Manufacturing conference to address gender gap

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"For decades, women have been underrepresented in the sector and it’s high time we close the gender gap within the manufacturing sector. Research indicates that companies/organisations with diverse leadership are more profitable, so it is high time women in South Africa’s manufacturing sector took a stand and be more involved in the decision-making within the sector. This conference seeks to address these and other factors affecting women in manufacturing, textile and leather industries. It’s not just about getting more women into manufacturing, it’s about strengthening manufacturing by engaging more people,” says Betsy Engels, director of sales and marketing at Rapid Prototype Manufacturing. “If you focus on women, you’re expanding your talent pool.”

Women across the globe will be sharing their views, perspectives, success stories and challenges within the industry at the Women in Manufacturing Textile & Leather Conference 2016.

Speakers include:

• Shaleen Manhire Nullens, entrepreneur MC/chairperson
  
• Chantell Vermaak-Johnson, GM: Human Resources, Vektronix
  
• Rashmee Ragaven, strategic partnerships, Department of Trade and Industry South Africa
  
• Jo Galloway, COO and financial director, SA Rice Mills
  
• Boitumelo (Tumi) Liese, SL Diamond Tools
  
• Khanya Okumu, post investment associate for Manufacturing and Supply Chain, Masisizane Fund
  
• Felleng Yende, CEO, FP & Manufacturing SETA
  
• Maria Immanuel, senior trade and investment policy analyst, Namibia Trade Forum
  
• Elizabeth L. Engels, VP, Commercial Tata Steel
  
• Noma Nibe, business executive director, Steloy Castings
  
• Philippa Rodseth, executive director, Manufacturing Circle

For more info, go to www.amabhubesi.com.