Digital Transformation in Mining Conference

BACKGROUND

In the world’s digital transformation journey, every day gathers more pace. Constant innovation is inevitable, now driving competitiveness among successful global companies.

What is also clear is the mining industry must understand where we are on the innovation curve. We need to develop strategies to leverage the most useful of the available initiatives.

This requires deep knowledge of the potential impact and value of digital technologies on mining and metallurgical processes. Planning at all levels of detail and the need for real time information management and operational control are all components of this journey, whether on surface or underground.
Data and information management, at the junction of virtual and real worlds, underlie efforts to stay in touch, take decisions, control and automate the industry’s processes.

WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE

Delegates will experience, within this conference:

• Keynote speakers, both local and global, who are at the forefront of their technical discipline
• Case studies and live stream feeds to global thought leadership
• Live demonstrations of state-of-the-art technologies, systems and practices
• Showcasing of digital technologies applied in real mining environments
• Networking with global leaders in this area
• Interactive discussions to address specific challenges
• A platform to discuss where we are headed

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this conference are to showcase global thought leadership in the use of digital technologies in mining and other industries, to understand the ‘art of the possible’, and to gain understanding of how advances in these technologies are being transferred into our industry.
Success for the Mining Industry lies in Collaboration, Open Innovation, and Knowledge Sharing. This event provides a timely and appropriate platform from which to engage and make an impact.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Delegates will learn where global best practice exists. Even better, how to transfer these practices into local operations. They will also learn how the challenges of change management have been addressed, and how people can be taken along this journey.
Presentations will inform on data collection, screening, transmission and analysis. The objective is real time decision making at the right level in the organization for proactive control before things go wrong.

programme

Download the preliminary programme

Keynote speakers

Sietse van der Woude,
Senior Executive: Modernisation and Safety, Minerals Council, South Africa

Sietse has a Master's degree in radiation physics. As Manager at the National Nuclear Regulator, he was responsible for the establishment of a regulatory framework for radiation protection in mining. He did his MBA with a focus on integrating sustainability issues into the strategy of businesses. He then joined Xstrata as a manager responsible for safety, health, environment, and quality.

In 2004 he was appointed as the Head of Safety and Sustainable Development in the Mineral Council (formerly Chamber of Mines) where he enjoyed being part of the mining industry's safety and health enhancement initiatives.

Since 2015 he serves as the Senior Executive: Modernisation and Safety and his purpose remains to help facilitate a people-centric modernisation of the mining industry.

Outside of work, Sietse always looks for opportunities to make a difference. Sietse also loves spending time with his 10-year-old son, Simo a name that is derived from the Isizulu word meaning ‘Miracle’.

Pontsho Mantlhakga,
Managing Director & Global Speaker, Leadersphere Institute

I am a leadership and organisational culture keynote speaker, trainer, and executive coach with a strong focus on the mining, construction, and automotive industries. My passion lies in helping organisations cultivate leaders who drive culture and strategy, ensuring that leadership is not just a role but a calling that transforms workplaces and industries.

With over seven years of experience in media relations, digital communications, and stakeholder engagement, I have developed a keen understanding of how leadership, communication, and culture intersect to influence success. My background in high-profile government roles—including serving as Assistant Director of Media Liaison at the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation and as Media Liaison Officer at The Presidency, Office of the Deputy President—has equipped me with invaluable expertise in crafting and executing strategic media plans, managing crisis communication, and navigating high-pressure environments.

My ability to lead and communicate effectively has made me a sought-after trainer and facilitator, particularly in industries that require strong leadership in complex operational landscapes. The mining and industrial sectors, in particular, face unique leadership challenges, from safety concerns to workforce motivation and regulatory compliance. Through my work, I empower leaders with the tools to foster a culture of resilience, accountability, and high performance, ensuring that businesses not only thrive but also create meaningful impact for their employees and stakeholders.

I believe that leadership is more than a title—it is a commitment to continuous growth, adaptability, and the ability to inspire others. This philosophy drives my approach as a speaker and trainer, where I combine industry-specific insights with engaging storytelling, real-world case studies, and interactive learning experiences. My keynote speeches and training sessions are designed to challenge conventional leadership mindsets, equip professionals with actionable strategies, and ignite a passion for excellence within teams and organisations.

