How a Biochemistry Graduate and Former Pharmaceutical Sales Rep found Purpose in OHS
When Lolo Sithole began her professional journey, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) wasn’t even on her radar. With a solid academic foundation in biochemistry and microbiology, her early ambitions were rooted in science and healthcare fields that, at first glance, seemed worlds apart from safety audits, compliance checklists, and emergency preparedness plans. Her initial career steps led her into pharmaceutical sales, where she refined her communication skills and developed a keen understanding of the health system from a commercial perspective.
But in 2020, everything changed.
An unexpected opportunity arose at a leading fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company specialising in alcohol. The role wasn’t in sales or research—it was in Occupational Health and Safety (OHS). At first, it seemed like a detour. Yet, as Lolo stepped into the position, she quickly discovered how her scientific background gave her a unique edge in understanding workplace hazards, chemical safety, and health protocols. What began as a career pivot soon revealed itself as a calling. The more she immersed herself in the world of occupational safety, the more she realised the profound impact it had, not just on compliance, but on people’s lives.
That moment in 2020 didn’t just shift her career—it redefined her purpose
The Turning Point: Discovering a Passion for OHS
“When I joined Diageo, there was a gap in the compliance department,” she recalls. “They asked if I’d step in as a SHE Coordinator. I said yes – and that’s what introduced me to the world of safety.”
That six-month experience ignited a passion and a purpose. As she arranged internal safety training, Lolo came across SafetyCloud and enrolled in a first aid course.
“One thing I loved was how quick the turnaround was. You get your results immediately. I thought, wow – I want to keep going.”
Even when her contract ended, she kept studying. “I used my savings to enrol in more SafetyCloud courses – from legal liability and SHE rep training to SAMTRAC. That’s when I said, I’m not turning back.”
Purpose and Impact: Lolo Sithole’s Vision for OHS in the Workplace
Today, Lolo is a Fleet and Safety Supervisor at AB InBev, still learning and pushing herself. She’s also completing a postgraduate diploma in risk management through UNISA.
“I’ve stayed with NOSA because they make learning feel real. The facilitators motivate you. Even when it’s online, it feels like they’re in the room with you.”
She believes continuous learning is essential in OHS. “Safety never stands still. COVID showed us that. Regulations change all the time. If you stop learning, you fall behind.”
As a young woman in a male-dominated industry, Lolo has had to stand firm.
“You need a thick skin and qualifications to back you up. I have older men reporting to me, but I make sure I’m prepared. That’s how I earn respect.”
To young people considering a career in OHS, Lolo offers this advice: be proactive.
“Don’t think SAMTRAC alone will get you a high salary. It’s about work ethic, not entitlement. Use LinkedIn wisely. Follow safety pages. Watch webinars. Stay curious.”
Her message is especially clear ahead of Youth Month. “Stop being lazy. Having a degree isn’t the end – it’s the start. Keep learning, keep growing.”
And for those just starting out, she recommends SafetyCloud as a launchpad.
“They’ll start you at level zero and build you up. Begin with legal liability, first aid, SHE rep. Get your foundation right.”
She also sets the bar high for herself, adding that she will continue studying further in her field: “I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m on my way. The world is changing – and I want to evolve with it.”
