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For Amantle K.W. Kgotlaang, a passionate final-year Geology student at the University of Botswana (UB), breaking into the mining industry has been more than just an academic pursuit. It is a personal journey filled with leadership, mentorship and an unwavering commitment to gender equity in a traditionally male-dominated field. Hailing from Lentsweletau in the Kweneng District, Amantle has carved out a place for herself in the world of earth sciences, both within her university and beyond, demonstrating that young women can rise to leadership roles in industries that once appeared out of reach.

Amantle’s recent participation in the Women in Mining Conference 2024 under the theme “Rising Together to Become Stronger Together” was a critical moment in her remarkable journey. Supported by Sandfire Motheo Copper Mine and spearheaded by event convenor, Mrs Malebogo Marumoagae, the conference brought together industry leaders, advocates and professionals to discuss pressing issues such as gender diversity, sustainable mining practices and inclusive leadership. For Amantle, attending the conference was not just an opportunity to network but a transformative experience that reinforced her commitment to uplifting women in the mining sector.

Reflecting on the event, Amantle shares, “Attending the Women in Mining Conference was eye-opening. I realised the power of gender diversity in strengthening leadership and saw firsthand how female leaders are driving meaningful change in the industry.” Listening to keynote speeches, particularly one by Mrs Elisa Modikwa on inclusive leadership, underscored for Amantle the critical role of accountability in fostering diversity.

“Accountability is essential for creating inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued,” she notes. The emphasis on building diverse teams is something Amantle is passionate about as she prepares to enter the workforce.

Beyond leadership, the conference highlighted the need for sustainable mining practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. Amantle left with a deep appreciation for the role of responsible mining in safeguarding resources and uplifting communities, a principle she aims to carry forward as she builds her career.

Another standout moment for Amantle was meeting the Game Changers Conveners Award winners, Mrs Goitsemang Moitoi and Mrs Eunice Mpoloka, founder of Pick ‘N Shovel Botswana and recipient of the Exceptional Woman in Mining award.

“Hearing their stories reminded me of the importance of resilience and adaptability,” says Amantle. “They emphasised that in such a challenging industry, mentorship and networking are key to navigating obstacles and advancing careers.”

The conference also featured workshops on leadership, practical tools for team collaboration, and ways to advocate for more gender-inclusive policies within organisations. Amantle learnt that one of the keys to success in mining, and indeed in any industry, is continuous upskilling. The message closely echoed themes from a recent radio interview on "Elevating Women Through Strategic Upskilling and Collaboration," hosted by RB2 presenters Goitsemang Khutsafalo and Botholicious. In the interview, Amantle joined Mrs Marumoagae as well as Mrs Mpoloka to discuss how targeted training and skill-building can unlock new opportunities for women.

“Both the conference and the radio interview emphasized that we can elevate women’s careers by intentionally building skills and fostering collaboration,” explains Amantle. “Upskilling is more than just acquiring knowledge, it is about gaining the confidence to take on senior roles and make impactful decisions.” Her experiences at the conference and on air have fuelled her determination to champion upskilling initiatives within her field which she believes are crucial for breaking gender barriers.

Collaboration was another recurring theme, with female leaders advocating for strong networks and partnerships to drive innovation and growth. Amantle, who serves as Secretary of the UB Geo-Science Club, has long embraced this philosophy. In her role, she organises events and initiatives that promote geoscience among students, demonstrating how collaboration can inspire collective success. Her leadership skills, honed through the club, align perfectly with the conference’s message of collaboration. “Collaboration is key to advancing not only individual careers but also the industry as a whole,” says Amantle, recalling how the conference reinforced her belief in the power of partnerships.

As Amantle nears the completion of her Bachelor of Science in Geology, she envisions a future where she can apply her newfound insights. She plans to take an active role in industry-wide initiatives that promote inclusivity and support the advancement of women. By participating in leadership programmes, expanding her technical skills and building networks, she is determined to become a driving force in the mining sector. Her ultimate goal? To contribute to a mining industry that values diversity, embraces sustainable practices and champions the growth of women in leadership.

Looking back, Amantle expresses deep gratitude to the sponsors and mentors who have supported her along the way. “I am incredibly thankful to Sandfire Motheo Copper Mine and Mrs Marumoagae for making it possible for me to attend the Women in Mining Conference,” she says. “Their support has given me a vision for my future and empowered me to continue breaking barriers.”

With her passion for geology, strong communication skills as well as dedication to promoting gender equity, Amantle stands as an inspiring example of what the future holds for young women in mining. She believes that by investing in professional growth and embracing collaboration, women can transform the industry from within, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

For more on Amantle’s journey and insights from the Women in Mining Conference 2024, follow her upcoming contributions to the University of Botswana Geo-Science Club and other industry initiatives.