What does it take to build a career in energy without a degree?Hosts Nolukhanyo Mpisane and Wandile Ntshingila speak with Kedibone, an administrator turned aspiring energy professional, proving that passion and persistence can open doors. She shares how short courses, curiosity, and continuous learning shaped her path and how she’s helping others enter the renewable energy space.
Watch Part 1 with Zukisani George from De Aar, Northern Cape:
https://youtu.be/tiGtbMG4Cn4?si=_8gZmzbW6xH9--a9
No one should be left behind in the Just Energy Transition.
#YouthInEnergy #EnergyConversations #RenewableEnergy #CareerPathways #EnergyTransition #SkillsDevelopment
Energy Careers brings you a focused conversation with Monde Bala, CEO of the National Transmission Company of South Africa. He shares his career journey from his studies through his early professional roles to leading the country’s new transmission entity. The discussion explores Eskom’s restructuring, the mandate of the NTCSA, and what transmission reform means for reliability, grid investment, and the Just Energy Transition. Mr Bala also offers a perspective on regulatory changes, private sector participation, and how communities and businesses can adapt to a transforming energy system.
This episode of Energy Conversations features Monde Bala, CEO of the National Transmission Company of South Africa. He discusses the restructuring of Eskom, the role of the new transmission company, and its implications for South Africa’s electricity future. The conversation unpacks how transmission reforms affect reliability, investment in the grid, and the country’s Just Energy Transition. Mr Bala also shares insights on regulatory shifts, private sector participation, and how communities and businesses can position themselves in a changing energy system.
How do you become a supplier of choice in South Africa’s energy ecosystem? In this episode, Thokozile Zambane is joined by Oliver Johnston (Solink), Rita Chen (Agripower), and Mandisa Ngcobo (Nobantu Consulting) to unpack the realities of market access — beyond compliance and beyond capital. From what clients actually look for in suppliers, to how entrepreneurs can position themselves for visibility, trust, and delivery, this episode offers a practical, honest look at what it takes to move from "in business" to in demand. Essential listening for energy entrepreneurs looking to build client-ready, contract-winning businesses in a competitive market. #EnergyConversations #MarketAccess #EntrepreneursInEnergy #SupplierReadiness
In this episode of the Youth in Energy Conversations Podcast, we dive into how artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools are transforming operations and maintenance (O&M) in the renewable energy sector.
Our guest, Joshua, a young and innovative entrepreneur, shares how tech-driven solutions are making energy systems more reliable, unlocking new business models, and shaping the future of infrastructure and policy.
🎙 What you’ll learn in this episode:
What AI and digital tools mean in practical energy terms
How technology is revolutionizing O&M in renewable energy
Why O&M is critical to system performance and energy transition
The future of technology in the renewable energy sector
This is a must-listen conversation for anyone passionate about technology, entrepreneurship, and South Africa’s energy transition. Whether you’re in the energy industry, exploring clean tech solutions, or curious about the role of digital innovation in a sustainable future, this episode offers valuable insights.
In this episode of Energy Careers, hosts Nolukhanyo Mpisane and Wandile Ntshingila dive into the dynamic career paths of two professionals shaping South Africa’s carbon economy, Marike Wilson, CFO of Fibon Group, and Shaun Slabber, CEO of Crunch Carbon.
Through personal stories and professional insights, the episode unpacks:
🔹 How each guest entered and evolved in the energy and carbon space
🔹 Key skills and milestones that shaped their journeys
🔹 Lessons on navigating the emerging carbon markets
🔹 What the future holds for careers in the carbon economy
Whether you're a student, early-career professional, or industry veteran, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on building a meaningful career in energy and climate.
Powered by the African Energy Leadership Centre at Wits Business School.
Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
In this episode, host Thokozile Zambane explores the future of carbon markets and South Africa’s role in the global carbon economy. She is joined by Marike Wilson, CFO of Fibon Group, and Shaun Slabber, CEO of Crunch Carbon.
The discussion covers:
How carbon credits and trading work
Opportunities and risks for South Africa in the global carbon market
The role of policy, investment, and accountability
What businesses should know before entering the carbon space?
This episode is powered by the African Energy Leadership Centre at Wits Business School.
Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
Welcome back to Energy Conversations, where we break down South Africa’s energy sector into insights that matter. In this episode, host Thokozile Zambane sits down with Deputy Minister Samantha Graham-Maré to go beyond policies and into the personal story behind her leadership. Together, they explore:* The life experiences that shaped her journey.* What power looks like when wielded by women in the energy sector.* The South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM).* The future of green hydrogen.* The critical question of access: ensuring young people and women benefit from the transition.It’s a conversation about vision, resilience, and the legacy women are shaping in South Africa’s energy future. Catch the full episode now on Energy Conversations @Energyconvos on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.#EnergyConversations #SheIsPower #WomensMonth2025 #EnergyTransition #RenewableEnergy #GreenHydrogen #YouthInEnergy #Leadership #WomenInEnergy #JustTransition
Navigating the Energy Sector as a Young Professional highlights the journey of training, growth, and leadership in South Africa’s energy industry, with a focus on young women forging their paths. Originally a webinar, this episode now reaches podcast listeners.
Engineer in Training at Koeberg, Shela Sekhasembe; Senior Nuclear Safety Analyst, Linina Bedhesi; EV/HEV Training Centre Administrator, Cecilia Bassog; and Social Specialist at AMEA Power, Bianca Michaeline Jordan share how they built skills, navigated challenges, and stepped into leadership roles across nuclear, electric mobility, and renewable energy.
They unpack the realities of professional development, mentorship, and representation, offering guidance for those aiming to lead in the energy space.
