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practically that the dots start to come together! Working at the lab came with a lot of “aha” moments, confirming what I had learned in school. It allowed me to become familiar with every product in the company and every process it undergoes because they all ended up at the lab for final testing. During my time at the company, I learned teamwork, the importance of research, and going the extra mile in everything I do. The importance of time, when working in a 24/7 production environment time, is critical, certain things must be done faster so it doesn’t halt any process. The most important lesson I learned was listening; listening to those who had been at the company before me and watching how they worked. The knowledge they imparted to me was great and I carry some of it with me to this day.
and a better understanding of the use of stainless steel. Sassda is also involved with government entities in promoting and growing local businesses through funding and other means available.
What do you consider the most exciting innovations/developments in stainless steel ?
The accidental invention of stainless steel in 1912 will always remain the most exciting for me and even more so, because stainless steel remains one of the most sustainable materials. The other interesting development was the invention of 3CR12 stainless steel in South Africa, a metal designed to bridge the gap between expensive stainless steel and mild steel. The development of 3CR12 has proven to be significant as it can be used in a wide range of applications. The future of stainless steel is promising; developments such as 3D printing, sustainable practices, and automation are leading the way. These innovations will undoubtedly revolutionise industries that rely on this durable material for their products and projects.
How did you come to work at Sassda and what will your role be at the association?
I heard of an opportunity, and I submitted my CV. As they say, the rest is history. My position at Sassda is focused on market intelligence and lobbying. In a nutshell, my role is to promote local stainless steel sector with the ultimate aim of growing the sector. I am also involved in ensuring that our members are well taken care of and benefit greatly from our association and get involved with government institutions in increasing awareness and use of stainless steel.
What is your life philosophy or a sentence that sums up your approach to life and work?
Wherever life plants you, sow good seeds and bloom with grace.
What do you feel are the biggest obstacles currently facing the local stainless steel sector?
What is one of the most important lessons you have learnt in life and who or which situation did this stem from? Life happens and just like that things can take a turn for the worst. You must get up each day and show up regardless. Realistically, some days will be worse than others but giving up is never an option. This philosophy stems from the financial and job loss I experienced because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The impact of COVID-19 was massive and the stainless steel industry is still recovering from its effects. Loadshedding is another factor that is proving to be a hindrance to the local growth of the stainless steel industry. In addition, Europe with its import caps and high tariffs which ultimately affect imports is also having a significant effect.
Why does Sassda have such an important part to play in assisting the local industry overcome the challenges it faces and for it to grow and prosper?
What are your personal and professional goals for the next year?
Professionally, to start my MBA journey. I am already involved with a few projects at Sassda, and I would love to see myself heading some of those projects. I would also love to see myself giving out training on some of the courses we offer. I am happy with myself and how I am handling the challenges of my new role and can only anticipate getting even better at it. I just want to live a more harmonious life; a slow, content, peaceful kind of life. I am truly not rushing anywhere just taking each day as it comes, recreating my work-life balance and learning good habits.
Sassda is one of the most active stainless steel industry associations in the world and has been involved in increasing the awareness and use of stainless steel in Southern Africa since 1964. The association identifies training, mentorship, and capacity building as core interventions, thereby assisting the local industry to overcome the challenges it faces to allow for growth. For example, our technical enquiry support service ensures that members are assisted and the technical problems they encounter are solved or minimised. This helps to improve their ongoing profit margin and quality standards. Training is offered to impart more knowledge
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Issue 2 – 2023
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