Bongiwe Nkosi

Position: Welder
Personal best achievement: Having the opportunity to work at Notefull Engineering has been transformative. It has enabled me to achieve personal milestones such as building a house, purchasing a car, and ensuring my children receive a quality education.
Education: Theory: Richtek Campus, Practical: DNK Engineering, Certification: Trade-tested welder
Philosophy of life: Though I navigate life with a physical disability, it doesn’t define me. I may have one disabled hand, but it will never deter me from pursuing and achieving greatness.
Message to other women leaders: Always believe in yourself and your capabilities. Anything is possible when you set your mind to it. Remember, the only boundaries in life are the ones you create for yourself.

Londi Ntshalintshali

Position: Accounts Manager
Personal best achievement: I started as a filing clerk for a law firm then transitioned to engineering. Over the last two decades I’ve empowered myself with the skills, knowledge and education to elevate myself to becoming a dedicated accounts manager with my own team.
Person I would like to meet the most: Basetsana Kumalo, I’d love to sit and discuss mindset and business with her. From looking at how she’s dominated her industry, she is a true inspiration.
Philosophy of life: Anything is possible with the right mindset, skills and resources.
Message to other women leaders: Keep on trying, don’t give up and always remember the sky is the limit.

Tembisile Mbatha

Position: Workshop Manager
Management Style: I adopt a situational management approach. Recognising that no one style is a one-size-fits-all solution, I tailor my management method based on the task at hand, the situation, and the individuals or teams I oversee.
Personal best achievement: I hold the distinction of being the first woman to serve as a workshop manager at Notefull Engineering. Furthermore, I’ve proudly held this position for three years, setting a new precedent in the company’s history.
Philosophy of life: I don’t fear failure; I fear not trying. Life doesn’t come with a remote; we must stand up and take charge, crafting our own destiny.
Message to other women leaders: The world yearns for strong women: those who uplift, build, love, and are loved. Women who embody a blend of tenderness and fierce determination. Embrace your strength and make a difference.

Ntokozo Mhlongo

Position: Procurement Officer
Personal best achievement: My greatest personal achievement is learning to prioritise myself, ensuring I have the balance and wellbeing to excel in every role I undertake.
Management Style: I believe in fostering open communication, motivating my team, and practicing effective organisation and delegation. I prioritise problem-solving and thoughtful decision-making, ensuring that every task is executed seamlessly.
Philosophy of life: Control your thoughts, and you’ll harness control over your life’s trajectory. Moreover, it’s essential never to underestimate the profound impact of seemingly small gestures or choices.
Message to other women leaders: The realm of impossibilities shrinks when you harness the power of determination. If you commit and believe, you can achieve anything.

Thandeka Chili

Position: Artisan Welder
Personal best achievement: Trade Test Certification as a Welder
Person I would like to meet the most: I am inspired by Londy Ngcobo, a renowned ship navigator and Africa’s first dredge master. Her journey signifies breaking barriers, and I would cherish an opportunity to converse with her.
Philosophy of life: Do not fear failure; instead, fear not taking a chance. Life doesn’t come with a remote; if you want change, you must instigate it. Seek respect over attention; it lasts longer.
Message to other women leaders: Quality over quantity should be your mantra. Always strive for excellence in your product or service. Elevate your standards, and success will follow.

Zamavuso Mshengu

Position: HR Manager
Personal best achievement: Becoming a mom. I have had a lot of professional successes, but none have been as great or fulfilling than the day my daughter came into my life.
Person I would like to meet the most: Internationally, Kris Jenner. Locally Lynette Ntuli, she is the founder and CEO of Innate Investment Solutions, she is an inspiring authentic thought leader who is incredibly personable. She was also head girl at my high school, but I joined after she had left, and everyone would talk about what an amazing leader she was.  
Philosophy of life: Life is best lived. Living with intention and for enjoyment.
Message to other women leaders: Shania Twain once said “Let’s go girls” an anthemic call to action which I think we should centre in our lives as women and as leaders, let's keep going, continue taking up space, shaking the table, and paving a way for those who come after us to do even bigger and better things.

Nompumelelo Mwandla

Position: Rigger
Personal best achievement: I take pride in my authentic self — from my choices to my errors, everything has been a learning experience. Embracing my role as a breadwinner has been challenging, yet my family thrives because of my commitment and dedication.
Person I would like to meet the most: I admire and would love the opportunity to meet Ntokozo Mbatha, an individual whose journey resonates with mine.
Message to other women leaders: Every woman deserves respect, dignity and the freedom to realise her fullest potential. We should champion a world where gender never hinders opportunity or success. Every woman’s voice is essential, valuable, and deserves to be heard. No matter the trials you face today, never give in — keep pushing forward.

Barbara Merana

Position: Mechanical Fitter
Personal best achievement: I hold the distinctive honour of being the sole female mechanical fitter in RBM with a Trade Test qualification.
Education: Successfully completed a rigorous 3-year apprenticeship, culminating in becoming a Trade Tested professional in Fitting and Turning.
Philosophy of life: Always push boundaries to achieve optimal results.
Message to other women leaders: Your aspirations are valid and powerful. Once you’ve set your mind to a goal, channel your energy and commitment to transform it into reality.