By Inside Biz & Standard Bank Eswatini
Ntombifuthi Ndlangamandla Dlamini says that she didn’t know there was a profession called ‘Geology’ while growing up, which is why she would love to provide early exposure to Geosciences in schools, which will aid in piquing interest among young girls.
Briefly tell us about yourself, and the work you do, as an engineering geologist.
I was born and raised in Mankayane, surrounded by love from my parents and siblings. I’ve been happily married for 18 years and have 2 kids. These personal connections have shaped my values and they drive me to make a positive impact in both my personal and professional life.
I hold an MSc (Geology), a BSc (Hons) in Geology, and a BSc Degree (Chemistry & Biology). I own and run Geo Solutions, a consultancy company with expertise in geology, geotechnical investigations, and environmental management services, where I work as a Professional Engineering Geologist. As an Engineering Geologist, I specialize in assessing geological factors that can affect construction projects, such as soil characteristics, slope stability, rock formations, and groundwater conditions. By analyzing these risks, I help engineers design projects that are safe, cost-effective, and sustainable.
How did you get into this career path? Did you always want to be a geologist whilst growing up?
I did not always want to be a Geologist whilst growing up. I didn’t even know there was a profession called ‘Geology’. My original academic background was Biology and Chemistry, and it was only after working in the government’s Geological Survey and Mines Department that I discovered my interest in Geology. This experience led me to pursue further studies in Geology and ultimately transition into a career in the field.
Women have been a part of the story of geology from the beginning of time, but they have often struggled to gain professional opportunities, equal pay, and respect as geoscientists. What do you think needs to be done to address this anomaly, particularly, in the local context? How can Geology become an attractive career option for young women?
Promoting equality and inclusivity in geosciences and making it more enticing for young women in Eswatini can be achieved through:
- Providing early exposure to geosciences in schools to pique interest among young girls. Educational campaigns about Geology, its importance, and the potential career opportunities for women can help break stereotypes.
- Establishing mentorship programs where experienced female geoscientists guide and support aspiring young women. Seeing successful women in the field can inspire others to pursue similar paths.
- Ensuring equal access to educational and professional opportunities for both genders. Encouraging recruitment and retention of female Geologists in academic and industry roles can help balance the representation.
What does the International Women’s Month theme, “Invest In Women: Accelerate Progress” mean to you?
This theme highlights the importance of empowering and supporting women to drive positive change and progress in various aspects of society. To me, it signifies the recognition of the immense potential and contributions that women can make when given equal opportunities, resources, and support.
Investing in women involves providing them with the necessary tools, education, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive in their chosen fields. This can unlock their full potential, foster their leadership abilities, and enable them to make significant contributions to their communities and the world at large.
Accelerating progress through investing in women also means addressing systemic barriers and inequalities that have hindered women’s advancement and empowerment. It involves promoting gender equality, advocating for women’s rights, and creating a supportive environment that values and respects women’s voices, perspectives, and achievements.
NB: This article was first published in the Blue Sheroes Women’s Month Supplement (March 2024), a publication that was compiled by Inside Biz in partnership with Standard Bank Eswatini.