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Vhonani Nemukondeni, referred to by her colleagues as Vhoni, worked her way up to becoming a Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) representative, championing safety with discipline and care. Her journey highlights the impact of dedicated individuals in promoting environmental sustainability and safety in the recycling sector. In 2010, Vhoni started her career in an entry-level role, developing skills, gaining confidence and establishing rapport along the way. Through sheer determination, commitment and capability, Vhoni was elected as a SHE representative, a role that involves representing employees on safety, health, and environmental matters in the workplace. “When I started my career in this largely male-dominated industry, it was quite a challenge as a woman to assert my authority with both customers and colleagues,” shares Vhonani. “I had to earn respect by working hard and adopt a solutions-driven approach to my work.” “Mpact Recycling has since empowered me to be more confident, by equipping me with knowledge and providing me with the skills I need,” she says. “I can now help other women create income opportunities for themselves and clean up their communities at the same time.” Vhoni notes that the waste sector has made good progress when it comes to gender mainstreaming. “I have seen a noticeable, shift in the equality and equal opportunity improvements that have been enacted by powerful women entering into, and dominating, this industry.” Mpact Recycling, where Vhoni works, collects approximately 600 000 tonnes of recyclables per annum which includes paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and cans. Through office and residential estate collection programmes, recycling awareness is raised and income opportunities created. “It is part of the company’s mission to develop practical, economically viable and environmentally sustainable solutions that bring us, and the world, closer to a true circular economy by integrating recovered materials back into manufacturing cycles,” states Vhoni. Vhoni’s role is significant as it ensures workplace safety compliance, hazard identification, and health and safety promotion. It acts as a bridge between employees and management to maintain a safe working environment according to South African Occupational Health and Safety regulations. Individuals in this role must be respected and trusted by their peers and have a strong commitment to improving workplace safety. “I have a responsibility to ensure that our customers and employees are safe at all times,” she explains. “My colleagues and suppliers respect the work I do because they see how important health, safety and sustainability is in the workplace.” In South Africa, SHE representatives are often expected to have a solid understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and related regulations, which are typically included in the basic SHE Representative course. Respected for her structure and heart, she’s an excellent leader who makes the effort to support and understand those whom she leads. Vhoni’s impact is reflected in her leadership role in safety and environmental management, contributing to Mpact Recycling’s broader mission of sustainable recycling and environmental stewardship. Against all odds, she’s making recycling HERstory every day. About Mpact Recycling Mpact Recycling is a leading collector of recyclable packaging (such as paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and cans) in South Africa. As a division of the Mpact Group, their branches provide a place to store, sort, and bale recyclable materials collected from both pre- and post-consumer sources. The company plays a crucial role in promoting the importance of recycling in Southern Africa, collecting on average 600 million kilograms of recyclables annually. Mpact Recycling has two head offices located in Thulisa Park and Germiston, respectively, and 15 operational branches spread across Gauteng, the North-West Province, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. For more information on Mpact Recycling, please visit
