Ubombo Sugar Limited earned notable recognition at the recent Gender in Energy Awards hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy. The Big Bend-based company secured 3rd place for Best Job Shadowing Host Organization and 4th place in the Overall Gender in Energy & STEM Category.
These awards reflect the company’s ongoing efforts to foster gender equality within the energy sector, particularly through its Job Shadow program, which provides young women with hands-on experience and valuable insights into energy-related careers, including engineering. The program empowers students, helping them build skills and confidence in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The company’s recognition as a Gender in Energy & STEM Champion is a testament to its inclusive workplace culture, where female employees are encouraged to thrive at all levels. Gcebile Dlamini, the Head of Human Resources at Ubombo Sugar, expressed gratitude for the award, stating, “We believe empowering women is essential for sustainable development and innovation. Women have faced barriers in these fields for too long, and it’s time to break them down.”
The ceremony, which honored 20 women for their contributions to the energy sector, was attended by notable figures, including Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, who represented the Minister of Natural Resources & Energy, Prince Lonkhokhela. Ubombo Sugar was represented by Electrical Engineer Abiola Bolaji, Human Resources Head Gcebile Dlamini, and Learning & Development Specialist Jabulani Hlatshwayo.
Abiola Bolaji, who received the award on behalf of Ubombo Sugar, shared her excitement about the recognition, noting her close involvement with the Ministry and government parastatals in policy development and energy standards. With a passion for electrical engineering that began in her childhood, Abiola’s journey has led her to work on key energy projects, which have strengthened her technical expertise.
Abiola, though not yet at the helm of an innovative energy project, has gained invaluable experience in large-scale energy projects. She has learned to develop strategic plans that deliver effective solutions, which she believes is crucial in navigating the fast-evolving energy landscape.
Speaking on the theme of the event, “Accelerating Action,” Abiola stressed the importance of both corporate and individual contributions to achieving gender balance in the energy sector. She emphasized the need for mentorship, particularly for young girls, to inspire them to pursue STEM careers and ultimately bridge the gender gap in the energy industry.
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