International Women in Engineering Day (INWED)

celebrates women engineers who have enhanced lives and livelihoods through their work. 

This annual event, held on 23 June, acknowledges the incredible contributions of women engineers worldwide. It marks its 11th anniversary in 2024 under the theme of #Enhancedbyengineering. This year, INWED honours remarkable women who contribute to building a brighter future for all. 

Rising stars 

Zutari supports INWED by applauding six exceptional women engineers who are making their mark at the company: 

• Alme du Plessis, Integration Manager for Greater Africa: “Engineering transcends boundaries, enabling us to solve complex problems and create meaningful impacts globally. Embrace diversity, be bold and dream big.” 
• Florida Simiyu, Professional Mechanical Engineer: “Engineering is about providing innovative solutions to ever evolving problems. Seek out new opportunities and never fear bold moves.” 
• Jabu Nhlapo, Engineering Manager: “Africa’s resource richness paired with its infrastructure gaps offers immense opportunities for sustainable development. Embrace the dynamic field of engineering to contribute to this growth.” 
• Jacqueline Floor, Lead Process Engineer: “In the vast field of engineering, you can discover countless avenues where you truly belong. I am passionate about engineering because it is challenging, satisfying and purposeful.” 
• Janeke Volkmann, Structural Engineer: “Engineering offers endless opportunities for growth and learning, with each project bringing new challenges and experiences.” 
• Terresha Moodley, Professional Structural Engineer: “Every day in engineering brings a new challenge, and for me, that’s the thrill of it. Seeing my work come to life is incredibly fulfilling.” 

Alme du Plessis, Integration Manager for Greater Africa.

Florida Simiyu, Professional Mechanical Engineer.

Jabu Nhlapo, Engineering Manager.

Jacqueline Floor, Lead Process Engineer.

Janeke Volkmann, Structural Engineer.

Words of encouragement

Simiyu says women can contribute significantly to the 2024 INWED theme by showcasing the transformative power of engineering, and the vital role that diverse perspectives play in driving progress and innovation.  

Nhlapo’s message to young girls is to consider the great opportunities in technical professional fields. There are also new emerging fields and disciplines due to rapid changes in technology.  

Women in engineering have made significant contributions to the field, paving the way for others to follow. “Do not underestimate yourself. Push ahead to become what you aspire to be, making a positive impact in the world and the lives of those around you,” says Floor. 

Volkmann believes women who showcase their engineering skills grow in confidence and inspire others to pursue careers that are traditionally thought of as male-dominated career paths. Her advice to young girls is: “The industry is changing. In my experience, I have never felt side-lined as a female in office nor on site.” 

“Women have different mindsets and offer different perspectives to problem-solving and decision-making. Solutions are generally framed from a more personal outlook, which is wonderful and refreshing,” Moodley concludes. 

For more information, contact Zutari: 

Tel: +27 12 427 2000 

Email: connect@zutari.com  

Website: www.zutari.com