Skip to contentSizeka Dtantyi
Managing Director
Linchpin Environmental Sustainability Solutions (Pty) Ltd
Meet the Changemaker: Sizeka Dtantyi, Pioneering Resource Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability Across South Africa
Discover how this eco-warrior is driving impactful change—read her inspiring journey and insights in our exclusive Q&A.
Sizeka is a Resource Efficiency Practitioner who has strong interests and is passionate about environmental sustainability. She has experience in implementing sustainable business practices and carbon foot printing. She has seven years’ experience in implementing environmental sustainability projects in various sectors across South Africa. She has conducted Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production and Life Cycle Management Assessments, waste, water, and energy audits in the FMCG-, Clothing and Textile, Foundry, Tannery and Leather -, and Hospitality and Tourism sectors. She has worked on South Africa’s baseline development for Eco-Industrial Parks and reviewed theG HG emissions performance guidelines prepared for DEFF in collaboration with GIZ. She is experienced in developing Resource Efficiency and carbon footprint tools. Sizeka holdsa Bachelor of Technology Degree in Chemical Engineering, and further trainings in environmental sustainability and energy management.
As a trailblazer in the energy sector, what do you believe are the most critical factors for achieving sustainable and inclusive energy solutions in our cities?
Building or improving enabling infrastructure to facilitate energy access to all cities; Addressing all physical infostructure-related issues on-grid and off-grid to ensure that sufficient energy is distributed to everyone.
Including local communities in the decision-making process is important to understand better the critical needs and challenges communities face in transitioning to sustainable energy solutions.
Set-up and operational costs of renewable energy solutions can be higher than what low-income consumers can afford.
Invest in local energy, and foster business opportunities between local municipalities and independent energy producers to eradicate energy poverty.
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in the energy sector and overcome gender-related barriers in their careers?
Always focus on what motivated you to be in the space. When the pressure builds up, the imposter syndrome pops up, and the tough times arise. Always look within and remember your “WHY” that will always keep you going in life. Remember some programmes support women to succeed, always seek those and make sure you are part of a community that aligns with your goals and career vision.
What does breaking barriers and bias mean to you?
Doing what you love, are passionate about, believe in, and vowed to provide without conforming to negativity and compromising your values and principles. Always rising above challenges, and delivering your best work even when the odds are against you, without ever compromising your integrity.
How has the way you have grown up influenced the woman you are today?
I grew up in a household where putting food on the table was the end goal. This motivated me to be resilient and fostered independence and a go-getter mindset. With an understanding that only I have the power to change my situation nobody else not even my parents are obligated to save me in life.
“The suffering you have endured does not compare to the glory that will be revealed in you”- Romans 8:18
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