Growing up in the Eastern Cape, Eniswa Kandzi, an engineer in training at Lesedi Energy Engineering, developed an early interest in electricity. This interest now drives her work in renewable energy, where she helps design solar systems that power homes and industries across South Africa.

After completing matric at Phumlani Senior Secondary School in Vaalbank village, Ladyfrere in the Eastern Cape, she earned both a diploma and a BTech degree in electrical engineering at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in the Western Cape. But it was a desire to explore power systems beyond the conventional that brought her to the North-West University (NWU) in 2023.

“At the Potchefstroom campus, I pursued postgraduate studies in nuclear engineering,” she says. “I wanted to investigate large-scale, sustainable and advanced energy solutions.”

The decision to switch from electrical to nuclear engineering was well thought-through. “By combining my grasp of electrical systems with nuclear engineering, I gained a better understanding of long-term sustainability, safety and efficiency in power generation.”

That understanding has been beneficial in the renewable energy field, too, where Eniswa now works. She is part of a solar design team. “My role is planning, creating and optimising solar systems to satisfy the client's energy requirements while guaranteeing efficiency, safety and adherence to industry standards,” she explains.

Her work includes site evaluations, energy usage analysis, component selection, electrical layout and ensuring compliance with International Electrotechnical Commission and South African National Standards requirements.

Eniswa reflects on how her time at the NWU shaped her: “I gained a solid academic basis and useful abilities in energy systems, project design and problem-solving. I was equipped to confidently handle the technical, environmental and financial challenges of the renewable energy sector.”

To young women who may want to follow in her footsteps, she offers this message: “Do not let preconceptions limit you. Have faith in your abilities. Your thoughts and

abilities can make a significant difference in the energy and engineering sectors. Stay inquisitive, work hard, seek mentors and do not be afraid to take up space.”

NWU alumnus Eniswa Kandzi charts a course from rural roots to designing energy systems for a sustainable tomorrow.