Phakamisa employee scales new heights

With over 21 years of experience in transportation and logistics, Phakamisa Hard Rock Mining has flourished to become a leading contractor in the mining industry. 

Meaning “to lift up” in both isiZulu and isiXhosa, Phakamisa’s name is an integral part of their identity. Their business is indeed focused on earth-moving equipment and mining by-products, but in the process, Phakamisa seeks to uplift people too. 

The company’s vision is to uplift local communities by empowering people through job creation and training. Phakamisa continually encourages their employees to reach for new heights within the business. 

One such employee is Alex Mudau. Alex began working for Phakamisa on 16 March 2018, when the company still traded under the name Phakamisa Logistics. Initially, he was employed as a Code 14 truck driver stationed at one of the South African mines that Phakamisa serviced at the time. 

Shortly after joining the workforce, Alex was elected as a safety representative for his shift and was responsible for ensuring compliance to strict safety regulations. He diligently performed inspections and also assisted with diesel refuelling and operating dump trucks. 

Alex grew from strength to strength, which prompted his superiors, namely Gawie and Frikkie Vermaak (acting CEO and Chief Operating Officer respectively at the time), to notice his stellar work ethic. 

“We were starting a new project on another mine and I thought I was going to be driving trucks, but I was called into an urgent meeting where I was told I would be operating as Shift Foreman,” said Alex. “Both Gawie and Frikkie Vermaak gave me their blessing on this job promotion.” 

Working as Shift Foreman required Alex to adapt quickly to understand the role and the added responsibility. He only remained in this position for four months before he was promoted again to become a Senior Shift Foreman. 

“I’ve now been a Senior Shift Foreman for just over a year. I’ve had difficult times in this role and Gawie himself encouraged me to not give up and to keep my head up,” Alex confessed. “I wish to remain loyal to Phakamisa and grow with them going forward. I continue to give my best.” 

Phakamisa’s reputation amongst their satisfied customers is a testament to the reliability and quality of their workforce. Their service delivery aims to exceed expectations and achieve zero downtime.