At the beginning of Women’s Month on 3 August 20923, bela hosted a panel discussion at the Beach Hotel to celebrate women in the built environment.
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5 Inspirational women – one from each decade – shared their experiences from their careers from across the Built Environment and over many years.
The panelists were:
1. Brittney Kok – Candidate Architect
Meet Brittney Kok, a talented candidate architect with a tenure of over two years at VR Architectural Design Studio. She has proven herself to be an exceptional and hard-working student, earning her bachelor’s degree in Architectural Studies Cum Laude, followed by her master’s degree in Architecture [Professional] from the Nelson Mandela University.
Throughout her academic journey, Brittney’s dedication and passion for design have been recognized through numerous achievements. In 2018, she stood out as one of the top nine finalists in the prestigious Caesarstone Students Designer Competition. More recently, Brittney was part of the VR Architectural Design Studio team, which earned a well-deserved spot among the top 10 finalists in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Competition in 2022.
Driven by her love for architectural design, Brittney is deeply committed to harmonizing the social environment with the natural environment. Her creativity and determination shine through in every project she undertakes, making her an invaluable asset to the VR Architectural Design Studio team.
Brittney’s journey in the architectural world exemplifies her relentless pursuit of excellence and her dedication to creating spaces that resonate with people on a profound level. With her remarkable achievements and unwavering passion, she continues to make her mark in the field of architecture.
2. Nosipho Roji – Quantity Surveyor
Meet Nosipho Roji, a dedicated professional with a strong background in Quantity Surveying. After completing her qualification at CPUT, she embarked on an enriching journey as a Junior Quantity Surveyor at GVK Siyazama in Cape Town, where she honed her skills and expertise over five years.
Seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth, Nosipho then joined Boshard Construction, also based in Cape Town, as a QS. During her time there, she gained extensive experience working on major building projects, further solidifying her reputation as a competent and capable Quantity Surveyor.
In 2020, a new chapter began as Nosipho’s family made the decision to relocate to Gqeberha. Embracing this change, she took on the role of Project Manager at Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM), where she continues to excel in the field of construction management.
Nosipho’s impressive journey showcases her unwavering commitment to professional development and her ability to adapt to new environments seamlessly.
3. Katharina Crafford – Construction Management lecturer
Meet Katharina Crafford, a dynamic professional with a Dipl.-Ing. degree in Civil Engineering, specialising in Construction Management and Building Economics from the University of Dortmund in Germany. As an accomplished Cost Manager, she has gained valuable international work experience in Germany, Ireland, and South Africa.
Originally from Germany, Katharina now calls South Africa her home, where she is making a significant impact as a Building Science lecturer at Nelson Mandela University. Her research expertise spans across areas such as Learning and Teaching, Green Building, 3D printing, and the empowering role of Women in Construction.
As a registered ICIOB member and a German national residing in South Africa, Katharina’s international background adds a global perspective to her field. Katharina’s heart is set on transforming the image of the male-dominated construction industry. With a passionate commitment, she strives to bridge the gender gap in the field by educating and inspiring the male and female youth, showcasing the transformative power of Women in Construction.
Katharina firmly believes that women belong and are indispensable for shaping the future of the Built Environment.
4. Edith Savanhu – Structural Engineer
Meet Edith Savanhu, an accomplished Design Structural Engineer who has been an integral part of KEON Consulting Engineers for the past 7 years. She has been fortunate to receive invaluable engineering mentoring from esteemed firms such as Hamish Scott Consulting Engineers and Aurecon (now known as Zutari). With an impressive 15-year career in structural engineering, Edith has garnered extensive expertise in designing reinforced concrete and structural steel structures, as well as rehabilitating buildings. Her versatile experience spans across various sectors, including hospitals, retail spaces, manufacturing plants, water retaining structures, and water and wastewater treatment facilities.
