Influencers

Sephela Makete Thema is an award-winning mining engineer and sustainability executive with more than 15 years of leadership experience across South Africa's mining sector. As Head of Operations at West Wits Mining, he provides strategic and operational leadership for the West Wits Basin Project and the development of Qala Shallows, South Africa's first new gold mine in over 15 years.

Having held senior leadership positions at Anglo American, Anglo Platinum, Sibanye-Stillwater, and Fraser Alexander, Makete has built a strong track record in operational excellence, mine development, risk management, and business performance.

A passionate advocate for youth inclusion, community participation, and sustainable mining, he actively contributes to industry development through various professional and leadership platforms. Makete holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand, as well as executive leadership qualifications from the University of Oxford and the University of Pretoria.