From a cushy job to helping the poor

MISSION: PROMOTES SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN MINING INDUSTRY

- Masoka Dube

About 20 years ago, David van Wyk left his well-paying government job to join a nonprofit organisation specialising in protecting the rights of mining-affected communities and his struggle continues...

Van Wyk is a lead researcher at the Bench Marks Foundation, where he has been instrumental in shaping the research agenda.

He leads a team dedicated to investigating and promoting ethical investment and corporate social responsibility in the mining industry.

"My responsibilities include conceptualising, designing and executing long-term research projects that address complex issues facing mining-affected communities."

Under his leadership, the foundation has produced a series of Policy Gap Reports over 12 years, offering in-depth analysis on the social, economic, health and environmental consequences of mining operations.

"The reports have become authoritative references for policymakers, activists and academics seeking to address the impacts of extractive industries in South Africa. My expertise bridges the interconnected worlds of ethical investment, corporate social responsibility, education and the mining sector's social, economic and environmental impacts across Southern Africa."

So what motivated Van Wyk to leave the lavish life and take a job that sees him moving around the previously disadvantaged communities, who are surrounded by mining operations that are making billions by exporting the minerals?