How a Girl from Rural Zululand Made Her Mark on Forestry<\/p>\n
Yoliswa Dlamini didn\u2019t choose forestry \u2013 it chose her. Growing up in Melmoth, a small town in Zululand, weekends and holidays as the oldest child meant following her forester father into the plantations. She learned to operate farm machinery and helped with harvesting operations while other kids were playing games. \u201cForestry became part of who I am before I even understood it was a career,\u201d she says, attributing her passion for it to her late father, Gervas. \u201cHe was my greatest inspiration and guiding light, and his legacy continues to direct my path and purpose in this field.\u201d<\/p>\n
At 37, Yoliswa brings 15 years of industry expertise to her role as a Silviculture Forester. This is underpinned by a BSc, an MBA, and an impressive array of business qualifications \u2013 all earned while working full-time \u2013 and testament to her steadfast dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. But her impressive credentials don\u2019t tell the whole story.<\/p>\n
As the first woman in management at several plantations, Yoliswa faced significant challenges in this male-dominated industry. Her empathetic approach was mistaken for weakness, while her soft-spoken manner was perceived as lacking authority. And with deep-rooted cultural attitudes that challenge female leadership in operational roles, this led to periods of self-doubt during which she questioned her capability. \u201cYet, each experience shaped my growth and leadership journey,\u201d she smiles.<\/p>\n
The results speak for themselves. As Safety Manager at Sappi Highveld (2017\u20132019), Yoliswa led a team that recorded zero Lost Time Injuries, and since 2019, she\u2019s also consistently delivered fully stocked compartments ahead of scheduled audits. The defining moment in her career came earlier, in 2012, however, when she independently managed disaster fires involving both ground and aerial teams. This was an intense challenge that earned her special recognition from Komatiland and Working on Fire.<\/p>\n
Her work hasn\u2019t gone unnoticed in the wider industry either. Forestry South Africa selected Yoliswa to represent women in forestry on behalf of Sappi through the \u2018She Is Forestry\u2019 campaign in 2023. Alongside her team, they also won the Environmental Award twice and the KZN Elite District Award. In 2024, Duzi Forestry Engineers invited her to speak on \u2018Women in Leadership\u2019, highlighting the importance of women who uplift others while advancing in corporate.\u201cEach achievement reminds me that perseverance, passion, and purpose are the true roots of leadership,\u201d she shares.<\/p>\n
Driven by a desire to uplift and help others grow, Yoliswa says she finds inspiration in her roles as a mother, sister, and aunt. To her, Women\u2019s Day affirms the power of sisterhood. \u201cFixing each other\u2019s crowns, silently and gracefully, with a shared purpose and positive spirit, is a form of strength that inspires and empowers,\u201d she continues. \u201cAnd there\u2019s nothing a woman cannot achieve when she sets her mind to it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Building on this belief, she reflects how the sector has evolved for women: \u201cLeadership comes naturally to many women, and their multitasking abilities are truly a remarkable blessing. These qualities enable effective leadership that creates environments of respect, collaboration, and growth \u2013 what I call The Guide and Grace of the Feminine\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat said, we deeply value our male colleagues and subordinates,\u201d Yoliswa emphasises. \u201cForestry is physically demanding and requires stamina, teamwork, and contributions from everyone, regardless of gender. Together, we build a stronger, more resilient industry.\u201d<\/p>\n
For women considering careers in the industry, Yoliswa advises that being a forester is just one of many rewarding paths available and that forestry offers a diverse and impactful range of opportunities. She also shares some tips that have guided and sustained her throughout her journey. In so doing, she hopes that it will inspire and equip others, especially young women, with values that cultivate resilience, leadership, and sisterhood:<\/p>\n
As South Africa marks Women\u2019s Day on 9th August, Husqvarna South Africa honours professionals like Yoliswa Dlamini \u2013 women who have overcome numerous barriers to shape the industry\u2019s future. Her story demonstrates that persistence and passion can flourish even in the toughest terrain, and may her journey continue to inspire women to step forward, lead boldly, and lift as they rise.<\/p>\n
Husqvarna\u2019s forestry and land care equipment can be viewed at your local dealer or visit https:\/\/www.husqvarna.com\/za.<\/p>\n