The women who hosted the 2026 webinar are all mentored by women in the She is Forestry SA (SIFSA) network. They had this to say about their experiences:

Mfundo Ngcobo
Public Relations and Communication, NCT

Leads NCT’s communications, PR and corporate social responsibility work, and recently completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Development at Stellenbosch University.

“When SIFSA first approached me to share my story as a role model, I did not think of myself as particularly inspiring, simply as someone working hard and making the most of every opportunity. I believe that growth is never a solo journey and everyone has something to teach and something still to learn”

Nonkululeko Ntinga
Nurseries Manager, Mondi South Africa

A forester and the first black female student to win the Sir William Schlich Medal twice, now leading the production of high-quality clonal planting material at Mondi.

“The best mentors are those who continue to be mentored. Mentorship is not always about grand gestures; often it is about being present, opening doors, sharing wisdom, and believing in someone before they fully believe in themselves.”

Noxolo Kheswa
GIS Analyst, Mondi South Africa

A geographer turned data analyst who bridges environmental science and technology, and a 2026 Technical Excellence Award winner for Best Continuous Improvement Project.

“I am honoured to have a seat at the table to learn and grow alongside seasoned professional women, a platform where we can openly share our authentic journeys and learn from one another. My success is incomplete if the door shuts behind me. Mentoring is about creating inclusive spaces where the next generation of young women can also confidently claim their seat at the table.”

Dr Noxolo Ndlovu
Forest Research Scientist, NCT

Leads NCT’s Eucalyptus and Acacia mearnsii clonal tree improvement programme, having been supported by bursaries from her first year of study through to her PhD.

“Every hard thing I’ve pursued has been the direct result of watching a woman I admire do it first. I believe that being mentored allows us to learn from the wisdom and experience of those who have gone before us, while mentoring allows us to invest in the next generation. As is often said, those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”

Trudy Sebelebele
Forest Certification Manager, Sappi

Ensures that certified forestry plantations and supply chains meet the international sustainability standards set by the Forest Stewardship Council and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification.

“I believe curiosity and perspective are powerful tools for helping people and the planet thrive, and that individuals who are passionate about their work need to claim their space. I see She Is Forestry as a powerful platform to extend the reach of this message, inspiring the next generation through our Role Model videos and helping my generation grow into the next.”

Yoliswa Dlamini
Management Forester, Sappi Midlands

Leads silviculture operations for the Karkloof team, overseeing eight teams of around 145 contractor employees, and was SIFSA’s first role model.

“Mentorship is a two-way journey that fosters growth, inspires continuous learning and empowers individuals to achieve their full potential. It also teaches us to grow through others’ wisdom, while becoming”