#WomensMonth2023: Sinethemba Sidzatane - From washing dishes to CSIR facilities manager

Sinethemba Sidzatane's CSIR journey is an EPIC one of exponential growth and success. She started at the organisation as a sculler washing dishes. She was 21 years old at the time and it was here where she met her husband, got married, had children, grew academically and rose to the position of facilities manager at the CSIR International Convention Centre (ICC). Sinethemba is recognised as a phenomenal CSIR woman during this month and beyond.

Sinethemba joined the CSIR in 2002 as an intern from the Tshwane University of Technology, where she attained a National Diploma in food service management. "As part of my internship, I worked in the scullery washing dishes. I took pride in my job ensuring that food safety standards were adhered to," she said. Before the end of her internship, Sinethemba was approached by one of the managers and asked if she would consider a position as a receptionist. This request came after two employees resigned from the Marketing and Sales department. "My first response was 'I don't know how to use a computer', but the manager assured me that they would train me. I worked as a receptionist for two and a half years, excelled in my work and I loved it with all my heart," she responds with a smile.

Two and a half years later, Sinethemba became a banqueting supervisor, which was in line with her qualification - she held this position for five years. In 2010 when the ICC began expanding its structure and started a Facilities department, Sinethemba was, once again, encouraged to apply for another position as a facilities manager, which is her current role.

CSIR recognises people who have a desire to make a difference

Sinethemba's career highlights are many, but she maintains that the biggest highlight is working at an organisation that recognises hard workers and people who have a desire to make a difference. "I had very supportive managers and colleagues around me and I believe their support has helped me get to where I am today. I have assumed different positions in my career and all of them were a step up. This organisation has shown me in many ways how much it values its staff and I am proud to be part of it. Over the years, the CSIR has afforded me opportunities to acquire skills and gain extensive experience," she shares.

Given that she loves people, it's not surprising that Sinethemba was nominated by many of her colleagues to be featured during #WomensMonth2023. "I love people and I work with a very dedicated and enthusiastic team that does not need to be micromanaged. My team is responsible, self-reliant and motivated and, in between our busy work schedule, we still find the time to laugh and drink tea together. My leadership style is based on excellence and collaboration," she reveals.

The Facilities team won the SHEQ Award during the CSIR Excellence Awards ceremony in November 2022. Leading this team and being recognised for excellence is something that Sinethemba takes great pride in. "For our team, this award is a pat on the back and assures us that we are moving in the right direction. Being in a space where we are constantly under the spotlight in terms of ensuring event compliance and getting random inspector visits from the City of Tshwane is a huge responsibility and a lot of hard work," she explains.

Possibilities are endless for CSIR women

Sinethemba says that the possibilities for career growth for women at the CSIR are endless. "In my experience, there are many opportunities and initiatives, professional and personal, within our organisation. These opportunities include bursaries to further our studies, the career ladders for career growth and wellness programmes, just to mention a few. However, it is important to remember that with all this support offered by the organisation, the onus is on us to be dedicated and have an appetite for growth," Sinethemba points out.

What does Women's Month mean to Sinethemba? She says that it's all about celebrating achievements and more: "For me, it's a time celebrate achievements by women and the important roles we play in society. It's also important to look at what we have achieved and let those achievements inspire and motivate each other - by continuously doing this, we will always contribute positively to society."