Nomathamsanqa Mlaba is a young woman with a clear sense of purpose and a growing passion for the maritime world. Her journey into the industry began with curiosity sparked during her application to Lawhill Maritime Centre. At the time, the maritime sector was largely unfamiliar to her. However, as she progressed through the selection process, exposure to maritime sports such as sailing opened her eyes to a world she had never imagined herself being part of. What started as uncertainty soon became deep interest, leading her to research the industry, its vast career opportunities and how her own strengths could align within it. That curiosity ultimately transformed into a vision for a future career at sea and beyond
Among the many maritime pathways available, Nomathamsanqa is particularly drawn to engineering, with a strong interest in naval architecture. This field appeals to her because it merges logic, creativity and problem solving in a tangible and impactful way. As she learned more about naval architecture, she became inspired by its role in designing vessels, improving performance and developing systems that support global trade. The opportunity to combine technical expertise with innovation and long-term impact is what excites her most. For Nomathamsanqa, naval architecture represents both challenge and purpose.
Looking ahead, she hopes to play a meaningful role in shaping South Africa’s maritime sector. With the country’s extensive coastline and strategic shipping routes, she believes there is enormous untapped potential. Her ambition is to contribute to a skilled, future-focused and inclusive industry, particularly by strengthening engineering and design capabilities. She is also passionate about representation and hopes her journey will inspire other young people – especially young women – to see themselves in maritime engineering. In the long term, she wants her work to support economic growth, uplift communities and help drive the evolution of the sector.
The area of the maritime industry that interests her most is engineering and design, as it forms the foundation of the entire maritime value chain. From safety and environmental sustainability to efficiency and trade costs, ship design influences nearly every aspect of maritime operations. Being part of the process where vessels are conceptualised and improved feels significant to her, as it directly impacts South Africa’s connection to global trade and economic activity.
Nomathamsanqa credits much of her clarity and confidence to the exposure she has received at Lawhill Maritime Centre. The programme has shaped her both academically and personally, offering opportunities many young people do not have access to. Through industry visits, engagement with professionals, practical sailing experiences and classroom learning grounded in real maritime operations, she has gained a realistic understanding of the sector. Lawhill has instilled discipline, responsibility and independence, while also affirming that she belongs in the maritime space. It has given her direction and strengthened her ambition.
Although she has not yet completed formal internships, Nomathamsanqa has participated in numerous industry visits, job-shadowing opportunities and professional engagements. These include exposure to organisations such as Transnet, SAMSA, Sandock Austral Shipyards, Maersk, SANParks, various sailing organisations and the South African Navy. Through these experiences, she has developed a practical understanding of how interconnected the maritime economy is – from safety and regulation to logistics and engineering. Each encounter has reinforced her interest and commitment to the field.
Staying motivated in a demanding learning environment comes from keeping her long-term goals in focus. Nomathamsanqa draws strength from her family’s support and belief in her potential, as well as from the strong support system at Lawhill. The culture of discipline, encouragement and shared ambition among peers, teachers and mentors helps her remain focused and driven.
To other pupils considering a maritime career, Nomathamsanqa offers simple but powerful advice: stay curious and open-minded. The maritime industry is vast and full of opportunities that are often overlooked. Curiosity allows you to explore unexpected interests, while openness helps you discover where your true strengths lie. With dedication, resilience and a willingness to learn, there is space in the maritime sector for many different talents – and great reward for those who commit to the journey.