My expertise extends beyond leadership development. I am also deeply involved in media and communications, leveraging my experience to help organisations shape their narratives, manage their reputations, and engage with stakeholders effectively. As an advocate for content regulation and classification, I am committed to fostering responsible and ethical media practices that align with organisational goals and societal values.

Academically, I hold a master’s degree in journalism from Tshwane University of Technology and currently serve on the advisory committee for the Department of Journalism and Integrated Communication at TUT. My dedication to excellence in communication and leadership was recognised in 2024 when I became a semi-finalist in the prestigious Speaker Factor competition, hosted by the Professional Speakers’ Association of Southern Africa (PSASA).

Through my work, I aim to inspire and develop leaders who understand that leadership is not about authority—it is about influence, purpose, and the ability to drive meaningful change. Whether in the boardroom, on the stage, or in the field, my mission remains the same: to cultivate leaders who create lasting impact in their industries and beyond.

Dr Sihe Nhleko, Director,
North West University _ Centre for Sustainable Mining

Sihe Nhleko is a highly accomplished Mining Engineer with over 15 years of extensive experience specialising in sustainable mining practices, mine design and planning, mine optimisation, asset management, and the application of artificial intelligence in mining operations. His diverse background spans production, mine design, planning, valuation, and fleet management optimisation, all aimed at developing practical, cost-effective, efficient, and safe mining solutions. Sihe’s expertise in machine learning, particularly in data analytics, predictive modelling, and decision-making algorithms, has significantly improved the accuracy of mine planning, equipment efficiency, and overall operational performance. He has successfully led numerous projects in open-pit and underground conventional and mechanised mining operations, showcasing his ability to deliver results-driven outcomes. A goal-oriented and results-driven professional, Sihe excels both individually and as part of a team. His proven track record in executing complex mining projects underscores his ability to work collaboratively and effectively, making him an asset in any mining endeavour.

Werner Swanepoel,
Senior Vice President – Digital, Sibanye-Stillwater

Werner leads digital transformation for Sibanye-Stillwater across the group. Prior to joining Sibanye-Stillwater he was a partner at Deloitte Africa. His combination of technical experience combined with large scale transformation programmes across various industries positions him well for the challenges associated with digital transformation. Werner is passionate about the role people play in successful transformation programs and creating value through augmenting people with technology.

Submit an Abstract

Abstract submissions are now open!

The Digital Transformation in Mining Organising Committee is inviting you to submit an abstract for presentation at the Digital Transformation in Mining 2025 conference. 

Why submit an abstract?

• Enhance your professional image
• Draw attention to the accomplishments of your company.
• Provide the industry with your case studies, knowledge, and experience.
• Inform colleagues, policymakers, and researchers about your progress.
• Provide fresh chances for cooperation for the benefit of the sector.

Submission process

Abstracts will be subject to peer review, the committee will decide whether to accept or decline the submissions. Relevance to the conference theme, accuracy and uniqueness of ideas, contribution significance, and presentation quality are among the selection factors. Download abstract submission template

Authors will be notified in writing of the acceptance of their abstract. Once accepted the author can submit a full paper for review. Download paper guidelines

 Please note

• All accepted abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings and presented during technical sessions
• All presenting authors are required to register, pay the author registration fee and attend the conference.

Key Dates

• 31 January 2025 Abstract Submission
• 10 March 2025 Submission of Papers

Please email abstracts to Gugu Charlie: Conferences and Events Coordinator, SAIMM at gugu@saimm.co.za

Abstracts Received

Download the abstracts received (PDF)

REGISTRATION FEES

Early bird registration valid until 25 March 2025

Kindly note, registration closes on 23 June 2025. Please note late registrations will incur a R500 administration fee for registrations received after the closing date.

Sponsorship

Download the Sponsorship Prospectus... (PDF)

Accommodation

Accommodation at the Glenburn Lodge is available as follows:
Garden Suite @ R1780 per single, per night, B&B
2-bedroom or 3-bedroom chalet @ R1430 per person single in a room, but sharing a house, B&B
(all the rooms have to be occupied to qualify for the rate)

To book, please contact below:
Lelanie Tester
reservations@glenburn.co.za l bushwillow@glenburn.co.za
011 668 1600/1629

Delegates must mention that they are attending the SAIMM conference

More About Accommodation

CONTACT

Gugu Charlie,
Conferences and Events Co-ordinator
011 538 0238
gugu@saimm.co.za