Subscribe now to learn how young women are driving change in energy—and how you can lead the way.
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In this episode, we chart the career journeys of two pioneering leaders driving microgrid innovation in South Africa. This is more than a conversation — it's a masterclass in how to build a purpose-driven career in energy.
🔹 Dom Wills – Founder & Executive Director, Sola Group
Dom began his journey as a solar entrepreneur when South Africa’s decentralised energy market was still in its infancy. Today, he leads one of the country’s most respected solar companies. Learn how he built technical credibility, navigated regulation, scaled a business, and stayed ahead in a rapidly evolving sector.
🔹 Nombulelo Shabangu – CEO, Likhanye Consulting & Lead on the Eastern Cape Microgrid Programme
Nombulelo carved a niche at the intersection of engineering, policy, and community development. From consultancy to leading large-scale microgrid deployments, her path reveals how women are shaping inclusive, locally grounded energy solutions. She shares how she developed the expertise, networks, and vision to lead in a male-dominated field.
• How to enter and grow in the decentralised energy sector
• The real skills needed — from project development to stakeholder engagement
• Navigating challenges: policy uncertainty, community trust, funding gaps
• The role of entrepreneurship, leadership, and mission in shaping energy careers
• Why microgrids offer more than power — they offer careers with purpose
Ideal for:
Graduates, technicians, consultants, community organisers, policy professionals, and anyone asking: "Where do I fit in South Africa’s energy transition?"
🎓 Two real journeys. One shared mission: energy access for all.
🎙 Featuring:💼 What You’ll Learn:
In this episode, we explore how microgrids are changing the way South Africa generates, delivers, and governs electricity, particularly in underserved areas.
We’re joined by:
🔹 Dom Wills, Founder & Executive Director of Sola Group, a national leader in decentralised solar solutions
🔹 Nombulelo Shabangu, Founder & CEO of Likhanye Consulting and lead implementer of the Eastern Cape microgrid programme
Together, we unpack:
• What microgrids are — and why they matter now
• How decentralised systems can improve access, resilience, and local ownership
• The real-world barriers and breakthroughs in delivering these projects
• What a just, inclusive energy future could look like
Essential listening for anyone interested in practical energy solutions, local innovation, and South Africa’s energy transition.
What does it really mean to be investment ready in South Africa’s energy sector?In this episode, Thokozile Zambane speaks with Nunu Ngoasheng (JPMU) and Vincent Maposa(Wetility) about what funders actually look for, how to align the right capital to your business model, and what it takes to move from fundable deck to fundable business.Essential listening for energy entrepreneurs navigating access to finance.#EnergyConversations #InvestmentReady #EntrepreneursInEnergy
Energy Careers: From Studies to Systems Change. In this episode, we follow the career journeys of Tebogo Mohlahlana, founder of Reama AI, and Janus van As, a systems change advisor. From university studies in computer science and education to breakthrough roles in energy innovation, they share how curiosity, skill-building, and seizing the right opportunities led them to the forefront of AI and Big Data in South Africa’s energy sector.
In this episode, we explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data are transforming South Africa’s energy landscape, from how we forecast and manage electricity to how we create smarter, more inclusive energy systems. These technologies are no longer the future, they’re shaping the decisions we make right now.
Zukisani George from De Aar, Northern Cape, shares how he entered the renewable energy sector without a university degree. Introduced to solar through DLO Energy, he speaks on the power of skills development, youth training, and rural access to green jobs.Perfect for young South Africans asking:How can I work in energy without a degree?What solar training is available in South Africa?Where are the green job opportunities for youth?Topics include:• Skills-based paths into renewable energy• Solar training and rural empowerment• Youth roles in the just energy transition
Explore the inspiring career journeys of industry trailblazers Lisa Reynolds (Green Building Council SA) and Songo Didiza (Green Building Design Group). Discover the paths they took, the skills they mastered, and how they rose to lead in sustainable building and design
Unlock the Billion-Rand Green Building Secret! On EnergyConversations Ep 4, join Green Building Council CEO Lisa Reynolds & GreenBuilding Design Group Co-Founder Songo Didiza. Discover expert insights intosustainable construction, cutting-edge green design, and the lucrative futureof eco-development. Essential listening for industry pros!
In this episode of Entrepreneurs in Energy Conversations,we take you on the journey of securing a contract in theenergy sector – from CIPC registration to that game-changing Purchase Order.
Join host Thokozile Zambane as she sits downwith Barutile Unity Makofane, apowerhouse in supply chain and contract management, and the driving force behind Mmasikhirikhiri Trading Enterprise.
🎧 Our latest Energy Careers episode of the Energy Conversations Podcast is now LIVE! Join us as we chat with two leaders in South Africa’s energy sector:🔹 Matthew le Cordeur – Just Energy Transition Research Manager at Krutham 🔹 Michael Welile Mkhize – Head of Department at NERSAWe delve into their career journeys, key moments, and insights into leading in the evolving energy landscape.💡 This episode is packed with valuable perspectives on:⚡ Career pathways in energy ⚡ Skills for a transitioning electricity market ⚡ Opportunities in SA’s energy reform🔊 Tune in for inspiring stories about the energy shift!#EnergyCareers #EnergyConversations #PowerShift #JustEnergyTransition #NERSA #Krutham #CareersInEnergy #SouthAfricaEnergy #Podcast
In this episode, we explore a major turning point in our South Africa’s electricity sector: the transition from a centralized model to a more open, competitive market for the wholesale electricity market Joining us are two respected voices who’ve been closely following this evolution: Welile
Mkhize and Matthew le Cordeur.