Corné Niemandt
Occupation and Company: Bios Diversitas Consultants (Pty) Ltd
Membership Duration: Since 2018
Serving on the IAIAsa committee since 2022 has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my professional journey. Over this period, I have had the privilege of serving as treasurer, president, and conference co-chair—roles that gave me a deep appreciation for the responsibility, teamwork, and commitment needed to keep a professional association strong, relevant, and member-focused.
As treasurer, I saw how essential sound financial stewardship is to the sustainability of the organisation. As president, I experienced the importance of strategic leadership, collaboration, and service. As conference co-chair, I had the opportunity to help shape one of the most important spaces for knowledge-sharing, networking, and professional connection in our field. These roles taught me that success is not only measured in major milestones, but also in the steady, behind-the-scenes work that keeps the organisation credible, responsive, and valuable to its members.
One of the highlights of my journey was attending the IAIA24 international conference in Dublin, Ireland. Being part of the IAIA conference, under the theme Impact Assessment for a Just Transformation, reminded me that the work we do in South Africa forms part of a much bigger global conversation. It was an inspiring experience to learn from international peers, exchange ideas, and return home with a renewed sense of purpose and possibility for our profession.
Looking back, I am proud of the role I have played in supporting good governance, strengthening collaboration, and helping create opportunities for members to learn, connect, and contribute. That is why I would encourage members to join the committee. Serving on the committee is a chance to give back to the profession, help shape the future direction of IAIAsa, develop leadership skills, and build meaningful relationships across the sector. It is also a unique opportunity to grow both personally and professionally while contributing to a platform that supports learning, professional development, and the advancement of impact assessment practice.
My experience has shown me that you do not need to have all the answers before stepping forward to serve. What matters most is a willingness to contribute, to learn, and to help create a professional home where others can also thrive. For me, serving on the IAIAsa committee has been a deeply meaningful experience, and I would wholeheartedly encourage others to become part of that journey.
Bathabile Mthembu
Occupation and Company: Eskom
Membership Duration: Since 2016
Being a member of the IAIAsa National Executive Committee (NEC) has allowed me to reconnect and collaborate with former colleagues and industry experts, which has helped expand my professional network and enhance my skills and knowledge. The experience has also provided valuable insights into the evolving challenges and opportunities within the environmental sector. IAIAsa is a phenomenal platform for environmental specialists across all disciplines and has continued to shape and strengthen the Integrated Environmental Management (IEM) space. Keeping abreast with the ever-changing environmental landscape requires collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strong professional networks, and IAIAsa provides exactly that. I would encourage students and young professionals to become involved in organisations such as IAIAsa. Active participation not only contributes to professional growth but also provides a platform to learn from experienced practitioners, engage in meaningful dialogue, and help shape the future of environmental practice.
Mohamed Vawda
Occupation and Company: Jones & Wagener
Membership Duration: Since 2020
I will remember my time serving as the Treasurer on the IAIAsa National Executive Committee (NEC) with fondness. I adopted the role with no prior experience of financial management or organisational governance. However, the support and encouragement provided by the NEC and office staff was valuable in guiding me through the challenges of the role. During my 2 year tenure, I gained many useful skills that have allowed me to develop as a professional. Most importantly, the role has exposed me to a diversity of brilliant people, all of whom who strive to make a difference in our field and who have been flag bearers of the organisation. “We stand on the shoulders of giants.”
Greg Beyers
Occupation and Company: Environmental Scientist, Greenviro Management
Membership Duration: Since 2004
IAIAsa has provided numerous networking opportunities over the years and continues to provide a neutral platform for the environmental industry specialists and EAPs to interact and exchange ideas. A major advantage of membership includes being kept up to date on legal developments and also environmental case law precedents. The Association remains in contact with all the relevant authorities and this provides insight and collaboration on any guidelines and legislation updates. Not only do you earn CPD points but I would recommend anyone in the environmental industry to join the association and enjoy the benefits of one of the oldest voluntary associations in the country.
