Ngwao provides local value at Thiess

Thiess Finance Graduate, Ngwao understands the importance of a diverse workforce.

 
From banking to diamond mining, Botswana local Ngwao transitioned out of his stable job with Botswana Savings Bank to follow his dream of working in the mining industry. Growing up in Botswana where diamonds formed part of the backdrop of everyday life, he always knew he wanted to work within the mining industry.
“There was such an emphasis on mining growing up, and I grew up knowing I would enter the industry. Botswana’s economy is driven by mining, so I feel proud to be able to contribute.”
The people diversity is what he loves most about living and working in Botswana and South Africa. “On average, an individual will speak more than five languages. You can be having a conversation with someone, and they will respond in around three different languages in one sentence, it’s wonderful.”
“It has been eye-opening working in a global business and interacting with people from across the globe. There is a lot of compromise and respect on both sides to meet each other halfway with time zone differences.
An advocate for self-growth, Ngwao says the best advice he has ever received was from Jamie Malycha, Mobile Plant Maintenance Planner at our Majwe Joint Venture operations.
“If you happen to be the smartest person in the room, know that you’re in the wrong room.”
“It’s priceless advice that I will take with me wherever I go”.
What do you love most about your team? What have you learnt?
My team is so supportive of me. I know that their genuine wish is for me to succeed and get better every day.
Describe yourself in three words?
Sociable, industrious and a big foodie.
As a self-proclaimed foodie, what is your favourite thing to eat?
We love our meat in Botswana because it is of such a high quality, and we aren’t big fans of vegetables.
A typical dish would be one with starch and generous portions of meat.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
I’m passionate about running. I try to run 10km every day. My goal this year is to run a half marathon!
Where do you hope your next rotation takes you?
I would love to join the team on-site. I think the experience gained on-site would be second to none, and I’d love to experience a rostered lifestyle.
We can’t wait to see what’s in store for you, Ngwao!