Edition May 2025

Portia Maposse is among a growing number of young Black South African women making their mark in tradition- ally male-dominated industries. At just 25 years old, she serves as a Systems Engineer at the Gibela Rail Transport Consortium in Nigel, Gauteng.

Gibela is a black economic empowerment rail transport consortium comprising Alstom and uBumbano Rail.

It was established in 2013, as a ring-fenced company for the execution of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) rolling-stock fleet-renewal programme. This contract is meant to deliver 600 trainsets to PRASA and provide technical support and related services.

Maposse joined Gibela in 2023 as a Process Manufacturing Engineering Intern and worked her way up to becoming a Systems Engineer in 2024, bringing her dream to fruition.

“The journey started in high school. I went to a technical high school, where I chose the Mechanical Technology Stream. Then at university I pursued Mechanical Engineering, “ she told Public Sector Manager, in a recent interview.

Her story was featured during a recent visit to the consortium's train manufacturing facility in Dunnottar, Nigel, as part of the celebration of the Decade of the Artisan, with a special focus on female artisans.

According to the Department of Higher Education and Training, the initiative aims to encourage more young people – both high school learners and unemployed youth – to view artisanship as a viable and rewarding career path.

The visit was part of the Government Communication and Information System’s celebrations of 30 Years of Democracy.

Inclusion and diversity

Asked about working in a traditionally a male-dominated industry, she said: “Women are now leading in the industry. The industry caters, protects and accommodates women. Opportunities are endless. Always keep in mind that results matter and that women are more powerful.”

Her role involves collaborating with suppliers to develop systems that meet the company’s specifications. She then works closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of these systems into the final product – the train. Additionally, she is responsible for overseeing the overall performance of the systems.

“My role aligns with all five values of our company namely; customer focus and care, innovation, trust and respect, teamwork, and partnership, finally focus and accountability,” she added.

Advice to young professionals

Despite being the only woman and youngest in her team, Maposse confidently holds her own in this male-dominated industry.

“Age is not a disadvantage, and I will not be young forever. Therefore, I am embracing this by being open to learning and appreciating the opportunity given to me. Gender has never been an issue. Not once have I felt different in the work setting thanks to the Gibela culture on gender-equality.

She advised young women who are not sure about their career choices to follow their passion.

“It is important to be confident in your abilities and participate actively on the day-to-day work activities. Be yourself and maintain confidence.

“Education is key to success. Never stop learning; seek mentorship. Being in positive circles, networking is important in building long term connections within the industry," she advised.

When asked about her most memorable moments at Gibela, the young engineer recalled her induction days, when she had the opportunity to witness a
train being built from the profile stage all the way through to testing and commissioning.

“It was during the same period that I had my first train ride experience here on site and it was an amazing and unforgettable experience.”

Democracy

For the young engineer, democracy holds deep significance, as it has paved the way for her to reach where she is today.

“To me democracy means the importance of youth voices in shaping the future of our country [followed by] the right to free education for all. One might ask why? I would say that is the opportunity I had, and it has led me to where I am today”.

Maposse hopes to be remembered as a team player who contributed to the success of the Gibela project through in novation and by fostering a collaborative work environment.

Gibela employs over 1 200 staff members, with women making up 43% of the workforce – a notable stride in gender representation within the rail industry.

The company’s vision is to transform South Africa’s commuter rail system into the trans- port mode of choice.