The event was a collaboration between Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Corporate Social Investment (CSI) and Talent Management, highlighting Zutari’s commitment to cultivating an emerging talent ecosystem with a diverse talent pipeline. “This initiative provided invaluable hands-on experience and insights to our young inquiring minds. It is a true testament to Zutari’s commitment to fostering growth and nurturing our young talent.” Zita Hollenbach: Talent Partner.
On the first day, the learners were welcomed into the innovative landscape, ready to experience the engineering world. Our Chief People Officer, Monique Ngcobo, welcomed them with an introduction to Zutari and our commitment to building a future that supports our communities, sustains the environment, and nurtures future generations.
Young engineers gave learners a glimpse into what it’s like to work at Zutari. Mpho Sikwe: Civil Engineering Technician took them through projects in the Transport Unit. Civil Engineer: Msawenkosi Mkhize took them on a virtual tour of some of Zutari’s most remarkable projects, including the iconic Amazon building in Cape Town.
Immersed in an environment where ideas flourish, and boundaries are pushed, these aspiring engineers experienced Zutari’s digital prowess. Digital Lead Richard Matchett and Leader Reality Capture Associate: Louis De Klerk showcased the digital equipment used for projects. Later, Zutari’s pioneering women, Design Engineer: Annemie Swart and Geotechnical Engineer: Savannah Canto, for a fun and interactive digital site experience. The digital experience in the Cape Town office gave learners an opportunity to play with the VR gadgets used in our practice by the Digital Lead: Selvan Murugan and Senior Unity Developer: Devashen Govender. The Bridge Building Challenge was among the highlights of day one, seamlessly blending creativity with practical skills. In this inventive challenge, overseen by Zutari’s bridge team, the learners leveraged basic arts and crafts materials like popsicle sticks and wood glue to design and construct bridges, not just as structures but as manifestations of collaboration and ingenuity. Day one concluded with the learners awaiting their bridges to be tested, leaving them excitedly anticipating the results.
Day two of the programme kicked off with a safety moment from Civil Engineer: Nakedi Malesa. The theme shifted towards envisioning future possibilities, beginning with a keynote address by CESA CEO Christopher Campbell, who showed learners the exciting world of engineering and its exciting careers.
The CEO of CESA provided expert career guidance, and students delved into the diverse opportunities that the engineering sector offers, preparing them to navigate their future career paths with confidence and curiosity. Learners were introduced to the multifaceted career paths available within the engineering sector. The journey through different environments where engineering skills can be applied – from consulting and manufacturing to institutional settings. This highlighted the versatility of an engineering career and the broad spectrum of opportunities available to those equipped with engineering skills.
Civil Engineer: Karabo Mashabane gave the learners an insider’s look at the type of projects Zutari’s Transport Unit works on. They also met Karlien Brink, Technical Director in our built environment unit, who shared her passion for creating the future and showcased some of Zutari’s projects across Africa and the Middle East.
Day 2’s fun activity challenged the learners to build the tallest tower possible using spaghetti and marshmallows. Here, learners had to apply their imaginations, similar to the bridge challenge, and think outside the box to construct their structures. Though some spaghetti was harmed in the process, many solid and imaginative towers stood tall in the end. Civil Engineer: Raheemah Kaka concluded the activity by teaching them the importance of perseverance when pursuing their goals. She shared her journey to becoming an engineer, demonstrated the true Zutari spirit, and showed grit. Candidate Engineer: Onkabetse Modisakeng from the water unit then shared her expertise, explaining the fascinating world of water purification and how Zutari is the future when it comes to helping the world get clean, safe water.
“To truly impact young talent, business needs to start by sharing information and experiences that make an impact into career decisions.” Diane Myers: Head of Talent Management.
Finally, judgment loomed over the aspiring engineers’ bridges, and the learners watched as Zutari’s bridge team tested their construction. One by one, the bridges faced the test of strength, and in the end, three bridges, the Soweto Bridge, Dragon Monster Bridge and Trailblazer Bridge, stood as the top three champions.
For our Grade 11 and 12 learners, the two days of CESA Job Shadow Day concluded with insights into the availability of diverse educational pathways in engineering and Zutari’s academic support offerings for emerging talent. It stressed the importance of informed decision-making about one’s academic and career journey. With the emphasis on the longevity of one’s career choice, the learners were encouraged to seek comprehensive information and consider both immediate and long-term prospects.
“The 2024 Job Shadow Day was not merely an event; it was a milestone in cultivating a new generation of engineers who are ready to tackle global challenges with innovation, passion, and resilience. By bridging the gap between education and real-world application, Zutari, together with CESA, has encouraged young minds to envision a brighter, more sustainable future for all,” – Senzekile Mdluli, Head of Diversity Equity, Inclusion and CSI.
