*PRESS RELEASE
As South Africa and the world observed Workers’ Day on the first of May 2024, it is an opportune time to shine the light on the important roles and responsibilities of those who have progressed their skills from general workers to managers.
One such person is Fanyana Bikwa, the manager of deboning production at Beefmaster Group who has been at the company for 16 years. Beefmaster Group is the largest private employer in Kimberley.
His journey with the company began in 2008 as a general worker in the Deboning Department. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and skill, he was recognised as Employee of the Month, and swiftly rose through the ranks, earning a promotion to team leader. Building on his success, Fanyana advanced to a supervisory position in 2013, and in 2016, when he was appointed as the manager of deboning production, a role he has held with merit ever since.
Why is Fanyana special?
“His story is one of hope for the residents of this area and surrounds, who struggle with socio-economic challenges like poverty, sky-high unemployment, and substance abuse and teenage pregnancy, which impact the school dropout rate, and ultimately affect the youth’s chances of acquiring the right skills and finding employment,” explains Cindy Nkgoeng, HR manager at Beefmaster Group.
This is echoed by Fanyana, who says the scarcity of job opportunities steered him towards Beefmaster, a reality for countless South Africans, not only Kimberly residents.
“When I first started as a general worker, I observed the entire procedure in the processing plant, from the arrival of the animals to the stages of deboning and dispatching the meat; it was really interesting and I wanted to learn more.”
It was this interest in learning that opened the door for Beefmaster Group to support him with opportunities for professional development through training programs, mentorship and guidance.
“The company offered me a conducive work environment that fosters growth and advancement, enabling me to progress in my career effectively. Their support has been instrumental in helping me achieving a career above my aspirations.”
With support from Beefmaster Group, Fanyana has become a highly skilled employee, having undergone training in General Abattoir Practice, Production Technology, Generic Management at level 5, Computer Literacy, as well as additional short courses such as Food Safety Culture and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP), to name a few.
Today he oversees and manages 325 employees, ensures efficiency and quality control while effectively managing his team and scheduling production activities.
As part of his management style, he encourages open and transparent communication to ensure everyone feels heard and valued, as well as recognition for a job well done.
“I host regular team meetings that revolve around sharing clearly defined goals and values that all team members can rally around,” he says, adding that teamwork is valued at the company, as it teaches “one how to collaborate effectively.”
His advice to workers who want to do reach new heights in their jobs is to always give of one’s best.
“Remember that if you do well in your job, no matter your role, the positive impact goes beyond the workplace; it can have a significant impact on your home life and shape your family life dynamic as well,” says Fanyana.
Beefmaster Group has demonstrated strong commitment to upskilling its workforce, including women, in critical industry-related skills. In 2023, the Group invested over R4 million in training and people development initiatives, directly benefiting 233 individuals in the agricultural and industrial sectors of Christiana and Kimberley. This represents a substantial 230% increase in investment spending on training since 2022.
*PRESS RELEASE
Also read: Kry jou vleis vir die potjie by Beefmaster
