In celebration of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2025 on 23 June, global technology leader ABB is proud to profile one of its rising stars, Jashmika Samiksha Telukdarrie Associate Project Engineer in the Hoisting Department. Her story is one of determination, passion, and a commitment to driving meaningful impact in South Africa’s mining and engineering sectors.
Originally from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Jashmika earned her mechanical engineering degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal before embarking on a promising career that quickly accelerated. Joining ABB in January 2024 as a graduate engineer, she was promoted to Associate Project Engineer within just a year, a testament to her drive and the supportive environment fostered by ABB.
Jashmika plays a vital role in the design, problem-solving, and execution of mechanical hoisting systems used in underground mining, one of the most safety-critical components in the sector. “We design to strict safety standards, and beyond that, we engineer for efficiency. It is a constant balance, but safety can never be compromised,” she says.
While hoisting is a highly specialised field, Jashmika welcomed the challenge. “At university, you are exposed to a wide range of disciplines, but once in industry, you realise how many niche areas there are. I wanted to be part of something specialised and impactful.”
Jashmika is currently registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Candidate Engineer and is actively working toward her professional registration. ABB has been instrumental in this journey, providing technical mentorship programmes and guidance to help young professionals navigate the path to becoming fully registered engineers.
Her passion for engineering is deeply rooted in problem-solving and creativity. “There are always different ways to reach a solution, even with safety constraints. That freedom to innovate while making a tangible impact on communities through mining and infrastructure development, especially in a country like South Africa, is what excites me most.”
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, particularly in mining, Jashmika acknowledges the challenges. “On-site, you do not always get taken seriously at first. But once people hear you speak and see your knowledge, the dynamics start to change.” She emphasises the importance of confidence, curiosity, and knowing your worth, qualities she encourages all young women in STEM to embrace.
Speaking on this year’s INWED theme, #TogetherWeEngineer, Jashmika highlights the power of unity and inclusivity. “Women contribute just as much to the industry as our male counterparts. We bring unique perspectives and collaborative energy that enrich the work we do.”
Looking ahead, Jashmika has her sights set on a global role within ABB. With international exposure already under her belt, having travelled abroad twice for work, she is well on her way. “ABB takes collaboration seriously. Working with global teams has given me insight into different cultures, practices, and approaches. It’s been incredibly rewarding.”
Her advice to young girls considering a future in engineering is simple: “Believe in your abilities. Do not be afraid to take up space in technical conversations. Let stereotypes fuel your drive to succeed.” As ABB continues to champion diversity and inclusion across its operations, Jashmika’s story is a shining example of the transformative power of mentorship, opportunity, and engineering with purpose.
ENDS
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and more than 105,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com
ABB’s Process Automation business automates, electrifies and digitalizes industrial operations that address a wide range of essential needs – from supplying energy, water and materials, to producing goods and transporting them to market. With its ~20,000 employees, leading technology and service expertise, ABB Process Automation helps process, hybrid and maritime industries outrun – leaner and cleaner. go.abb/processautomation
For more information please contact:
Media Relations Issued by NGAGE Marketing on behalf of ABB
Martin Van Zyl Andile Mbethe
Phone: +27 10 202 5612 +27 (0)11 867 7763
Email : martin.van-zyl@za.abb.com Email : andile@ngage.co.za
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JashmikaSamikshaTelukdarrieAssociateProjectEngineerABB
