In celebration of International Women's Day, TAKRAF Group shines the spotlight on Tania Peacock, who has dared to pave her own path in the male-dominated mining industry.
Tania's entry into the industry was accidental. She originally started studying Mechanical Engineering, but fueled by her passion to help other people gain mobility, went in with the intention to move into Biomedical Engineering.
However, fate had other plans, “I got a bursary with an EPCM company and had to start working to pay back the bursary. In the process I developed a love for projects and seeing things come together” says Tania. In 2014, she started feeling she was limited in working for an EPCM and on one of her trips she drove past TAKRAF offices, and her thoughts gravitated to working for an OEM. “That’s where you really get to do the engineering and dig deep into technical details”, she adds. Fast forward several years Tania is now working for TAKRAF Group in South Africa.
When asked about her experiences as a woman in mining, Tania emphasized the importance of teamwork and humility. "You don't have all the answers, and you need to work as a team to get to the solution. Lose the ego – it helps no one." She also stressed the need for accountability, versatility and resilience in the face of challenges.
Tania's journey took a significant turn when she fell pregnant. Pregnancy brought with it new challenges, including physical limitations and fatigue but with the support from TAKRAF Group she navigated these obstacles with ease. “TAKRAF Group went above and beyond to accommodate my needs, sending colleagues to site in my place, and not forgetting the beautiful baby shower they had for me” she smiles.
Upon returning to work, Tania faced new challenges as a working mother. She had to balance her responsibilities as a project manager with the demands of motherhood. Her strategy? Making conscious decisions to prioritize family time and being productive during work hours. "I have a better appreciation for my peers who face these challenges. I made a conscious decision to spend time with my daughter and husband. This meant sacrificing things I enjoy doing like watching TV, sleep or going to the gym in order to sing 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat' about 50 times – it's our special bonding time!"
Today, Tania is working on three major projects, one as a Project Manager and two as a Project Engineer. When asked about managing the added pressure, she credits her colleagues and employer for their support. "TAKRAF Group has amazing employees who go the extra mile to assist one another."
Looking into the future, Tania offers advice to other women in the mining industry considering starting a family: "Just do it. It's the most important thing you will ever do in your life." She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing family and being prepared to face challenges head-on.
Tania's story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and determination. As we celebrate International Women's Day, we honor women like Tania who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.
"Smooth sailing doesn't make good sailors," Tania says, quoting words of wisdom she once received. "Make a decision on what you want and be prepared to rough it out to achieve that goal or dream."
This article is part of our ongoing series spotlighting the remarkable women contributing to the mining industry at TAKRAF Group. Stay tuned for more inspiring and personal interviews with our international colleagues.
Innovation out of tradition – It pays to talk to a specialist!