We are delighted to announce that Onicca Seleka, Production Foreman at Pandrol South Africa, has been named as one of the winners of IRJ magazine’s prestigious Women in Rail Awards 2026.
Every year, this industry leading magazine searches the rail industry across the world for the brightest and best female leaders and managers. These female leaders can become powerful advocates for change in their own workplace and can encourage senior managers to create a better organisational culture to accelerate transformation. The magazine commended all 14 Women in Rail Award winners who received this accolade, recognising the high standards of these outstanding individuals who are amongst the best in the industry. Well done Onicca!
IRJ magazine described how Onicca’s journey ‘reflects the resilience, technical excellence and forward-thinking leadership that is shaping the future of rail manufacturing. Starting her career in 2008 as an apprentice, she qualified as a millwright artisan in 2011 and developed valuable technical experience before steadily progressing into senior leadership roles. Onicca’s strong understanding of manufacturing operations, combined with her ability to motivate teams and maintain high standards, led to her promotion in September 2024 to become Pandrol’s first female production foreman in South Africa, managing a workforce of 29 employees.’
IRJ magazine goes on to explain how ‘Onicca successfully earned the trust and respect of her team, by encouraging collaboration and involving employees in decision-making, she improved team morale, strengthened cohesion and demonstrated that effective leadership is defined by competence, vision and integrity rather than gender. Her success has helped reshape workplace perceptions and inspired a more inclusive culture within the organisation.’
Dean Lincoln, MD of Pandrol South Africa says “We are extremely proud of Onicca’s achievements as a global award winner against such strong competition. Onicca is a really inspirational leader who has a very positive impact on the business and those who work with her. She has been with the business for 19 years, yet she is so passionate and professional at what she does and her enthusiasm is infectious!”
