When Stimela Nxumalo joined Sembcorp Siza Water in 1999 he could not read, write or speak English. Today he is a fully qualified plumber and one of the best in Ballito.
“I used to work at the Waste Water Treatment Works as a general worker for KwaDukuza Municipality. Siza Water was very small at that time, and Ballito was hardly developed. We were a very small team,” said Stimela.
In 1999, the former Dolphin Coast Transitional Council was dealing with water loss and sewerage overflows. It was at this time that the council decided to create the first public private partnership in water services to solve the problem.
Siza Water was born and were given a 30-year contract to overhaul water services on the North Coast.
The company has since grown from 28 to 59 staff, with Nxumalo being one of the longest serving employees.
He was lucky enough to be chosen for training when Siza received the contract.
“When Siza Water took over, I was sent for plumbing training and was soon promoted to become a team leader. I have been working in this capacity since then.”
Through the Adult Basic Education and Training program, Stimela also learned to read and write.
“I love that there are many growth opportunities with Sembcorp Siza Water; you do not remain the same person,” he said.
Sembcorp Siza Water managing director Shyam Misra holds Nxumalo in high esteem.
“He is one of our most dedicated, loyal and hard working employees. We put the junior guys with him to learn and to come to grips with the skills they need for the job,” he said.
According to Misra, Nxumalo is a master of the Giga Jet, which is a machine used to clear pipe blockages.
“Whenever there is a blockage and the other guys cannot sort it out, we send out Stimela and he gets the job done,” said Misra.
Misra said that there are a number of staff currently in training and two other general workers received their plumbers license this year.
He believes Nxumalo has set a precedent for others to follow.
“He is an inspiration to all of us to take time and invest in ourselves. He is truly a great asset and we appreciate what he has done for Siza.”
