Sunithi Barends – 2024 SAIW President’s Award for NDT
PASSION, DEDICATION AND INNOVATION IN NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING
Sunithi Barends, the 2024 recipient of the prestigious SAIW President’s Student Award for NDT, stands out as a stellar example of commitment, technical expertise, and industry leadership. Recognised by the South African Institute of Welding for her excellence in non-destructive testing (NDT), Sunithi’s career has been driven by a unique blend of technical skill and a deeply ingrained commitment to safety and quality assurance in the industry.
She comments, “Receiving the 2024 SAIW President’s Award for NDT is an incredible honour. My journey in NDT began with a passion for safety and quality, and over the years, it has grown through hands-on challenges and mentorship. I’m proud to be part of a community pushing the boundaries of non-destructive testing!”
Journey into non-destructive testing
Sunithi’s journey into NDT began with a fascination for the intersection of technology and safety. Early in her career, she was captivated by the integral role NDT plays in ensuring the integrity of structures, equipment, and materials without causing damage. The idea of contributing to safety in industrial environments was a driving force in her career choice. Over the years, her passion for NDT evolved as she faced hands-on challenges and continually learned to address each unique project demand.
Commitment to continuous learning and excellence
Sunithi’s commitment to excellence is evidenced by her recent achievements in professional development. In 2024, she completed both Ultrasonic Testing Level 2 and Visual Testing Level 2 certifications at SAIW, enhancing her technical capabilities and solidifying her expertise in the field.
Sunithi’s dedication also goes beyond personal advancement; she is an enthusiastic mentor who actively shares her knowledge, helping others understand the critical importance of quality assurance and safety in their work. Her sense of community and collaboration has transformed her initial interest into a lifelong passion for advancing NDT standards and practices.
Overcoming challenges and building resilience
Throughout her career, Sunithi has faced various challenges that have shaped her professional and personal growth. Balancing a demanding career with personal life required her to prioritise self-care and set boundaries. She also overcame self-doubt by seeking mentorship and guidance from experienced colleagues, who helped her build confidence and tackle new challenges with a growth mindset.
Adaptability was another key lesson in her journey. Faced with unexpected life changes, including job relocations and shifts in family dynamics, Sunithi learned to embrace change as an opportunity for growth..
Embracing collaboration and innovation
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Sunithi’s professional success. She values peer-to-peer networking as an essential tool for growth and often seeks to learn from the diverse perspectives of her colleagues. One significant collaborative experience was her work with Sasol Synfuels, where she received the support and resources needed to further her studies. This experience not only strengthened her professional relationships but also underscored the value of integrating different perspectives to drive progress. She extends her gratitude to the SAIW team for their role in fostering quality education and professionalism in the industry, which has been instrumental in her success.
Advice for aspiring professionals
As a recognised role model in the welding and NDT community, Sunithi offers useful advice to those looking to excel in this field:
- Invest in Education and Training – Pursue relevant certifications and training programs to build a strong foundation in welding and NDT techniques.
- Embrace Continuous Learning – The NDT field is ever-evolving, and a commitment to lifelong learning will ensure that you master new technologies and advancements in the field.
- Prioritise Quality and Safety – Reliability and integrity in work are paramount. Adhering to safety standards not only protects individuals but also builds a solid professional reputation.
- Cultivate Soft Skills – Effective communication and teamwork are essential for successful project outcomes. These skills enhance one’s ability to convey complex information and collaborate with others.
- Pursue Leadership Opportunities – Take initiative in projects and seek leadership roles. Developing these skills can prepare you for greater responsibilities and open doors to recognition.
- Stay Passionate and Curious – Let your passion drive you to explore new ideas and techniques. A curious mindset fosters innovation and sets you apart as a thought leader.
Sunithi Barends exemplifies the spirit of excellence and dedication that defines the SAIW President’s Award for NDT. As she continues to advance her career, she remains an inspiring figure for those aspiring to make meaningful contributions in the field of non-destructive testing.
