Mbali Mokwena — Founder & Managing Director
Mbali Mokwena is the founder and Managing Director of Imbally Coal Labs — one of South
Africa's few women-owned coal testing laboratories. With over 11 years of experience
as a Plant Metallurgist and Plant Manager, she built Imbally from the ground up in 2016
to serve the coal mining industry with rigorous, reliable testing and analysis.
A BSc graduate of Wits University and MBA holder from UNISA, Mbali's leadership
has created over 30 jobs and earned national recognition in business and entrepreneurship.
Mbali Mokwena, a remarkable figure in the mining and metallurgical fields, with over 11 years of experience embodies resilience, leadership, and philanthropy. At 34, Mbali has already achieved significant milestones, including her role as a Plant Metallurgist and Plant Manager, and now as the owner of Imbally Coal Laboratory in Ermelo, Mpumalanga.
She holds a BSc degree from Wits University and an MBA from UNISA. As one of the few women-owned coal laboratories in South Africa, Imbally stands as a testament to her pioneering spirit in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Mbali's dedication to her work is evident in her impressive achievements. Her technical skills in screening and crushing have notably extended the life of mining operations, saving numerous jobs. Her commitment to her staff and the community is equally profound. The establishment of her laboratory has created over 30 jobs, reflecting her belief in investing in people and providing opportunities.
In 2023, Mbali won 3rd place in the Nomzamo Mbatha Lighthouse Foundation Empowering Her Woman in Business Awards, an acknowledgment of her outstanding contributions and leadership. Despite the challenges of running a new business, she remains deeply involved in community support, demonstrating her dedication to making a difference.
Mbali sponsors art and culture events, supports students with educational supplies, and provides financial assistance for tertiary education and extracurricular activities.
Her compassion extends beyond her business. Mbali actively adopts and supports schoolchildren, assists struggling students, and prioritizes the training and development of young, inexperienced workers. Her actions are driven by a deep commitment to giving and uplifting those around.
