Keletso Mabula: Pioneering change and inspiring future leaders in the mining industry

Keletso Mabula is a dedicated Sales Engineer for Belt Cleaners at MATO Products, a member of the Multotec Group, where she has made significant strides in the mining industry. She was born on May 10, 1996, in Phalaborwa, Limpopo, a town with deep mining roots. Growing up in Phalaborwa, where large-scale copper and phosphate mining dominates, she developed a keen interest in metallurgy that influenced both her education and career choices.

She completed her matric at Hoërskool Frans du Toit before pursuing a National Diploma in Metallurgical Engineering at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT). Her educational background, paired with her upbringing in a mining-centric town, equipped her with unique insights into the industry from a young age. This early exposure not only fuelled her passion for mineral processing but also laid the foundation for her future success in the field.

Her journey with Multotec began in 2019 as a Metallurgical Engineering in-service trainee, and she has since held roles including Technician in Training, Test Rig Supervisor, and Junior Process Engineer. Keletso is also a member of the Industrial Advisory Board at VUT, where she provides guidance and insights to support the next generation of engineers.

In her current role at MATO Products, Keletso is responsible for building and maintaining client relationships, conducting site assessments to evaluate conveyor belt performance, and providing technical recommendations for cleaning solutions. Her work focuses on improving conveyor efficiency while addressing critical challenges like spillage and carryback. Keletso's ability to deliver results while meeting sales targets has positioned her as a valuable asset within the company.

One of her notable achievements includes her involvement in the development of Multotec Commodity Flowsheets. These flowsheets visually illustrate how Multotec equipment can be integrated based on specific commodity and its mineralogy. This accomplishment not only highlights her technical expertise but also demonstrates her ability to collaborate with product specialists to deliver tailored solutions for clients.

As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Keletso has encountered her share of challenges, such as having to prove herself in competitive environments. However, her resilience, determination, and continuous commitment to learning helped her overcome these obstacles. Seeking mentorship from seasoned professionals has also played a crucial role in her growth, allowing her to further develop her skills and confidence, and ultimately earning her the respect of her peers and clients alike.

Keletso’s experiences as a woman in mining have given her a unique perspective on the importance of diversity and inclusion within the industry. She advocates for a more inclusive work environment and actively supports other women in the field, contributing to a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Outside of work, Keletso is passionate about hockey and hiking. Hockey keeps her physically active and sharpens her teamwork skills, while hiking allows her to unwind and reconnect with nature. She also enjoys traveling, which broadens her perspective and fuels her curiosity about the world.

Looking toward the future, Keletso aims to become a leading expert in her field in the mining industry, with a focus on sustainable and efficient practices. She plans to continue expanding her technical knowledge while honing her sales skills and building strong, lasting client relationships. Guided by her personal philosophy, "Arrive unknown, leave unforgettable", Keletso is committed to making meaningful contributions to the industry and to those around her.

Through her dedication, resilience, and vision, Keletso Mabula exemplifies what it means to be a future leader in the mining sector.

Credit: Mining Review Africa, Mining Elites in Africa under 35.
https://www.miningreview.com/magazine-article/future-leader-profile-keletso-mabulo/