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 the trades by sharing the success stories of female apprentices.
Future fixer Rhulani. All pictures supplied by BluLever Education
Rhulani Sibisi is a young woman who is starting out in plumbing. Plumbing, she says, combines her interest in how things work with problem solving. Here is her story in her own words:
My journey into the plumbing field was quite a unique one. From a young age I was always fascinated by how things worked and enjoyed problem solving. During college, I explored different trades, and I was introduced to plumbing.
To be honest, initially I was hesitant to enter a male-dominated industry, worrying about acceptance and stereotypes, however, my passion for plumbing helped me push past those concerns.
In my apprenticeship, I’ve faced some challenges, like being underestimated or assumed to be less capable due to my gender and size – but I was always willing to prove them wrong and show them what I’m capable of and that dynamite comes in small packages. Throughout my journey, I’ve learned to embrace my uniqueness and perspective, develop a growth mindset and resilience and focus on building my skills. I’m proud to be a part of the plumbing industry, and I hope to inspire other women to consider this interesting career path.
When I first started my apprenticeship, I was excited to dive into the world of plumbing, but I quickly realised that I was entering a male-dominated industry, and that came with its own set of challenges. Some people assumed I wasn’t strong enough or capable enough to handle the physical demands of the job. Others thought I was only interested in the ‘clean’ or ‘office’ aspects of plumbing, like administration or sales. Sometimes I felt like I was being talked down to, like I wouldn’t understand technical concepts.
It was frustrating and isolating at times. I felt like I had to prove myself and work twice as hard to earn respect, but I was determined to succeed. I worked to build my skills and knowledge. Looking back, those challenges made me stronger and more confident.
During my EBL, I was working on a job with a team of experienced plumbers. We were tasked with installing a geyser in the ceiling. The supervisor, who had been doing this work for years assumed I wouldn’t know how to handle it and started explaining the process to me in a condescending tone. I felt like I had to prove myself, not just to him but to the rest of the team. So, I listened patiently, nodded, and then asked a few clarifying questions to show I understood. Then, I got to work using my knowledge to install the geyser.
The outcome was that we properly installed the geyser and the team was impressed. The supervisor even came up to me and said he was wrong about me and was very impressed. I approached the situation by staying calm and composed, listening actively and asking questions, focusing on the task at hand and showing my skills and knowledge through my work. The outcome was not only successful but I also earned the respect of my colleagues. It was a small win, but it felt huge.
The most rewarding aspect of working in the plumbing industry for me has been the opportunity to problem solve and make a tangible impact on people’s lives, especially for a female, just proving that women are just as capable as men in this industry. There’s satisfaction in knowing that my work provides essential services, like clean water and sanitation.
As a female artisan, I’ve seen my role contribute positively to the workplace environment in several ways such as diversity of perspective: I bring a unique viewpoint to the table, which has helped our team approach problems from different angles and breaking stereotypes. By excelling in a traditionally male-dominated field, I’ve helped challenge gender bias and stereotypes.
I’ve noticed a significant shift in attitudes and practices towards women in the industry since I began my apprenticeship. There’s a growing recognition of the value and contributions women bring to the trade. Positive changes I’ve noticed are increased support and mentorship. More companies are emerging to support and mentor women in trades, providing valuable resources and networking opportunities.
But I’ve noticed persistent stereotypes and biases. Some people still hold outdated views about women’s abilities in trades, which can affect hiring, promotion, and on-the-job treatment. There’s also lack of representation in certain trades like electrical and plumbing, with women still underrepresented which can make it harder for them to find support.
My advice to young women who want to enter plumbing or electrical but feel intimidated, is that your size, shape, or gender doesn’t define your ability to succeed in trades – so just empower yourself with knowledge, skills, and confidence. Take pride in being a woman in a male-dominated field because you’re breaking barriers. Always remember that empowerment comes from within. Believe in yourself, and you’ll be unstoppable. If you put the work in, it will out.
