People in Energy: Omolemo Maribe

Hailing from the Northern Cape, a region adorned with some of South Africa's largest solar photovoltaic (PV) sites, Omolemo’s childhood fascination with these energy giants shaped her future ambitions. “Seeing those projects grow up around me, I always thought that’s cool—I want to be part of these cool projects,” Omolemo recounts, and indeed she made it happen, landing her first role in the industry right in her backyard.

Omolemo began her professional journey working in Operations and Maintenance on one of the Northern Cape’s oldest solar plants. She then came across  JUWI's Graduate Program and saw an opportunity to broaden her skill set. This shift not only expanded her technical expertise but also deepened her understanding of project dynamics. “Working alongside seasoned engineers and managers, I learned the systematic approach required at various stages of a project,” she explains. It wasn't just about the nuts and bolts; it was about weaving the complex tapestry of inter-departmental collaboration to bring a project to fruition.

Among her notable contributions, Omolemo takes particular pride in her role within the Barberton PV project team. Tasked with ensuring the specifications and quantities of grid work materials, she faced the daunting challenge of differentiating nearly identical components. Her meticulous attention to detail and proactive communication were crucial in navigating these challenges. “I had to use every tool at my disposal, from single line diagrams to direct consultations with the construction and commissioning engineers,” she shares. Through this experience, she honed a critical skill all engineers value: precision.

Omolemo notes that people often see renewable energy as an unreliable power source that’s weather and time dependent. However, she notes that “with the advancements in innovative technology we can now store the produced energy for usage when there is a need”. She believes that more education in the space will help people embrace the energy transition. 

Reflecting on her experiences, Omolemo’s biggest takeaway is the importance of patience and attention to detail. For those just starting out, she advises, “Be patient with yourself; it’s okay not to know everything right away.” In a field as complex and evolving as renewable energy, giving oneself the grace to learn and grow is essential.

Despite significant strides in the industry, women remain underrepresented in engineering. Omolemo advocates for increased awareness and supportive measures to encourage more girls and young women to pursue STEM subjects. “Companies need to actively work to dismantle workplace barriers and biases, promoting diversity through equitable policies and opportunities for advancement,” she asserts.

For Omolemo, support has come from close to home—her family and friends have been her rock, instilling in her the confidence to push forward. “They always remind me: 'You can do this!' Their belief in me often exceeds my own,” she says, highlighting the power of a strong support network.

Omolemo Maribe's rise in the renewable energy sector, highlighted by her recent promotion to Junior Electrical Engineer, showcases more than her personal success. It highlights how renewable energy can shape a sustainable future. Her journey, marked by passion, resilience, and an ongoing pursuit of knowledge, lights the way for future engineers.