A defining moment in her career was her pivotal role in the design and construction of the remarkable FAURECIA warehouse in 2021. This exceptional project, located within the Tshwane Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) in Pretoria, became a hub for major industry leaders in car manufacturing, attracting investments from renowned companies like FORD. The warehouse serves as a crucial center for exports into and across Africa, contributing significantly to the growth of business in South Africa.
Edith’s work philosophy believes in “getting things done” and “done excellently for the first time”, “once and for all”. Why waste precious time? Her dedication to perfection drives her to achieve remarkable results consistently.
Outside of her thriving career, Edith finds solace and joy in outdoor adventures, making the most of her free time. But her true love? It’s music, folks! She’s got rhythm in her bones, and it keeps her pretty much sane amidst all the engineering madness.
Edith holds a BSc Honours degree in Civil Engineering from the esteemed University of Zimbabwe. Despite her illustrious career, she remains actively engaged in the built environment, continuously contributing her expertise to various projects up to the present day.
5. Diane Garcia – Architectural Technologist
Meet Diane Garcia; her journey in the field of architecture has been nothing short of remarkable. Her training under the Chief Draftsman of the S A Post Office Engineering Department provided her with a solid foundation in various aspects, including topographical, pipe- and overhead lines, and building design for the Post Office. Diane played a pivotal role in transforming the look of stereotype buildings from the 1970s, leaving a lasting legacy with the fully equipped multi-storey building in Polokwane, complete with a bomb shelter, bunker, and communication center.
During her tenure at Highveld Steele and Vanadium, Diane was instrumental in the construction of the new aluminum plant, working closely with the Chief Engineer and a team of specialists. Her commitment and expertise led her to oversee all drawings under the Chief Engineer’s guidance.
Following her time at Jeffreys Bay Municipality, Diane’s dedication to her craft continued to shine as she set up the first electronic data system for property records, infrastructure, and topographical plans for the town and surrounding areas. Her work with various departments and her involvement in organizing the annual Shell Festival showcased her leadership and collaborative skills.
With a passion for architecture, Diane ventured into private practice, forming a partnership with the Chief Building Control Officer. After several successful years, she continued her journey as a sole proprietor and later established a registered company with a team of qualified professionals.
Throughout her career, Diane has been involved in a diverse range of projects, including dwelling houses, churches, multiple dwelling developments, hotels, warehouses, and factories, collaborating with experts from various fields.
Diane’s wealth of experience and extensive travels have enriched her understanding of architectural spaces, particularly in factories and dwelling homes. Her personal experience as a caregiver for her paraplegic brother has made her acutely aware of the needs of disabled and senior citizens.
In short, Diane’s passion for architecture, coupled with her vast expertise and dedication, have made her a true visionary in the industry. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape, and she continues to inspire and innovate as she embraces the ever-changing world of architecture.
These exceptional women were interviewed by Alan Straton – Journalist and Founder of MyPE / MyGqeberha / MyPR:
Meet Alan Straton, a versatile individual with a deep connection to the world of radio and communication. For three years, he graced the airwaves of Campus Radio, co-presenting the Campus Radio Top Twenty on RADIO 5 (5 FM) on one unforgettable occasion. His passion for the written and spoken word has always been evident, whether through marketing efforts for businesses or his involvement in various publications.
Throughout his journey, Alan has held positions of responsibility, such as Commodore of ABYC, where he confidently embraced roles both in front of and behind the microphone and camera. His fair and empathetic nature allows him to fully understand others’ positions, making him adept at navigating diverse perspectives.
When it comes to narrating his YouTube videos or podcasts, Alan shines, feeling most at ease behind the microphone. He’s no stranger to the interviewee’s seat either, having been interviewed countless times on both radio and TV.
In essence, Alan’s approach is characterized by a caring and thoughtful demeanor, prioritizing understanding before action. However, when faced with injustice, he can assert himself firmly. His ability to strike this balance adds depth to his character and defines him as someone who cares deeply about the well-being of others.
The ladies were treated to goodie bags and treats per kind courtesy of Estee Lauder and Corobrik.
Related: bela to Celebrate women in the Built Environment with Estee Lauder
Chantelle van Rooyen