Monique Sham
Occupation and Company: Environmental Assessment Practitioner Independent
Membership Duration: Since 2005
My journey with IAIAsa has been nothing short of transformative. Before I joined the NEC in 2019, I was already reaping the benefits of the association’s updates and events. But taking on a role within the NEC, especially landing the Presidency portfolio, was a game-changer for my career. It wasn’t just about the title; it was about the doors it opened. I found myself at the IAIA Conference in Vancouver, soaking in global perspectives, and back home, leading our Climate Change Symposium in Cape Town in 2022, where I had the unique opportunity to meet and introduce the Mayor of Cape Town. These moments weren’t just highlights; they were pivotal learning experiences that pushed my boundaries far beyond my day-to-day work as an EAP. Along this journey, I’ve met some incredible people, mentors, and friends who’ve taught me invaluable lessons, both professionally and personally. IAIAsa hasn’t just been a part of my career path; it’s been a key driver in shaping the professional I am today.
Andrew Woghiren
Occupation and Company: Founder and Managing Director, Sustainable Insights (Pty) Ltd
Membership Duration: Since 2007
IAIAsa’s events have helped me to keep abreast with various trends and challenges facing the environmental management sector. I value them as opportunities to learn and contribute to shaping the industry. My NEC role (Continuous Professional Development and Training) has shaped the understanding of IEM in practice as well as the role of EAPs in EIAs, etc. Professionally, I have met and interacted with other influencers and former colleagues and broadened my network and skills set. I attended my first IAIAsa Conference in 2007; since then, I have participated whenever possible. I would encourage those involved in the environmental sector to do the same, as it offers so much for professionals, lobbyists, enthusiasts, public officials, policy-makers, financiers, consultants, etc.The past 2 years have given me opportunities to grow in patience, humility and a deeper understanding of how the association functions. I am quite happy to have contributed to making CPD and Training a reality at IAIAsa.
Tlhoeli Hokinyane
Membership Duration: Since 2023
Serving as the Student Representative on the IAIAsa National Executive Committee (NEC) enhanced my understanding of governance processes within professional bodies and reaffirmed the importance of inclusive and intergenerational participation in environmental decision-making. The experience underscored the value of creating structured platforms for youth voices within environmental governance and assessment processes. During my tenure on the NEC, I represented student interests in NEC deliberations and contributed to discussions aimed at strengthening student participation within IAIAsa structures. A key highlight of the term was involvement in the EAPASA Youth Dialogue, which created an important platform for engagement between emerging practitioners and regulatory leadership. The dialogue fostered meaningful conversations around professional registration, career pathways, transformation within the sector, and the evolving expectations placed on young EAPs.
Austin Sharkey
Occupation and Company: Candidate Environmental Assessment Practitioner, Solis-Environmental Consultants
Membership Duration: Since 2019
IAIAsa has been an enormous help to my development in the industry in both a personal and professional capacity. IAIAsa has afforded me several opportunities in the form of webinars, workshops and conferences that has helped to build my skills and knowledge in the IEM sector. I have also had the opportunity as a young professional to network and meet several important people in the industry through IAIAsa and met my now employer. IAIAsa has therefore been directly involved in helping me secure employment through the various networking at IAIAsa events. The knowledge gained through IAIAsa has assisted me in being much more prepared for the working world post university. I have gained confidence in my public speaking skills as I have had the opportunity to speak at IAIAsa conferences and events. I would highly recommend joining IAIAsa to all students and Young Professionals to help get an edge above the rest in the industry.
Alaika Seepye
Membership Duration: Since 2022
As a second-year undergraduate, in 2022, I held the position of memberships and marketing coordinator on the IAIAsa KZN Student Branch Committee. I was then the Chairperson in 2023, whilst completing the final year of my undergrad. My roles and responsibilities allowed me to learn how to multitask, become confident in myself, lead a committee, become a team player, plan and host events I never thought I was capable of doing, make important decisions, develop formal relations, and much more. As an environmental student, without IAIAsa, I would have never known how find my niche within the field. I would highly recommend all students, young and senior professionals to join the IAIAsa organization, as it delivers excellence in return. From educational, eventful and interactive environmental webinars and seminars that are based on IEM, EIA, etc., to outstanding networking opportunities, making self and professional growth easier by broadening your knowledge about the IEM field.
Dimpho R Khanye
Membership Duration: Since 2023
IAIAsa significantly contributed to my professional development as a student member by fostering an awareness of environmental stewardship. In 2023, a volunteer initiative aimed at cleaning Naval Hill in Bloemfontein was conducted, although I regrettably could not participate due to unforeseen circumstances. Engaging in various workshops, for example, the workshop hosted at the Geography building in 2023 provided valuable insights and information about the environment. IAIAsa offers complimentary or discounted events, presenting a distinct advantage for students, thus I highly recommend participation.
