Multotec’s pioneering women redefine industry standards

Credit: Engineering News & Mining Weekly

Amanda Jonker

Is the senior ceramist at Multotec’s wear linings division, specialising in ceramic lining manufacture and installation for wear protection, primarily serving the mining and power generation industries. Born in Bethal, Mpumalanga, Jonker’s passion for science and engineering was instilled by her father, who encouraged her to pursue a career in these fields from a young age, as she was fixing tractors with him and working on his lathe and many other engineering projects as a toddler.

She currently holds a Doctorate in Ceramic Technology, a testament to her dedication and expertise. She was honoured with the South African Association for the Advancement of Science (S2A3) bronze medal, awarded annually to the best Master’s Degree student at each South African university. Additionally, she became the first registered Refractory Engineering Technologist.

Jonker’s most significant accomplishment at Multotec includes optimising the alumina granulate distribution and ageing time for pipe wear inserts. With the assistance of her team, they identified the ideal granulate distribution and ageing time for the alumina granulate that are being used to cold isostatically press pipe wear inserts.

Navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry, Jonker believes that the unique perspectives women bring are crucial for fostering innovation and inclusivity. She encourages women leaders to celebrate their achievements, share their knowledge and support emerging leaders.

Looking ahead, Jonker aspires to continue her personal and professional development through lifelong learning, strong relationships and impactful projects. She remains committed to mentoring others and contributing significantly to her industry.

When she is not working, Jonker enjoys open water scuba diving, exploring the vibrant underwater world.

Kagiso Molefe

Is the product specialist in comminution at Multotec, specialising in mill liners within the rubber division. Hailing from Pankop, near Hammaskraal, Molefe holds a B-Tech Metallurgical Engineering degree with a Management Development Programme certificate.

Molefe was inspired to pursue a career in metallurgy after being fascinated by the process of essentially turning stones into finished products, such as precious metals and minerals. One of her notable accomplishments includes working closely with mining houses and process plants to identify bottlenecks and implement effective mill liner optimisation strategies, resulting in satisfied clients and enhanced plant performance.

Molefe’s philosophy in life is to "take yourself seriously because not everyone will and be intentional with your life-changing decisions". She encourages other women leaders in the South African business community to be intentional and firm with their decisions, while also prioritising rest and not hesitating to ask for help.

Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry has pushed her to work harder and stand her ground when she feels unheard. This experience has instilled discipline and a commitment to delivering quality work consistently.

She admits that she has faced challenges in her career, such as transitioning from a production-based role to a technical metallurgist role but she overcame these challenges by learning from experienced comminution specialists and allowing herself to grow in the technical space.

As a leader and team member, Molefe prioritises inclusivity, trust and being open, as she believes kindness goes a long way. She aspires to become a leader like one of her senior managers, who leads the team with fairness, technical guidance and trust.

Outside of work, Molefe is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle through hiking and going to the gym, which she sees as essential for mental health.