Contracts Technical Supervisor in Building & Marine Infrastructure
First Female Commercial Diver on the Port of Durban | Rov Pilot | Kirby Morgan Hat Technician
Keynote Speaker - Inspiring Generations Divers
Career Coach - Overrall 20yrs of Working Experience
Roxanne Ross-Manikkam’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary—a true trailblazer in every sense of the word. As the first woman commercial diver at the Port of Durban, she shattered glass ceilings and made waves in an industry that has long been dominated by men. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and a fierce determination to succeed. From her early days captivated by the ocean to becoming a technical supervisor at Transnet, Roxanne's career has been a testament to the belief that no space is off-limits for women willing to break boundaries. Growing up, Roxanne’s love for the ocean was sparked by frequent family trips to the beach, where she developed a deep connection with the sea. This passion for water led her down an unconventional path—one that required her to dive into the deep end, both literally and figuratively. "Life throws you into deep waters," she reflects, "but you have to survive and not drown." This mantra would guide her through the challenges of entering a male-dominated field. Roxanne trained as a commercial diver at the Professional Diving Centre under the mentorship of experienced diver Grant Jameson. It was no easy journey. She faced gender biases and a culture that often doubted her ability simply because she was a woman. One male classmate constantly undermined her, questioning her competence at every turn. But Roxanne was not one to back down. She embraced her "Maverick Manikkam" mindset—a bold, unorthodox approach to life that allowed her to stand tall amidst adversity. Finishing second in her class, she silenced her critics, proving not only to them but to herself that she was more than capable of excelling in the deep, uncharted waters of commercial diving. "Never doubt yourself," she says, "keep pushing, and you'll surprise yourself."
Roxanne’s role as a Technical Supervisor at Transnet has her overseeing vital marine and building infrastructure projects, ensuring safety, quality, and operational excellence at the Port of Durban. Managing civil maintenance, contract budgets, safety protocols, and staff, she has become a pivotal figure in ensuring the port's seamless operations. Her career with Transnet has spanned over four years, and she’s built a reputation for being a formidable force, not just as a diver but as a leader who inspires others to think bigger and push boundaries.
Before her tenure at Transnet, Roxanne honed her leadership and management skills at Tsebo Solutions Group, where she worked as a Site Facilities Manager. Overseeing staff, managing contracts, and coordinating maintenance projects, Roxanne laid the foundation for her career in managing large-scale operations in high-pressure environments. Her work included everything from supervising security and cleaning teams to implementing cost-saving strategies and managing Gift of the Givers donations. Her meticulous attention to detail and ability to handle complex projects made her an invaluable asset.
But Roxanne’s path wasn’t without its setbacks. She recalls a difficult moment when she didn’t land a job she desperately wanted. At the time, it felt like a huge loss, but in hindsight, it was a pivotal moment in her journey. "What’s meant for you will never miss you," she reflects, realizing that the rejection was a setup for a bigger breakthrough. This turning point taught her that challenges aren’t roadblocks; they’re opportunities to grow and emerge stronger.
In addition to her professional triumphs, Roxanne's educational background is equally impressive. She holds credentials from the University of the Witwatersrand, adding academic prowess to her practical expertise. Her education, combined with her on-the-job experiences, has made her a well-rounded professional capable of tackling diverse challenges, whether on land or underwater.
Now, as a pioneering figure in a male-dominated field, Roxanne stands as an inspiration to young women everywhere. Her story speaks to the importance of resilience, risk-taking, and never allowing societal expectations to dictate one’s path. She firmly believes that life’s opportunities are limitless, and she encourages the next generation to take risks, stay humble, and never shy away from trying something new.
For any young woman looking to carve a space in a male-dominated industry, Roxanne’s advice is simple: "Dive in headfirst." The ocean may be vast, and the challenges may seem insurmountable, but Roxanne Ross-Manikkam is living proof that the depths of the ocean are no match for the depth of determination. The first female commercial diver at Durban’s port is not just making history—she’s making waves for the future of women in all fields. Dive in, and discover how far you can go.
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