Nelisa Nxumalo
Occupation and Company: Intern Environmental Consultant, Sazi Environmental Consultant (SAZI)
Membership Duration: Since 2023
I am immensely thankful for my membership with IAIAsa, a catalyst in my journey from recent Honours graduate to intern in environmental consulting. As a student, being part of IAIAsa provided me with invaluable insights into the world of environmental science. The opportunities for learning and networking through online events have been instrumental in enhancing my understanding of the field. The diverse range of perspectives and experiences shared by professionals in the association have broadened my knowledge. I am grateful and I wholeheartedly recommend joining IAIAsa. The wealth of resources, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to connect with experts in the field are unparalleled.
Pawu Mqingwana
Occupation and Company: Graduate Program at Standard Bank
Membership Duration: Since 2022
Joining the IAIAsa Western Cape student branch has been such a great value added to my experience for preparing for the future. I have engaged with brilliant people trying to segment themselves into the world and make a positive change.
Joining the committee gives you an opportunity to find opportunities and people who would propel you in your career journey. Through the events we were able to host I got to engage with inspiring people who want to assist in the objective of the organisation which is to assist students who are looking to make the transition into the world of work.
Lebogang Nkgudi
Occupation and Company: Environmental Management, Planning and Approvals intern at SLR Consulting
Membership Duration: Since 2022
Serving as the vice chairperson for our committee has been an immensely rewarding experience. Collaborating with fellow members in this committee has allowed me to contribute to our shared goal effectively — to bridge the gap between students and the professional industry. We had the opportunity to host various events that aimed to provide insight on the environmental industry by providing a platform for students to engage with a diverse range of professionals within the industry.
This role has not only honed my leadership skills but has also acted as an aid in developing my communication, adaptability and organizational skills. It also provided me with the platform to network with various professionals in the environmental industry. Drawing from this experience , I am proud to have been part of a team where collaboration, dedication, and shared achievements created a strong sense of unity and accomplishment.
Seemole Sergio Shika
Membership Duration: Since 2022
In reflection of my term as the Events Coordinator for the IAIAsa Western Cape Student Branch, I am delighted by the successful events we organized which were aimed at bridging the gap between students and industry professionals, these events assisted many students in better understanding the environmental science job market. My highlights include the UMVOTO job shadowing opportunity which provided me with invaluable insight into the environmental science workspace and helped build my professional network. Another highlight was the “Are there jobs in the environmental sector?” virtual event as the presenters were from different aspects of environmental science, had different backgrounds and journeys which elevated the relatability of the event and reached a bigger audience.
Being part of the committee allowed me to liaise and network with many industry professionals, put into good use my leadership, communication and organizational skills. It has been a great privilege and honor serving the IAIAsa Western Cape Student Branch.
Allison Hendricks
Occupation and Company: Clearer Conscience Environmental Services
Membership Duration: Since February 2023
As one of the Events Coordinators for the IAIAsa Western Cape Student Branch, I had the privilege of serving with fellow committee members by orchestrating a series of engaging events throughout my term.
Our events ranged from masterclass workshops to panel discussions, as a way of catering to the interests and needs of our student members.
Being on the committee allowed me to network with like-minded individuals, academic institutions, and industry professionals. These collaborations not only enriched our events but also expanded our reach and fostered a sense of community within the branch. I have gained invaluable insights about the environmental sector and I am confident that I able to utilize them in my professional career.
Hope Essa Mapindani
Membership Duration: Since 2023
Working as a secretary for the IAIAsa WC student branch has profoundly enriched both my professional skills and personal satisfaction. Coordinating schedules, managing communications, and organizing events not only sharpen my organizational abilities but also deepen my understanding of the environmental sector. Through my role, I have gained invaluable insights into the intricate workings of environmental initiatives, witnessing firsthand the passion and dedication of my follow committee members.
This experience has not only enhanced my professional growth but has also instilled in me a profound sense of purpose, knowing that my contributions directly support efforts to safeguard our planet for future generations. I would strongly recommend this role to anyone who is a good team player, has excellent communication and time management skills.