Nonjabulo Sokhela
Achievements Received the 2023 South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) Engineer of the Year award Successfully executed detailed engineering design and supported the construction and commissioning of one of the world’s largest copper concentrators – Kamoa Copper Mine Project (Democratic Republic of the Congo) Contributed to the design of a hybrid energy system that supports sustainability goals in mining operations – Henkries Renewable Energy Project. Currently leading the EC&I scope for load expansion at Khoemacau Copper Mine – Boseto and Zone 5 in Botswana Mentors Several mentors and role models have profoundly influenced my journey, each playing a unique role in shaping my path and guiding me through different stages of my career and personal development. At the heart of it all, my parents have been my primary source of inspiration and support, instilling in me the values of hard work, humility and resilience from an early age. My wife has been a constant pillar of strength, intellectually and emotionally. Her achievements in engineering and academia motivate me daily, and her belief in my potential has helped me pursue my ambitions with confidence. My son reminds me of the legacy I want to leave behind – a future built on knowledge, compassion and purpose. Professionally, I have been fortunate to be mentored by individuals who have left a lasting impact: Hercu Smit, EC&I Director, has been instrumental in shaping my professional approach to engineering leadership. His technical expertise, strategic thinking and calm leadership in complex environments have set a benchmark for excellence in project execution and people management. Dr Ali Hasan has significantly influenced my academic and research journey, particularly in the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in renewable energy systems. His passion for innovation and intelligent system design has deepened my own interest in applying smart technologies to Africa’s energy challenges. Prof Thokozani Shongwe has guided me through my postgraduate research and professional development. His insight into AI, ML and strategic engineering applications, as well as his ability to align technical research with socio-economic impact, has broadened my perspective on the role of engineering in shaping sustainable development.
“PROFITS ARE TO BUSINESS WHAT BREATHING IS TO LIFE. BREATHING IS ESSENTIAL TO LIFE, BUT NOT THE PURPOSE OF LIVING. SIMILARLY, PROFITS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THE EXISTENCE OF THE CORPORATION, BUT THEY ARE NOT THE REASON FOR ITS EXISTENCE.” – DENNIS BAKKE
Profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonjabulo-sokhela- 812bb210b/ Nonjabulo Sokhela leads South Africa’s energy transformation with vision, integrity and inclusive intent. As chief executive of Nepoworx Renewable Energy Institution, she drives strategy, operations and business development for a purpose-driven organisation. Her foundation in logistics and supply-chain management, coupled with an MSc in global energy and climate policy from SOAS, University of London, equips her to bridge technical expertise and social impact. At Nepoworx, she champions training and capacity building for youth and marginalised communities, aligning green economy goals with community needs. Nonjabulo, 30, serves on the National Business Initiative’s Just Energy Transition Working Group, SAPVIA’s Solar PV Committee, and G20 platforms such as Startup20 and Y20 – where she advocates for clean energy, youth inclusion and policy reform. As an SDG7 Youth Ambassador, she amplifies voices often left out of the global climate agenda. Rooted in KwaDabeka, KwaZulu-Natal, and inspired by her family’s unwavering belief in her potential, she leads with empathy and resolve. Qualifications Logistics Management, University of Johannesburg
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