Our Gender Mainstreaming Webinar, held on 27 August, brought together industry leaders to share insights and experiences around mentorship, leadership, professional growth and the factors that shape meaningful engineering careers. 

The discussion was facilitated by Nduvho Motabatsindi from Zutari and explored how engineers could navigate their professional journeys while contributing to a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable industry. 

Amanda Masondo-Mkhize from MPAMOT highlighted the importance of creating meaningful conversations around the experiences of engineers. She also shared insights into our Transformation and Development Committee and its work to raise awareness around gender diversity and strengthen the pipeline of female talent within our member firms. 

Dennis Sibanda from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure encouraged engineers to use their expertise beyond the workplace by contributing to public discussions and serving on boards and committees. He also spoke about the importance of helping the public understand the consequences when sound engineering advice is not followed, as well as the need to build sustainable engineering-focused businesses and understand the financial dynamics involved in running them. 

Magdeleen Rabe from SMEC, who was recently recognised as the Mentor of the Year at the CESA Aon Engineering Excellence Awards 2026, challenged traditional approaches to mentorship. She emphasised that effective mentors should guide and support young professionals while giving them the space to develop their own professional identity. The discussion also highlighted that technical competence represents only one aspect of professional development, with communication, ethics, adaptability, stakeholder engagement and professional responsiveness also playing an important role. 

The webinar reinforced the importance of mentorship, inclusive opportunities, sustainable business practices and active leadership in supporting the continued development of our profession and the next generation of engineering professionals. 

We thank all the speakers, facilitator and attendees who contributed to this insightful discussion. 

Watch the full webinar on CE-tv. Click here to access the recording