The idea to be a woman entrepreneur in the highly technological field of geospatial data management took shape in Andiswa Silinga’s mind more than 15 years ago because, says Silinga, “I’m driven by new challenges and I realised there were few geospatial or GIS (geographic information system) professionals around, and even fewer women, and industry seemed unaware of the value-add that GIS could contribute to businesses.”

Silinga had studied BSc at the University of Transkei and then gone on to do an MSc in GIS: Spatial Analysis and Environmental Management at the University of Stellenbosch. She joined the mining industry and worked in the field of GIS until she felt it was time to turn her dream to start a company that delivered solutions in the sector into reality in 2010, when she co-founded Gemini GIS and Environmental Services with business partner, Tankiso Phidza.

Andiswa Silinga, co-founder of Gemini GIS and Environmental Services.

Gemini provides geospatial data management solutions that help mining, construction, energy and infrastructure businesses to make informed operational decisions through the use of maps that highlight trends and patterns. “We use cutting-edge technologies that include GIS and unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, to collect accurate and near-to-real time location data, which we then analyse and interpret. Our solutions include aerial surveys, asset and infrastructure mapping, environmental compliance and monitoring, site mapping and inspections.”

The two partners have a team of four women, one man and a pool of independent consultants they work with on a project-by-project basis.

One of the many reasons that Gemini’s services are used by companies is the need for accurate and readily accessible information. Silinga explains, “We’re in an era of data analytics where organisations need information at their disposal to make quick and informed decisions. Many businesses have data available, but don’t realise that if they add a location component, more insight can be gained about the sector in which they are operating, the risks they face, and what action should be taken. For example, if a company plans to develop a shopping mall, they need to know that they have selected the best location. We map and analyse the area by collecting demographic data, existing infrastructure and environmental information. We analyse the datasets and use visualisation techniques based on the spatial relationship of the data, which delivers enough relevant information for the company to make a decision.”

Silinga and Gemini GIS and Environmental Services will be participating in the Absa Lionesses Xpo, a sophisticated virtual platform designed to showcase products and services from over 100 of South Africa’s leading women-owned businesses to corporate buyers and decision-makers.

The Xpo will launch with a dynamic, interactive event on Thursday, 29 October, and will be open to virtual visitors for several weeks thereafter.

Lionesses of Africa (LoA) is a Public Benefit Corporation that empowers leading female entrepreneurs of Africa, the ‘Lionesses’, to create game-changing impact for the continent.

Silinga, who has been a member of the Lionesses of Africa community since 2018, participated in the 2019 Absa Lionesses of Africa Demo Day, says the event gave her company some great exposure and she’s keen to leverage the value that this year’s virtual Xpo will add to Gemini’s marketing plans.

At the moment, business is fairly slow for Gemini as a result of the pandemic lockdown. “One of our biggest contracts ended in June and we are actively looking for project work. In the meantime, we are finalising our environmental projects, developing our staff skills and working on new solutions to reposition ourselves.”

Silinga adds that both Absa and Lionesses of Africa have had – and are having – a positive impact on the business, with financial support through the slow period and valuable exposure on Lionesses of Africa’s online platforms. “The value both organisations add to Gemini is excellent, and it’s making a difference as we reengineer our services to meet market expectations and needs.”

Melanie Hawken, Lionesses of Africa founder and CEO, says: “Andiswa is a great example of the importance of finding your niche in business and building your reputation on the back of being a specialist service provider with unique insights. We look forward to seeing Gemini grow and influence others to grow for years to come.”