Sipho and Nnene Xipu both completed their MBAs at the campus in Mahikeng, albeit at different times. They say the guidance from the academic staff, along with the MBA’s engaging nature and world-class content, was perfect for them. The couple graduated with MBAs in 2007 and 2014, respectively.

 

They are the majority owners of Triple M Mining, a company which mines for big mining players such as Impala Platinum, Lonmin Platinum, Royal Bafokeng Platinum, Harmony Gold and Bokone Platinum in Limpopo.

 

They started Triple M Mining with two other partners in 2002. They then went on to take over the running of the company, drawing on their backgrounds in education and human resources management. Sipho’s previous role as a senior human resources manager at Harmony Mines specifically came in very handy.

 

Empowering communities through mining

 

As the couple believe in uplifting communities through mining, they piloted the Afrihope Community Trust two years ago.

 

According to Nnene, the focus of this project is on empowering women in mining, using a skills audit programme.

 

Workers go from door to door gathering and capturing information about the local communities, including graduates and the skill levels of unemployed people. Mining companies can use this information in their recruitment initiatives and community development projects.

 

“I believe it will eliminate picketing and complaints from local communities about unemployment when they have mines right on their doorsteps,” says Nnene.

 

Why study an MBA?

 

The couple do not take their success for granted and know the value of ongoing education.

 

“It was a deliberate decision from us to study – we needed to plan for the future. Should it become necessary, we wanted the reassurance that we both have the same good-quality qualification to go places. I can tell you that was the best decision,” says Sipho.

 

Having come so far in their careers, Nnene offers some words of advice on behalf of the couple.

 

“Learn to be patient and considerate. If you are, you can achieve your heart’s desire. Patience has brought me to where I am today. Quick-fix solutions don’t help, the world doesn’t work like that.”