports long-term resilience.”
Her call to action for women: “Don’t wait for permission to lead. You belong at the table. Claim your seat and use your voice to create the change we need.”

Loren Leigh Steyn

Talbot process engineer Steyn was born in Port Elizabeth and holds a BEng in Chemical Engineering from Stellenbosch University. Steyn supports clients with water strategy, risk assessments, and the optimisation of water and wastewater treatment systems. Her work blends on-site assessments with strategic planning to improve efficiency, reduce risk and help industries achieve long-term water sustainability.
“What drives me is seeing practical solutions come to life, ones that are efficient and ethical.”
She’s inspired by Aldous Huxley and Stoic philosophy, especially the quote: “If you live in harmony with nature, you will never be poor.” 
Her message to women in the sector: “Bring your perspective with confidence. Even small shifts can create lasting change.”

Nonhlanhla Pearl Simelane

Born in Pongola, Simelane holds a BSc in Biomedicine and recently completed her N3 in Water and Wastewater Treatment.
Simelane’s journey at Talbot reflects meaningful growth and reinvention. Starting as an assistant process controller, she progressed to her current role as site supervisor in Bergville, where she oversees operations and water treatment processes to ensure seamless operation. It is a path she describes as deeply rewarding.
“Getting into this industry was a big shift. I’ve grown both technically and personally. I'm building systems that make life safer and communities stronger.”
If she could meet anyone, it would be her younger self. “I’d tell her, hard work opens endless doors. Just believe in yourself.”

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