Long-term partnerships are key to success

Mining equipment manufacturer Multotec Manufacturing senior sales engineer Inga Kimu is responsible for building and maintaining strong customer relationships, exceeding sales targets, and driving sustainable business growth. Born in Pretoria on March 20, 1986, Kimu holds a degree in Chemical Engineering and has built a successful career by combining technical expertise with a passion for delivering value to customers.

For Kimu, engineering is as much about people as it is about technology. She believes that understanding customers' needs, providing practical solutions, and building long-term partnerships are key to success in the mining industry. Her dedication and customer-centric approach have enabled her to consistently deliver results, with one of her proudest achievements being the successful attainment of her sales budget for three consecutive years.

Working in a traditionally male-dominated sector has strengthened Kimu's belief in leading through action. Her leadership style is founded on leading by example, remaining open-minded, embracing continuous learning, and sharing knowledge and experience with others. She believes that empowering colleagues and creating opportunities for growth are essential to building high-performing teams.

Inspired by influential global leaders such as Oprah Winfrey and Sir Richard Branson, Kimu is motivated by individuals who have challenged convention, created lasting impact, and inspired others to reach their full potential.

Her personal philosophy, “Learn, Earn and Return,” guides every aspect of her life and career. She believes that success should not only be measured by personal achievement, but also by the knowledge shared, opportunities created, and positive impact made on others.

Her message to women leaders across South Africa is simple yet powerful: "Work harder, be consistent and intentional, never give up, and continue to follow your dreams.” She believes that resilience, perseverance and purpose are the qualities that enable women to break barriers and create meaningful change in business and beyond.

Women shape an inclusive future in mining

Multotec Manufacturing senior sales engineer Doris Phiri is responsible for providing screening media solutions to gold mining customers. With her strong technical foundation and a customer-focused approach, she works closely with clients to understand their operational challenges and deliver solutions that improve performance and productivity.

Born in Rustenburg, in the North West, on December 30, 1987, Phiri holds a BTech in Extraction Metallurgy from the University of Johannesburg and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Practice from Henley Business School. Her commitment to continuous learning has been a defining feature of her career, with one of her proudest achievements being the successful completion of her postgraduate qualification while working full-time.

Phiri believes that strong leadership is built on collaboration, accountability and clear communication. Her management style is results-driven, while empowering those around her to contribute, grow and achieve shared goals. She values teamwork and believes that creating an environment where people feel supported ultimately leads to stronger business outcomes.

Throughout her career, Phiri has embraced every challenge as an opportunity to develop both professionally and personally. This mindset has enabled her to build a successful career in the mining industry while continually expanding her knowledge and leadership capabilities.

Inspired by former US First Lady Michelle Obama, Phiri admires her resilience, authentic leadership and commitment to empowering others. These qualities continue to influence her own approach to leadership and personal growth.

Her philosophy of life, “Every challenge is an opportunity to grow,” reflects her belief that perseverance and a willingness to learn are essential ingredients for success.

Her message to women leaders across South Africa is: “Lead with integrity, resilience and purpose. Every barrier we break today makes it easier for the women who will follow us tomorrow.” She believes that by supporting and uplifting one another, women can continue to shape a more inclusive and diverse future for the mining industry.