Phenyo Dantjie

Empowering Phenyo's engineering future

I’m Phenyo Dantjie, a 24-year-old engineering graduate from Robega, North West, working at Glencore’s Boshoek Smelter, where I’m actively shaping my future.

Growing up, I was fascinated by how things work and dreamed of a career in engineering. That dream crystalised in 2018 when Glencore awarded me a bursary to study Mechatronics Engineering at the University of Cape Town.

The role of junior engineer within Glencore’s Professionals in Training programme has been enriching; no two days are the same. I’m working on projects that challenge me, from finding solutions to day-to-day problems to implementing a machine learning project to enhance our efficiency in maintaining equipment.

Glencore’s support goes beyond technical training. I’ve gained soft skills too. My mentors and colleagues encourage me to think outside the box and provide guidance when I need it, allowing me autonomy as I grow and learn.

I’m determined to inspire young people to pursue STEM careers and follow their dreams, just as I am doing. I’m excited to see where my journey takes me.