Next Generation at Mining Indaba

NextGen: Shaping the future of Africa

At Mining Indaba 2026, NextGen initiatives were designed to empower young minds by fostering collaboration, mentorship, and interaction between industry stakeholders, young professionals, and higher education institutions. This platform offered the tools, skills, and knowledge needed for the next generation to thrive and innovate in the mining sector. The Mining Indaba 2026 theme, “Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships,” calls for a united front to drive transformation across Africa’s mining sector.

As Africa's mining industry increasingly seeks sustainable solutions, the young leaders of today will be the driving force behind the region's economic growth and development. By nurturing their talent and providing them with the necessary resources, we can ensure that the African mining sector not only thrives but also does so in a responsible, sustainable, and dynamic manner.

Interested in taking part in 2027? Register your interest today and receive the latest event updates.

MI26 Influencers: A Movement of Progress

Mining Indaba launched its first-ever MI26 Influencer Campaign — a bold and purpose-driven initiative designed to amplify authentic voices shaping the future of mining in Africa. Rooted in the belief that storytelling drives transformation, this campaign aims to bridge the gap between the mining industry and younger, tech-savvy audiences by showcasing stories of innovation, sustainability, and impact across the mining value chain.

The MI26 Influencer Campaign was a strategic extension of Mining Indaba 2026’s theme: “Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships.” By collaborating with influential mining professionals and changemakers, the initiative brought visibility to the often-overlooked human stories behind mining, particularly those of women, youth, and emerging community leaders.

Through this movement, Mining Indaba is no longer just speaking about young people — it’s speaking with them. This is a platform for real dialogue, real stories, and real change - It is a movement of progress.

The MI26 Influencer Campaign represented a shift in how the sector builds trust, drives relevance, and empowers the future leaders of African mining. One built on the belief that when industry giants and emerging voices come together, true transformation is not only possible, but also unstoppable.

Meet the Minds Shaping Mining Indaba 2027

Nomvula Mahlangu

Mining Engineer

AfriMine Projects & Relations

Katlego Letsoalo

Macro and Commodity Outlook Manager

Valterra Platinum

Kudakwashe Chikovo

Founder

Earthsafe MineTrace Mastercard Foundation

Murendeni Makhado

Corporate Water Specialist

Implats

Testimonials

Prof Nikki Wagner DSTI-NRF CIMERA

“The sizes of the Disruptive and Sustainability venues were really good, the sound was great. It was handy having then adjacent. The ease of moving around MI25 has greatly improved (and ensured we reached our daily step target ;) ).”

Peace Zowa University of the Witwatersrand

“Creating spaces like this for young professionals to engage, learn, and share perspectives is invaluable in ensuring a stronger, more inclusive mining future.”

Khetani Tom Ramphabana University of Venda

“Speaking at Mining Indaba was the highlight of my experience, I got to learn and speak to a crowd of highly experienced people which instilled more confidence in me for future opportunities. I was happy to see people from different countries and jobs coming together. Ministers, business leaders, investors, and experts shared their knowledge and ideas for the future. Our conversations were meaningful and looked to the future of Africa.”

Phumudzo Munyai University of Venda

“This experience was invaluable, and I'm deeply thankful for the trust you placed in me. This opened doors of collaborations with many institutions and companies.”

Thabo Kgarabjang University of Limpopo

“The Mining Indaba 2025 lived up to its promise of engaging topics, extensive networking opportunities, and discussions that continue to shape the mining landscape. It is such a great opportunity to connect with potential employers, collaborators, and mentors alike. I have met with and exchanged contacts with some of the most prominent figures the mining industry has to give. Some approached me after the discussion to ask for contact details with prospects of future collaborations. In short, the event was a resounding success.”

Ronaldo Malapane University of Limpopo

“Overall, the Mining Indaba was filled with rollercoasters of joy, experience and insights on challenging topics involving the mining industry and the importance of research. Collaborations, research and engagement are key for the future if the industry of Africa is to have impact in the just energy transition.”

Merrily Tau University of Cape Town

“The great selection of stimulating and thought-provoking panel discussions, presentations, workshops, and exhibitions, which run concurrently, got me very conflicted as to how I spend my time. Very difficult decisions were made; I never wished I could be present at multiple places at the same time so badly! The platform also presents one with a rare and unmatched opportunity to network and mingle with industry leaders.”

Nthabeleng Ramotholo University of Kwazulu-Natal

“The exposure and networking opportunities with such a diverse range of industry and government representatives were invaluable, and I know this experience will significantly boost my professional profile.”

Join Us at Mining Indaba 2027

The premier meeting place for African and global mining leaders, it is all set to be an unmissable experience, shaping the future of African mining. Register your interest today and stay ahead in this dynamic industry!