Research & Renewables Engineer, Project Coordinator, Sustainable Development Enthusiast, Board Member, and Public Speaker – These are some of the hats and talents of leading Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professional Nosipho Simelane- Dlamini. A passionate individual, Nosipho shares how she has paved her way to success through self-belief, graciously celebrating her achievements, and being her own cheerleader.
Q: Tell us about your early days and the subjects you gravitated towards in High School.
A: Mathematics and Science were always my favourite subjects at school. I decided early on that I wanted to be an engineer, although I didn’t know which type of engineer I wanted to be. I had a fascination for the built environment and would ask myself how different structures are built and how engineering principles are applied to creating a complete structure.
After High School, Electrical Engineering found me. I got selected for the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) Traineeship Program. Through this program, I got practical training in electrical engineering and proceeded to study for an electrical engineering degree. After that, I led a distribution depot at EEC, then transitioned to do my Masters in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in Renewables. This is how I became a Renewables Engineer, the position I currently hold.
Q: What are some of the difficulties you have faced in your career journey?
A: Being one of the first few females in leadership in a male-dominated field meant I had few female role models to relate to and gain support from. I constantly felt I had to prove myself and at times suffered from imposter syndrome; often doubting the validity of my accomplishments and successes. Later, without knowing it, this challenge would strengthen me and make me look within for motivation. I realized that there is no flaw in being your role model and celebrating your achievements. As a result, I let go of the need to constantly prove myself. I gained confidence in my skills, and the standard of my delivery and allowed myself to focus on being a good engineer and leader.
Q: The world is moving more towards green and sustainable ways of consuming energy. How will a green future assist in empowering women at different levels of society?
A: For me the Green Economy or the Green Future forms one of the core pillars of sustainable development. Sustainability has a strong emphasis on the social aspects of diversity and inclusion. The renewable energy sector has opened the door for new streams of business opportunities for women to take advantage of. Women can now become Independent Power Producers or sell and service renewable energy equipment for example.
The industry is open and encourages participation from women. Additionally, renewable energy can improve the lives of women in rural communities where there was previously no clean water or sustainable fuel for cooking. Electrifying their communities and taking away the need to walk miles for water or breathe in unhealthy fumes makes all the difference. The possibilities are endless with renewables and women are certainly one of the groups to benefit.
Q: What do individuals and businesses need to know about the importance of efficient energy consumption?
A: It is important to understand why we need to be energy efficient. Firstly, electricity generation infrastructure is expensive. Secondly, we need to conserve our natural resources and reduce pollution to enable sustainable development. In business and the home, being energy efficient provides some of the quickest and most cost-effective options for optimizing energy usage whilst lowering your bill, and your carbon footprint and aiding energy transition.