The world is often reminded of the gap between the ideal of gender equality and the realities that many women still experience in their working lives. At Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), women are encouraged to reach that ideal and make their dreams a reality.
Xoliswa Bekiswa is just another person making history for TNPA. This amazing young and dedicated woman has joined TNPA as the fourth black female open licence pilot in South Africa.
Last year saw Precious Dube, Bongiwe Mbambo and Pinky Zungu, the first three black females, of only five female marine pilots in South Africa, gain authority to guide anything from the very smallest vessels to the gigantic super tankers and container ships into port.
Today, these women like Precious Dube, have worked hard and achieved success in senior positions such as Deputy Harbour Master in Richards Bay.
Tau Morwe, Chief Executive of TNPA, said: “While the maritime industry is still male dominated, TNPA is striving towards bridging that gap by promoting and encouraging women to enter this industry.
“It is noteworthy that positive steps have been taken towards fulfilling this vision as a growing number of women – especially blacks – are seizing opportunities in this industry.”
Bekiswa, 29, from Mthatha, said her fascination began while on a Grade 11 school trip to the Grahamstown Science Festival.
“On the last day of the excursion, I went to curiously investigate an exhibition with pictures of vessels and ship models. The exhibitor explained in detail the process, dynamics and benefits of choosing a career in the maritime industry and I was hooked immediately.
“I started doing research on my own, and for me, the greatest achievement personally and professionally, is the day I got my unrestricted licence.” What is unrestricted licence?
In 2001 she received a bursary from TNPA to pursue a one-year maritime studies programme. She then went on to complete her practical training as a cadet out at sea with Unicorn Shipping Line.
After a compulsory oral examination with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), Bekiswa was awarded a Class 3 Desk Officer ticket to be a junior Deck Officer responsible for auto piloting vessels and managing safety equipment.
She then trained and worked as a tug master at the Port of Durban, directing ships in and out of the port with the aid of small tugboats.
After a one-year pilot training programme, she qualified as a junior pilot at the Port of Cape Town before progressing through the various licence grades, starting with smaller ships of around 16 000 gross tons, then 20 000, 25 000, 35 000 and eventually finishing with an open licence at the Port of Ngqura.
When asked about her experience as a marine pilot, Bekiswa explained that one of her challenges is working with different people from other countries as there appeared to be some sort of culture barrier.
“When I get onboard a vessel to pilot it in or out of port, I notice some reservation and fear from the Captain initially. However, they realise that I am quite efficient once I start manoeuvring the vessel.
“I take the lesson learnt from my mother with me every day, that through patience, perseverance, strength and faith, anything is possible,” said Bekiswa.
Morwe commended women for rising against all odds and working hard to achieve success, especially in the maritime industry.
“The participation of women in the shipping industry plays a huge part in contributing to the overall economic development of South Africa.”
Alan Straton
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