Mandla Makhubela – Best Welder SAIW 2024 Welding Challenge

Mandla Makhubela: A Rising Star in Welding, Winner of the 2024 SAIW Welding Challenge

Mandla Makhubela, an exceptional welder from Bazil Technologies in Witbank, Mpumalanga, has won the prestigious Southern African Institute of Welding (SAIW) 2024 Welding Challenge. His journey to success has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and a strong passion for his craft, solidifying his reputation as one of the top welders in the region. Makhubela’s story reflects his commitment to excellence, from his early education to his career at Bazil Technologies, and now his remarkable achievement in a high-profile competition.

 Early life and education

Born in Swaziland and later growing up in the Mpumalanga region of South Africa, Makhubela’s journey to becoming a welder started from humble beginnings. He spent much of his early life helping his father, who worked in construction. This hands-on exposure to manual labour and engineering sparked his interest in fabrication and welding. His father’s work inspired him to pursue a path where he could develop his skills and make a lasting impact in the industry.

Makhubela began his formal education in Witbank and later attended TVET College in eMalahleni, where he pursued a course in fabrication. It was during his time at college that he realized his natural talent for welding. He earned a Certificate of Achievement, excelling in his studies and standing out among his peers. His instructors recognized his potential, which led him to pursue further training and opportunities in the welding industry.

“As someone who grew up helping my father in construction, I never imagined that I would be where I am today—winning the 2024 SAIW Welding Challenge. My journey from a small town in Mpumalanga to working at Bazil Technologies has been filled with hard work, determination, and the desire to constantly improve my skills.

“The competition was tough, but my focus and experience helped me pull through. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I look forward to continuing to grow in this field. My goal is to keep pushing the boundaries and one day lead large-scale projects, not just in South Africa but internationally.”

 Professional journey

After completing his studies, Makhubela secured an apprenticeship with Bazil Technologies, a prominent company involved in fabricating and welding large structures for the mining industry. The apprenticeship program at Bazil was rigorous, and Makhubela quickly learned that transitioning from a college environment to a professional setting came with significant challenges. However, his strong work ethic and determination enabled him to overcome the obstacles he faced.

During his apprenticeship, Makhubela worked on numerous large-scale projects, including the fabrication of structural steel components for coal mines. He gained hands-on experience working on mining equipment and underground structures, which sharpened his skills in both welding and fabrication. His exceptional performance did not go unnoticed—Basil, the owner of the company, personally monitored his progress and recognized his potential. This led to Makhubela being offered a full-time position at Bazil Technologies even before his apprenticeship ended, a rare honour that only a few apprentices receive.

In his current role, Makhubela has grown into an integral part of Bazil Technologies’ team. He not only works on major projects, such as scaffolding and platforms for power stations but also assists in training new apprentices. His promotion to the role of an instructor reflects his advanced skill set and the trust that the company places in him to pass on his expertise to others.

 Winning the 2024 SAIW welding challenge

Makhubela’s participation in the 2024 SAIW Welding Challenge marked a significant milestone in his career. Encouraged by his colleagues at Bazil Technologies, he entered the competition with high hopes but also acknowledged the formidable competition from welders across the country. The challenge tested the participants’ skills in various welding techniques, including working with materials such as aluminium, stainless steel, and structural steel.

Despite facing challenges with unfamiliar materials and equipment, particularly with aluminium welding, Makhubela excelled in the competition. His ability to remain focused under pressure, combined with his diverse skill set in welding and fabrication, helped him outperform his competitors. Makhubela noted that the competition not only tested his technical skills but also challenged him mentally, as he had to navigate unfamiliar environments and strict instructions.

Winning the SAIW Welding Challenge is a testament to Makhubela’s talent and hard work. The competition brought together welders from diverse backgrounds, and Makhubela’s victory has set him apart as a rising star in the industry. Reflecting on his win, he emphasized the importance of clear communication and strict adherence to instructions, qualities he believes are essential for success in welding.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Makhubela is determined to continue growing in his profession. He sees himself rising to higher positions within the industry, where he can take on more responsibilities and lead larger projects. His ambition is to work for a company that will allow him to further develop his skills and take on leadership roles in project management and welding technology. Makhubela’s ultimate goal is to establish himself as a top expert in welding, not only in South Africa but also on an international level.

Mandla Makhubela’s journey from a young boy helping his father in construction to becoming the winner of the 2024 SAIW Welding Challenge is an inspiring story of perseverance, talent, and dedication. His achievements serve as a reminder that with hard work and the right opportunities, anyone can rise to the top of their field.