Nombasa Tsengwa on becoming CEO of Exxaro Resources

Dr. Nombasa Tsengwa has made history as the first woman to lead one of South Africa's largest black-owned mining companies, Exxaro Resources. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Tsengwa shared the challenges and triumphs she has faced since taking on the role of CEO. Tsengwa revealed that her transition to the top position at Exxaro was not without its complexities. Initially scheduled to take over in May 2023, she found herself thrust into the position earlier due to unexpected circumstances. This sudden change caught some within the organization off guard, leading to a period of adjustment both internally and externally. Despite the initial shock, Tsengwa remained steadfast in her commitment to the role she loves. However, she acknowledged that not everyone was immediately ready to accept her leadership. Some colleagues, particularly her immediate team in minerals, struggled to adapt to her new role as their boss. Tsengwa emphasized the importance of open dialogue and discussion, especially during Women's Month, as she navigated the shift from being a colleague to a leader. While Tsengwa noted that most stereotypes had been overcome during her 19 years with the company, she admitted that transitioning from a peer to a superior required patience and understanding. Developing a new strategy with her team proved to be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, as she brought her unique perspective and authority to the table. Despite the initial resistance, Tsengwa remained determined to lead her team forward and align them with her vision for the company's future. As she reflected on her journey to CEO, Tsengwa highlighted the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. She recognized that changing attitudes towards women's leadership would take time but remained optimistic about the progress being made. Tsengwa's story serves as a testament to the power of female leadership in traditionally male-dominated industries, inspiring future generations of women to pursue their dreams and break barriers in the corporate world.