SAICE award winner Victor Chibaya on what young engineers need to succeed

Victor Chibaya, a 26-year-old structural engineer, was recently named the South African Institution of Civil Engineering’s Graduate Engineer of the Year for 2026. Chibaya, who works at SiVEST in Johannesburg, chairs the SAICE Future Leaders Panel and is currently completing a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering and Materials at the University of Cape Town.

His journey to success began with a love for maths and science, and a fascination with science-fiction films that questioned characters' efforts to fix damaged worlds rather than build fixes.

Chibaya's confidence grew during his Grade 9 year when he unexpectedly finished fifth in his grade, a moment that marked a shift in his self-perception. Mrs. Turner, his Life Sciences teacher, played a crucial role in pushing him to aim higher, believing in his potential despite his initial doubts. Both of Chibaya's parents, educators themselves, pursued postgraduate studies and served as strong influences in his life, encouraging him to pursue his education further.

While Chibaya's academic achievements are notable, he emphasizes that young engineers need more than just education to succeed. He stresses the importance of access to experienced mentors, meaningful projects, and decision-making rooms to contribute and shape outcomes. SAICE chief executive Sekadi Phayane-Shakhane echoed this sentiment, highlighting the critical need to develop the next generation of engineers as South Africa prioritizes infrastructure development.

Chibaya acknowledges the award as both an honor and a responsibility, motivating him to continue creating opportunities for others and demonstrating what young engineers can achieve when entrusted with leadership roles. Through his involvement in the Future Leaders Panel, he addresses education, professional registration, industry access, community outreach, and advocacy.

Chibaya envisions his career defined not only by the projects he completes but by the opportunities he creates for others, aiming to be remembered for developing solutions, fostering collaboration, and contributing to a stronger, more sustainable South Africa.