Tell us about yourself and what you do
I’m an Environmental scientist by training, working mainly in mining for about 35 years. Currently I am the MMP Executive Director, managing research development and innovation facilitation through the public-private-partnership between the DSI and the Minerals Council South Africa. I have also practiced as a professional coach and was successfully independent for 16 years.
What defining moment or experience set you on your path, and how has it shaped who you are today?
I fell in love with nature when I was 4 years old. It is where I connect most readily with my version of the Divine. Becoming an environmental scientist, learning about psychology, values, leadership and how people make decisions, and working in mining is a direct result of that connection.
In what ways do you hope your journey will inspire and pave the way for future generations of women in your field?
I grew up in a relatively unwealthy household, and have faced significant health and personal challenges. My desire for change is what has driven me, and kept me going in tough times, and I feel that my current position provides a perfect opportunity to effect future change. Knowing what is important to you is key to maintaining your grace and enthusiasm throughout life, including in your career. A healthy dose of humour is very useful too!
What values and principles have guided you throughout your career and life, helping you to forge your unique path?
Love. Simple to say, and very difficult to practice in the everyday. My love for nature and people, and my belief that our deepest commonalities outweigh our differences, continues to inform how I work, and who I try to be in every situation. I wrote a book about Love, available for free (www.harmonyrising.co.za).
What’s a book, movie, or song that has had a significant impact on your life or career and how?
Queen – Love of My life (1995). For me, this poignant song is ‘nature’ talking to humanity. The original video of the song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUJkCXE4sAA also showed me how just a few words communicated in the right way can move thousands of people. My fascination with the power of effective communication and how it can shape what is important to us was partly inspired by this. In contrast, the Disturbed version of Sound of Silence https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Dg-g7t2l4 is a powerful and hopeful rallying call for and message of social, economic and environmental justice: I have used this in many of my lectures on ethics, governance and sustainability.
What’s your go-to hobby or activity that helps you unwind after a long day?
Climbing, yoga, being with my dogs, writing and reading. On really tough days, binging Netflix!
I am too magnificent to…. drink bad coffee.
