Manufacturing conference to address gender gap

The Amabhubesi Women in Manufacturing Textile & Leather Conference will take place at Emperors Place in Johanneburg from 26-27 October. By showcasing opportunities the manufacturing industry has to offer, the conference aims to inspire the next generation of female leaders to pursue a career in this field.

"For decades, women have been underrepresented in the sector and it’s high time we close the gender gap within the manufacturing sector. Research indicates that companies/organisations with diverse leadership are more profitable, so it is high time women in South Africa’s manufacturing sector took a stand and be more involved in the decision-making within the sector. This conference seeks to address these and other factors affecting women in manufacturing, textile and leather industries. It’s not just about getting more women into manufacturing, it’s about strengthening manufacturing by engaging more people,” says Betsy Engels, director of sales and marketing at Rapid Prototype Manufacturing. “If you focus on women, you’re expanding your talent pool.”

Women across the globe will be sharing their views, perspectives, success stories and challenges within the industry at the Women in Manufacturing Textile & Leather Conference 2016.

Speakers include:

Shaleen Manhire Nullens, entrepreneur MC/chairperson
Chantell Vermaak-Johnson, GM: Human Resources, Vektronix
Rashmee Ragaven, strategic partnerships, Department of Trade and Industry South Africa
Jo Galloway, COO and financial director, SA Rice Mills
Boitumelo (Tumi) Liese, SL Diamond Tools
Khanya Okumu, post investment associate for Manufacturing and Supply Chain, Masisizane Fund
Felleng Yende, CEO, FP & Manufacturing SETA
Maria Immanuel, senior trade and investment policy analyst, Namibia Trade Forum
Elizabeth L. Engels, VP, Commercial Tata Steel
Noma Nibe, business executive director, Steloy Castings
Philippa Rodseth, executive director, Manufacturing Circle

For more info, go to www.amabhubesi.com.