Young excavator operator pursues growth in mining

Maria Moyo has an optimistic outlook after getting skills training at Gugulethu Colliery

Exposure to mining operations has introduced Maria Moyo to a world of possibilities within the industry’s value chain. She started working at Gugulethu as an excavator operator in December 2023 through the mine’s skills development initiative.

Maria is adamant that her journey in mining will not be limited to operating yellow machinery. “My life has already begun to change and I intend to do environmental studies at tertiary because I’ve just discovered that there is a lot one can do in this industry,” Maria says.

Her dreams of obtaining a degree after matric were dashed when she could not afford the tuition. Prior to joining Gugulethu, Maria got a few temporary jobs at the department of transport but struggled to find permanent work. “A lot of young people do not have jobs around here. This programme has given us hope that eventually things will change,” says Maria.