Every year the event brings mining companies and service providers together in a conference that aims to share best practice, encourage collaboration and offer opportunities to network.

In keeping with the theme, both the speakers and awards highlighted how purposeful and responsible mining, through collaboration, can create an environment that improves the lives of the communities and adds value to all stakeholders.

In addition to winning awards, Exxaro was well represented by Dolly Masilela, Mining Superintendent at Grootegeluk, who did a sterling job as Chairperson of the COALSAFE Committee.

Exxaro’s suppliers in being innovative and strategic in the way they understand and conduct adaptable businesses and partnerships. As a result, participants from 30 companies graduated with invaluable skills that combined selected accredited unit standards, with customised mining and Exxaro-specific content to maximise the impact and relevance for participants.

The programme could not have come at a better time, having been launched against the backdrop of COVID-19 and its devastating effects on small businesses. In 2020, the unemployment rate increased from 28.74% to 35.3%, translating to around 7.9 million unemployed people in South Africa.