Sky is the limit for dedicated women in the forestry industry
Hard work and dedication have led a number of women in the forestry industry to senior positions.
NGODWANA – When Ms Sibongile (Bongi) Gama joined Sappi Ngodwana Mill in 1995 as a process trainee, she never guessed where her career journey would take her.
Hard work and dedication have led to a senior position in Project GoCell. She has become a production superintendent on Fibre Line 3 at the start of this specialised cellulose upgrade.
“There are many ways in which Sappi has groomed me to be who I am today. They paid for my studies, provided team-leader development, offered succession planning and gave me ample opportunities to act in senior positions,” she added.
In her career at the mill, Gama had first progressed from trainee to outside operator after obtaining her N3 pulp and paper qualification. She was later appointed as process controller, and then promoted to shift superintendent after finishing her N6 national diploma in engineering.
She also obtained a national diploma in operations management through Unisa. Ultimately, it was her willingness to work hard from a young age, and to embrace every opportunity on her path, that secured her success.
Her involvement with the programme for technological careers (Protec) – of which Sappi is a key sponsor – played a major role in this. Gama credits the career exhibitions and site visits during her Protec years as part of her decision to pursue a technological career.
“Our exposure to different manufacturing processes and business functions helped us to understand the bigger picture.” Protec’s focus on leadership development and personal enrichment also shaped her sense of independence – a vital skill that helped her carve a career in a male-dominated environment.
“I’m really grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been given,” she says. “I am also humbled by the fact that today, I have a chance to help inspire and influence other women at the mill, and in the community.”
Gama is a member of the South African Council for Business Women (SACBW) and Businesswomen’s Association of South Africa. She was a national finalist (corporate) in SACBW’s Businesswoman of the Year competition in 2012. She is also actively involved in community charity work in the Mbombela area.
