Meet the maker: Annie Bekker

Wednesday, 5 May 2010

Dontbeapassenger recently interviewed Annie Bekker, following her appearance at the 2010 SciFest in Grahamstown, to find out more about one of the many people behind the Joule. We asked her a few short questions about the work she does at Optimal Energy:

1.    What is your area of involvement at Optimal Energy and to what extent did you make a contribution to the development of the Joule?

I am an Engineer in Mechanical Development, and I am responsible for Noise and Vibration.

2.    You’re a woman working in a field which is predominantly male dominated, which at times is probably not easy. What has been your inspiration to succeed (…not yet…) and penetrate into this industry?

Unwavering family support, passionate teachers, helpful classmates and a world filled with questions.

3.    Do you think South African women are given enough opportunities to explore those areas they’re passionate about and make careers out of those interests?

I have been granted more opportunities than my male peers in engineering (i.e. opportunities to speak at events encouraging women in Science and Engineering, travels to conferences, always being noticed) – I think the greatest obstacle for us as women is the role in which we limit ourselves – or perhaps, what the people around us let us believe about what is possible.

4.    You recently presented the Joule at the 2010 SciFest in Grahamstown. What was the overall response to the concept behind the car?

Acute interest and a desire for more conversation – especially around the batteries, the vehicle range and electric motor. Surprise at the scale of the Joule project and that the work is happening in South Africa.

5.    Everyone is always saying how proud they are to be South African. What makes you proud to be South African?

I am dumbstruck by our peaceful transition into the era post 1994 – it makes me believe that the heart of our country is as beautiful as the natural surrounds that we live in.

6.    If you could share one green tip – whether big or small – for dontbeapassenger what would it be?
Decide on a threshold of enough – it’s the best war on waste and makes decadent moments so much more enjoyable!

7.    What should people look forward to in the future that comes from Optimal Energy, and Annie Bekker?

I am looking forward to being a small gear in the drive towards the success of Joule – a darling of technology in Africa.

In the coming weeks we’ll be introducing you to more of the super talented and interesting people working on Joule so you can gain exclusive insight into the exciting project – so be sure to keep stopping by at dontbeapassenger!