Leapfrog
Fulufhelo Tali
Senior Exploration Geologist
Johannesburg
Summary
Seasoned and detail-oriented Geologist with a strong commitment to accuracy, timely task execution, and a solid work ethic. Expertise in the full lifecycle of geological data, including collection, analysis, QA/QC, validation, and geological modelling. Adept at translating complex geological data into business-relevant insights for all stakeholders. Proven ability to lead and execute large-scale drilling projects within budget and schedule, including a successful tailing dam drilling initiative that confirmed the presence of PGMs. Dedicated to continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and strategic decision-making in mining and exploration. Proficient in data analytics, leveraging advanced analytical tools to interpret geological and operational datasets for informed decision-making. Proficient in assuring that all tasks performed meet SAMREC, JORC and NI 43-101 in new and existing Field and mine operations.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
3
3
Languages
Work History
Senior Exploration Geologist
Ivanhoe Mines
01.2024 - Current
- Lead geological exploration programs to identify and evaluate mineral resources.
- Manage drilling contractors, ensuring adherence to safety and operational standards.
- Log and sample drill core while maintaining high data accuracy for ore interpretation.
- Develop and implement geological models to support resource and reserve calculations.
- Communicate orebody interpretations and exploration updates with key stakeholders.
- Oversee QA/QC procedures to ensure integrity and accuracy of geological data.
- Utilize data analytics to identify geological patterns and optimize exploration strategies.
- Collaborate with mine management and planners for strategic decision-making.
- Championed the use of integrated data-driven approaches for enhanced subsurface imaging, leading to increased confidence in reserve estimations.
- Kept abreast of emerging trends in the field of geology through regular attendance at industry conferences, ensuring a competitive edge in exploration methodologies.
- Evaluated and recommended new software solutions to streamline workflow processes, resulting in significant time savings for the team.
- Designed cost-effective exploration strategies based on risk assessments and economic evaluations that maximized return on investment in a competitive market environment.
- Improved team performance by mentoring junior geologists and providing constructive feedback on their work.
- Delivered comprehensive training sessions for junior staff members on industry-standard software tools, bolstering overall team capabilities.
- Presented exploration findings to both technical and non-technical audiences, effectively communicating complex geological concepts and their implications on project outcomes.
- Maintained strong professional relationships with clients and partners by consistently delivering high-quality work and demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills.
- Obtained permits, planned and budgeted operations and coordinated exploration at Platreef mine site.
Section Geologist
Sibanye Stillwater
08.2016 - 12.2023
- Resolved geology-related problems at Bathopele mine through detailed mapping and site assessments.
- Adhered to safety practices, including demarcation of geological features and TARP classifications during assessments and mining to protect personnel and equipment.
- Managed Thembelani and Khuseleka mine sampling teams (3 samplers with 18 team members).
- Planned sampling points for optimal histogram and geological model creation.
- Studied assay results and created PGE trends for different geozones within Thembelani and Khuseleka.
- Conducted risk assessments for sampling equipment and operating procedures.
- Ensured all equipment was serviced and in working condition; created checklists to maintain personnel and equipment safety.
- Mentored and provided support to junior team members, assisting them in obtaining basic, elementary, and advanced sampling MQA certification.
- Successfully guided three employees to achieve basic and elementary certification, with one candidate attaining advanced evaluation certification.
- Signed off the Sable and sampling database.
- Managed all geological inputs for three underground sections.
- Planned and executed cover and prospect drilling within mining sections.
- Conducted geological interpretation for improved mine planning, control, and prediction of geological hazards.
- Calculated geo-losses for three areas of responsibility.
- Validated borehole information for all boreholes drilled in areas of responsibility.
- Applied data analytics techniques to assess sampling accuracy and improve geological interpretations.
- Collaborated with other departments during mine planning on a monthly basis.
Graduate Geologist (Exposure & Training)
Lebowa Platinum Mines
- Conducted core logging and Sable capturing.
- Developed in-stope and surface geological mapping.
- Plotted geological information on paper plans.
- Authored geological reports and assessments.
- Generated on-reef and off-reef sections for geological analysis.
- Contributed to successful prospecting campaigns by conducting remote sensing studies using satellite imagery and aerial photography techniques.
Education
Master of Science - Mineral Resource Management
University of The Free State
Bloemfontein01-2021
Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Geology
University of the Free State
Bloemfontein01-2009
Bachelor of Science - Geology
University of the Free State
Bloemfontein01-2008
Skills
Geological Software: MineRP, Sable Datawarehouse, Microstation, Datamine, Deswik CAD, Leapfrog, acQuire
Data Analysis & Validation
Predictive Analytics & Statistical Modeling
GIS & 3D Geological Modeling
Data Visualization (Excel, Power BI, Python Matplotlib/Seaborn)
SQL Querying & Database Management
Core Logging & Sample Management
Drilling Operations & Management
Fieldwork planning
Affiliations
Geological Society of South Africa (GSSA)
Software
Datamine
Acquire database management
Sable
Microsation
Deswik
Maptek
Interests
Visiting geologically interesting sites, Baking, Reading, Learning French
Timeline
Senior Exploration Geologist
Ivanhoe Mines
01.2024 - Current
Section Geologist
Sibanye Stillwater
08.2016 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Geology
University of the Free State
Bachelor of Science - Geology
University of the Free State
Graduate Geologist (Exposure & Training)
Lebowa Platinum Mines
Master of Science - Mineral Resource Management
University of The Free State