Education makes way for Elias

Khanye Safety Officer, Elias Lerato Ndungwane

Originally from Kwaggafontein, Elias Lerato Ndungwane landed his first job as a security guard in Secunda immediately after completing his matric. Stationed at the entrance meant that he would interact with many colleagues and visitors daily. Unbeknownst to him, an encounter with Hennie Oosthuizen would change his life. “Whenever I saw Hennie, he constantly reminded me that I was too young to be where I was and that my peers were in school and making it big out there,” says Elias.   

Hennie's wise words inspired Elias to consider career opportunities in the mining and petrochemical sectors. He obtained his first safety qualification through the National Occupational Safety Association in 2011. Elias then secured his first job as a safety officer at Nova Plant Services, working at Sasol in Secunda. He never looked back.  

From managing a site in Secunda to working for several mines in the Northern Cape, Limpopo and the North West, Elias has built a career grounded in both field experience and education. “It takes a lot. You need to be committed, dedicated, and lastly, you need to love what you do,” he remarks.  He holds COMSOC 1 & 2 certificates and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Disaster and Safety Management from Lyceum College. Looking ahead, Elias hopes to pursue safety-related ISO certifications and deepen his technical knowledge.