Leading with Purpose: A Journey into Mining and Corporate Affairs
Tozama Kulati Siwisa never planned on a career in mining, but once she stepped into the industry, she found her purpose. She quickly realized that mining wasn’t just about extracting minerals it had the power to change lives, build economies, and transform communities when done responsibly. What drew her in was the chance to bridge the gap between businesses and the communities they impact. She found her calling in corporate affairs, ensuring that mining companies don’t just operate in communities but truly engage with them. One of the defining moments in her journey was leading the Stakeholder Engagement & Social and Labour Plan portfolio at Lonmin during a time of social unrest. That experience reinforced the importance of deep listening something she continues to champion today at West Wits Mining, where she drives ESG initiatives that balance people, the planet, and profit.
Breaking Barriers: A Woman’s Journey in a Male-Dominated Industry
Walking into the mining world as a woman often feels like stepping into a space where the rules were written without you in mind. Kulati Siwisa has faced resistance, been overlooked, and had to prove herself in ways her male counterparts never had to. But rather than shrink herself to fit in, she chose to lead on her own terms with a mix of intuition, strategy, and authenticity. She refuses to conform to outdated leadership styles and instead focuses on delivering results, growing her skillset, and building networks that support women in mining. For her, success isn’t just personal it’s about opening doors for other women and ensuring they don’t have to fight the same battles she did.
ESG as a Catalyst for Change: The Future of Responsible Mining
Mining is at a turning point, where ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is no longer a box to check it’s central to decision-making. Kulati Siwisa believes ESG is now directly tied to investor confidence, operational stability, and long-term growth. Looking ahead, she sees ESG becoming more about innovation than compliance. Mining companies are rethinking water use, adopting green energy, and planning for post-closure community benefits. Social impact is gaining the same weight as financial performance, and governance models are evolving to be more ethical and inclusive. Technology, from real-time environmental monitoring to blockchain-backed ethical sourcing, will play a huge role in shaping this shift. The biggest change, however, is in mindset more leaders are realizing that profit and purpose can go hand in hand. That shift, she believes, will define the industry’s future.
Tackling Sustainability Challenges at West Wits Mining
The challenges in mining today are vast: climate change, water scarcity, social inequalities, and land rehabilitation, to name a few. Sustainability isn’t just important; it’s urgent. At West Wits Mining, sustainability is built into the foundation of every project, not treated as an afterthought. The Qala Shallows project is a prime example, incorporating community engagement and environmental responsibility from day one. The company is always looking for ways to reduce its footprint using less energy, less water, and generating less waste while also leaving a positive impact on communities and landscapes.
Fostering Trust with Zama-Zama Communities
Artisanal miners, known as Zama-Zamas, are often seen as a threat to formal mining operations. But Kulati Siwisa takes a different approach seeing them as human beings first. She understands that many are just trying to make a living in an economy that hasn’t given them many options. The key to building trust, she says, is simple: listen. It’s not about showing up only when there’s a crisis but maintaining ongoing conversations. By engaging with local leaders and community representatives, she has helped shift relationships from conflict to collaboration.
Balancing Business, People, and the Planet
For Kulati Siwisa, economic, social, and environmental goals are deeply connected. A business that ignores its social and environmental responsibilities risks its own future. On the other hand, a company that prioritizes people and the planet builds long-term resilience and earns stakeholder trust. In every decision, she asks: How will this affect the community? What impact will it have on the environment now and in the future? At West Wits Mining, ESG metrics are just as important as financial performance. The focus isn’t just short-term profit but sustainable growth that benefits everyone involved.
Advice for Young Women Aspiring to Lead in Mining
Kulati Siwisa’s advice to young women is simple: know that you belong. Develop your technical and leadership skills, but don’t underestimate the power of communication, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. These are what set great leaders apart. Find mentors who will challenge and guide you. Speak up, even when it’s uncomfortable. Join professional groups like Women in Mining and stay informed about industry trends. And most importantly, define success on your own terms there’s no one way to lead.
Lessons from a Career in Mining
Looking back: Kulati Siwisa shares three lessons she wishes she had known earlier:
Change takes time: Some of the biggest transformations she has led took years to come to life.
Set boundaries: Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. Rest and reflection are key to sustainable leadership.
Listen more than you speak: The best leaders create space for others, building stronger teams and communities in the process.
The Future of Mining: A Wave of Innovation
Kulati Siwisa is excited about the innovations reshaping the mining industry. Circular economy practices are turning waste into resources, and carbon-neutral operations are becoming a reality with renewable energy and electric mining fleets. The future of mining, she believes, won’t just be measured by how much is extracted, but by the positive impact created for people and the planet.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Integrity
Kulati Siwisa’s vision for the mining industry is one where every person whether an executive, a worker, or a community member feels seen, heard, and valued. Her legacy won’t just be about the projects she led but the people she empowered. She leads with heart and integrity, ensuring that mining is more than just an industry it’s a force for lasting, meaningful change. And with her leadership, that future is already taking shape.
