George Olivier

Executive - Business Development

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Growing up in Thabazimbi, George wanted to become a fighter pilot, but after meeting Oom Koos Cronje, a previous General Manager of Thabazimbi Iron Ore Mine, decided to venture into mining engineering.

After graduating from the University of Pretoria in 1999, George began his career in the mining industry as an underground coal miner at Tshikondeni Colliery in South Africa’s Limpopo Province.

In 2008, George was part of the team that founded VBKOM.  He says that some of the most satisfying moments of his career is “Experiencing so many different projects and project teams, being able to see many mines in many different parts of South Africa and the African continent.  It is also very satisfying to mentor young colleagues that join VBKOM.”

George would love to meet Patrice Motsepe, and George says “He (Motsepe) has a skill to identify value.”

George is also a family man and has three “incredibly smart and cute children” with his wife, Christel.  Christel has been one of George’s biggest anchors, and one of his greatest influencers in achieving greatness.

Jani van Rensburg

Manager

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Jani van Rensburg, originally from Swakopmund, Namibia, moved to Pretoria at the age of 10 and has called the city home ever since. She holds a BCom in Financial Management from UNISA and a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification from PMI. Jani views mining as a "family business," being the third generation to work in the industry. She is particularly inspired by the practical, solution-oriented mindset and strong work ethic of those she encounters. Jani envisions herself continuing to collaborate with like-minded professionals in the mining sector. 

Jani thrives on challenges and loves connecting with people, especially when tackling big problems. Her favourite quote is, "Courageous convictions will drag the dream into existence," which reflects her approach to both work and life. Outside of her professional life, Jani enjoys gardening, spending time with her family, and appreciates good wine. She has a hidden talent for bread-making and is known for her fun-loving, free-spirited nature. 

Her favourite foods are French and Italian dishes. Jani’s family includes her husband, three kids, and two large dogs. She most resonates with VBKOM’s value of "Having fun, seriously!" 

Dr Tsietsi Moremi

Business Development Manager

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Growing up in Mamelodi and Soshanguve, Tsietsi originally dreamed of becoming a medical doctor or a pilot. However, after hearing the late Mr. Roberts—an Operations Management Lecturer—speak so passionately about Industrial Engineering, he was inspired to follow that path. His peers and co-workers affectionately call him “Superman” because he consistently gets things done.

Tsietsi earned his Industrial Engineering degree from Wits University, then a Technology Management degree from the University of Pretoria, and later completed his Master’s in Industrial Engineering at the University of Stellenbosch. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Industrial Engineering at the same institution.

Passionate about new technology and dedicated to coaching others, Tsietsi has transformed non-performing teams through effective mentoring and leadership. One of his most cherished compliments from a team member is that he is a great leader, an inspiration, and someone who can change a person’s perspective.

In addition to his professional achievements, Tsietsi has a hidden talent for cooking. He enjoys experimenting with new recipes on his wife and daughter, often humorously admitting, “I always try a new recipe, even if most of the time it ends in a disaster.” His favourite foods include Mala Mogodu (tripe), Chicken Licken’s hot wings, pork ribs, and potjiekos.

Lebohang Sekhokoane

Business Development Specialist

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Lebohang Sekhokoane—affectionately known as "Leby" by her loved ones—grew up in Randfontein. She holds a BSc in Mining Engineering and a Master of Management in Finance and Investment.

Passionate about the ever-evolving nature of mining projects, Lebohang finds great fulfilment in tackling industry challenges. One of her proudest achievements was having her research published by the International Society of Rock Mechanics, recognizing her contributions to the field.

Outside of work, she enjoys slow weekends, starting the day with a late brunch alongside her family. Whether relaxing by the pool with her son, watching documentaries or cartoons, she cherishes quality time with loved ones. A lover of diverse music, she also has a hidden talent for playing the clarinet.

As a Business Development Specialist, Lebohang is dedicated to driving progress in the mining industry. She resonates deeply with VBKOM’s value of walking with honour, ensuring integrity and excellence in everything she does.

Chantelle van der Walt

Senior Marketing Officer

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For as long as the Pretoria-born Chantelle can remember, she has always found joy in being creative in any way possible. She comes from a family that has found a very fine balance between technical and creative ability, and from a young age, she has always been encouraged to find creative solutions to anything that she might face.

Chantelle has an excellent memory, and she likes making associations with every piece of new information. Growing up, she wanted to become a software developer, but the coding languages felt too restricted to her. She then wanted to venture into graphic designing but did not like the fact that she had to stay ‘within’ the lines. Chantelle opted to study Communication at the North West University, where the diversity within the discipline left the door wide open to channel her creativity going forward in her career.

After completing her studies, Chantelle worked as a technical sales representative for a renewable energy firm but needed to find a greater creative release in her work life.  When reflecting on the progression of her career path, Chantelle shares, “I just know that I always wanted to be able to create.  I always wanted to be in the background where I can help someone else shine. At VBKOM, I have the opportunity to do exactly that within marketing.” 

After hours, she likes to relax at home with her husband, Jaco and their two Yorkies. They enjoy cooking together and spending time with a few great friends.

Sph'esihle Madondo

Junior Marketing Officer

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Sph'esihle—affectionately known as Sihle—is a dynamic marketing professional with a B.Com Hons in Marketing Management. Born in East London and raised in vibrant Pretoria, she cherishes the city's lively spirit, friendly people, and even the unique lingo of "Spitori."

Sihle embraced the field of marketing with enthusiasm, finding endless creative opportunities as she built her career. Her personal mantra, "Unfortunately, there will be no evidence that we tried our best if we don't make it, so work HARDER!" drives her to push boundaries and excel in every project.

Outside of work, Sihle loves restaurant-hopping with friends and is eager to try adventurous activities like bungee jumping. While she may not claim a hidden talent, her phone is always by her side, keeping her connected to friends, family, and the pulse of current affairs. And when it comes to food, a good beef stew with dumplings hits the spot!

Guided by the VBKOM value of Delivering Value with Pride, Sihle brings creativity, passion, and dedication to every project she undertakes.