Post: From Farm Machines to Forest Management

August 18, 2025

From Farm Machines to Forest Management

How a Girl from Rural Zululand Made Her Mark on Forestry

Yoliswa Dlamini didn’t choose forestry – it chose her. Growing up in Melmoth, a small town in Zululand, weekends and holidays as the oldest child meant following her forester father into the plantations. She learned to operate farm machinery and helped with harvesting operations while other kids were playing games. “Forestry became part of who I am before I even understood it was a career,” she says, attributing her passion for it to her late father, Gervas. “He was my greatest inspiration and guiding light, and his legacy continues to direct my path and purpose in this field.”

At 37, Yoliswa brings 15 years of industry expertise to her role as a Silviculture Forester. This is underpinned by a BSc, an MBA, and an impressive array of business qualifications – all earned while working full-time – and testament to her steadfast dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. But her impressive credentials don’t tell the whole story.

As the first woman in management at several plantations, Yoliswa faced significant challenges in this male-dominated industry. Her empathetic approach was mistaken for weakness, while her soft-spoken manner was perceived as lacking authority. And with deep-rooted cultural attitudes that challenge female leadership in operational roles, this led to periods of self-doubt during which she questioned her capability. “Yet, each experience shaped my growth and leadership journey,” she smiles.

The results speak for themselves. As Safety Manager at Sappi Highveld (2017–2019), Yoliswa led a team that recorded zero Lost Time Injuries, and since 2019, she’s also consistently delivered fully stocked compartments ahead of scheduled audits. The defining moment in her career came earlier, in 2012, however, when she independently managed disaster fires involving both ground and aerial teams. This was an intense challenge that earned her special recognition from Komatiland and Working on Fire.

Her work hasn’t gone unnoticed in the wider industry either. Forestry South Africa selected Yoliswa to represent women in forestry on behalf of Sappi through the ‘She Is Forestry’ campaign in 2023. Alongside her team, they also won the Environmental Award twice and the KZN Elite District Award. In 2024, Duzi Forestry Engineers invited her to speak on ‘Women in Leadership’, highlighting the importance of women who uplift others while advancing in corporate.“Each achievement reminds me that perseverance, passion, and purpose are the true roots of leadership,” she shares.

Driven by a desire to uplift and help others grow, Yoliswa says she finds inspiration in her roles as a mother, sister, and aunt. To her, Women’s Day affirms the power of sisterhood. “Fixing each other’s crowns, silently and gracefully, with a shared purpose and positive spirit, is a form of strength that inspires and empowers,” she continues. “And there’s nothing a woman cannot achieve when she sets her mind to it.”

Building on this belief, she reflects how the sector has evolved for women: “Leadership comes naturally to many women, and their multitasking abilities are truly a remarkable blessing. These qualities enable effective leadership that creates environments of respect, collaboration, and growth – what I call The Guide and Grace of the Feminine”.

“That said, we deeply value our male colleagues and subordinates,” Yoliswa emphasises. “Forestry is physically demanding and requires stamina, teamwork, and contributions from everyone, regardless of gender. Together, we build a stronger, more resilient industry.”

For women considering careers in the industry, Yoliswa advises that being a forester is just one of many rewarding paths available and that forestry offers a diverse and impactful range of opportunities. She also shares some tips that have guided and sustained her throughout her journey. In so doing, she hopes that it will inspire and equip others, especially young women, with values that cultivate resilience, leadership, and sisterhood:

Empowerment begins within.
Mentor and nurture one another.
Create opportunities for your sister to shine.
Remove obstacles and stand in her corner.
Encourage her to realise her full potential.
Understand what matters to her.
Lead by example – not words alone.
When given the baton, run your race fully.

As South Africa marks Women’s Day on 9^th August, Husqvarna South Africa honours professionals like Yoliswa Dlamini – women who have overcome numerous barriers to shape the industry’s future. Her story demonstrates that persistence and passion can flourish even in the toughest terrain, and may her journey continue to inspire women to step forward, lead boldly, and lift as they rise.

Husqvarna’s forestry and land care equipment can be viewed at your local dealer or visit https://www.husqvarna.com/za.