From Gravel Roads to the Boardroom
Precious Chabane's journey from a loco operator at Valterra Platinum to Managing Director of SN Mining
There was a time when Precious Chabane's daily journey to survival meant walking long distances on hot gravel roads, barefoot, on a farm far from the resources most people take for granted. Today, she is the Managing Director of SN Mining. Between those two points lies a story that SSC Group is proud to share as part of its Women in Mining campaign . This is a story of a single mother's resilience, a daughter's determination, and a woman who built a company on the same ground where she once operated a locomotive.
A Foundation Forged in Hardship
Precious was raised by a single mother in a disadvantaged household, and the lessons of that upbringing have never left her. The hardship of those early years did not defeat her; it defined her. "Those difficult experiences inspired me to work hard, improve my life and change my circumstances," she says.
Her late mother remains her greatest reference point for strength. "She was my greatest source of support and played a significant role in shaping the woman I am today," Precious reflects, adding that her late husband's love and encouragement carried her through much of her journey as well. Their influence, she says, continues to push her forward.
"Those difficult experiences inspired me to work hard, improve my life and change my circumstances."
Finding Her Way Into Mining
Precious' entry into the industry was almost incidental. A local recruitment drive near Thabazimbi looking for women in the area. She applied, driven by passion rather than a long-laid plan, and the opportunity opened a door that would reshape her life.
She began her career at Valterra Platinum, moving through the ranks as a Loco Operator, Loco Team Supervisor, Communication Assistant and Safety Officer. Each role added another layer of skill and confidence, laying what she describes as "a strong foundation" for the entrepreneur she would eventually become. Alongside her operational experience, Precious pursued formal study in Safety Management and is currently completing a Bachelor of Applied Social Science degree. The safety qualification, she says, has been indispensable in business, teaching her to identify hazards, manage risk, comply with regulations and lead with sound judgement. "It has shown me that safety is not only a legal requirement," she explains, "it is a vital part of running a responsible and successful business."
Proving Her Place in a Male-Dominated Industry
Mining has historically been a male-dominated space, and Precious does not shy away from naming the assumptions and stereotypes she encountered as a woman entering it. "At times, people have underestimated my knowledge and abilities, simply because mining is traditionally viewed as a male-dominated industry," she says.
Her response was not to argue but to deliver. "I have learned to let my knowledge, professionalism and results speak for me," she says. "Competence, consistency and determination speak louder than stereotypes." Notably, self-doubt was never part of her story. "I never doubted whether I belonged in any room, role, or industry," she states plainly — a conviction she credits to her background, her sacrifices, and her faith.
"I have learned to let my knowledge, professionalism and results speak for me."
The Weight Behind the Wins
Behind the title of Managing Director are years of quiet sacrifice — sleepless nights spent studying, financial strain to fund her education, and the daily discipline of balancing business with raising four children: Jaiden, Jeanney, Jessica and Lefika. "I have learned that balancing my professional responsibilities with my personal life requires discipline, intentional planning and healthy boundaries," she says. "Balance is not always perfect, but I approach it with grace, flexibility and purpose."
When asked about her proudest achievement, Precious looks past the projects and the business growth to something less tangible. "I am even more proud of the strength, integrity and wisdom I developed along the way," she says. "It reminds me that no sacrifice was wasted, no challenge was meaningless." And when the long days test her resolve, it is her children who keep her going. "My kids are my greatest motivation to work even harder and rise above every situation."
Building a Legacy for the Women Who Follow
Precious has watched the mining industry shift during her career, with more women moving into technical, operational, leadership, procurement and entrepreneurial roles once reserved for men. She sees encouraging signs in the rise of women-owned mining businesses and growing mentorship opportunities, but she is equally clear that the work is not finished. "There is still more work to be done to ensure that women receive equal opportunities, respect, support and representation at every level."
It is a responsibility she carries deliberately as Managing Director of SN Mining, where she hopes to create jobs and bring quality solutions to the industry. Her definition of success extends well beyond her own achievements. "Being a woman in mining means creating opportunities and opening doors for the women who will come after me," she says. "It is more than a career, it is a responsibility, a source of pride, and proof that women can contribute, succeed and lead in every area of the industry."
Her Message to the Next Generation
For young women considering a future in mining, Precious' advice is grounded in preparation and self-belief. "Prepare yourself through education, continuous learning and practical experience," she says. "Find mentors, build strong professional relationships, ask questions, and enter every room with confidence. Challenges and stereotypes may arise, but never allow them to determine how you see yourself."
She draws strength from her faith, and often returns to Isaiah 40:31 as a personal anchor: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles." For Precious, the image of rising above the storm captures the essence of her own journey — from a farm road in Thabazimbi to the leadership of her own mining company, one deliberate step at a time.
"You belong in every room where decisions are made. Be courageous, remain authentic, and build a legacy that will inspire generations of women to follow."
Three words Precious uses to describe herself: Humble, Strong and Prayerful.
One word for her career journey so far: Perseverance.