Edited by Tanya Olckers Submitted by BluLever Education
Plumbing Africa thanks BluLever Education for providing coverage of their ongoing Women on Tools Campaign, which aims to change the narrative about women in trades by sharing the success stories of their female apprentices. This month, Khulekani Masilela talks about her experiences.
Image supplied by BluLever Education
My journey into plumbing was mostly inspired by my curiosity to gain more knowledge and learn more about the plumbing industry. As I continued to learn more, I was inspired to be part of the women that change the narrative about the industry – that only men are cable of getting the job done, and that women aren’t strong enough to be part of the industry.
When I began my apprenticeship, there seemed to be an attitude that I was not strong enough to be part of the trade industry because of my weight. The belief was that I wouldn’t even survive a month because of the hard labour and the emotional blackmailing I could potentially get from my colleagues. At first, the experience made me question whether I want to continue or not. However, I remembered my “why” and that was more than enough to keep me going because I have an appointment with the future.
During my first EBL at a Sandton site, I had to prove to my supervisor that I can do hard labour. I had to dig a trench that was more than 2 metres deep using a pick, and not only that, but we also had to work overtime for an entire month. I had to remember my “why” again and not only did I have to prove to my supervisor I could do it, but I had to prove to myself that I can actually do this. The outcome was positive, and my supervisor was impressed because he thought that we wouldn’t last a week. Somehow my peers and I lasted right up to the end.
The most rewarding aspect of working in this industry was getting a chance to challenge myself physically, emotionally, mentally and professionally. Working with different people can be difficult if you are a female professional in a male-dominated industry. I can say my positive contribution to my workplace is being part of the company as a female apprentice and teaching them about what I have learnt at campus regarding soft skills. So far, they have adapted to the culture of soft skills and I can say our communication within our workplace has improved.
I haven’t noticed any shift in attitude or practice towards women in the industry. We still need to prove to the world, or rather the men in the industry, that we can do more than we are expected to do as women. As a country, and globally, we still have a long way to go for women to be fully accepted and treated with the same respect as men in this industry.
What we can address is that it is time for people to accept that the world is evolving and changing, and that change is a good thing. It shows that people are more open-minded. And that we do not only preach diversity and inclusion; we practice what we preach.
My advice to women is to be open-minded and willing to learn more from others, and yourself as an individual. Keep in mind that you have an appointment with the future. Discipline, consistency and willingness will make it possible for you to achieve your goals. Also don’t forget to pray about everything you do.
