The construction industry has long been viewed as a male-dominated field. But in South Africa, an inspiring shift is happening. Women are not only entering the industry — they’re reshaping it. From engineers and architects to project managers and CEOs, these trailblazing women in construction are proving that building the future is not just a man’s job.

In this blog post, we highlight the power, progress, and achievements of these incredible women making a difference in South Africa’s built environment.

Why Highlight Women in Construction?

Construction is a key driver of economic growth and job creation. However, according to the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), women make up less than 15% of the workforce in South Africa’s construction sector. The challenges are steep — gender stereotypes, lack of access to funding, and limited mentorship.

Yet, women and many more across the country are rising to the challenge. They’re not only participating in construction — they’re leading, innovating, and inspiring others to follow suit.

Women Who Are Reshaping Construction in South Africa

Here’s a breakdown of influential, emerging, and inspirational women in the industry — a combination of leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators:

Nolitha Fakude

Position: Chairperson, Anglo American Management Board (South Africa)
Industries: Mining, Infrastructure, Corporate Governance

Background

Nolitha Fakude is one of the most influential women in South Africa’s mining and infrastructure space. With decades of experience in corporate leadership, she has carved a significant presence in sectors closely linked to the built environment, particularly through mining infrastructure and community development. Born in the Eastern Cape, Nolitha holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Fort Hare and completed executive education at Harvard Business School.

Companies She Has Worked With

• Anglo American South Africa – Currently Chairperson of the Management Board
• Sasol – Former Executive Vice President and Chairman of Sasol South Africa
• Woolworths Holdings Limited – Served on the board and held various leadership roles

Her Impact on Construction and Infrastructure

Though not a builder in the traditional sense, Nolitha’s work in mining-linked infrastructure projects, community development, and procurement transformation directly supports the construction ecosystem. She champions the integration of women into sectors like construction, engineering, and mining, calling for inclusive growth across the value chain.

Bridgette Radebe

Position: Founder and Executive Chairperson of Mmakau Mining
Industries: Mining, Infrastructure Development, Economic Empowerment

Background

Born on February 26, 1960, Bridgette Radebe is recognised as South Africa’s first black female mining entrepreneur. Growing up during apartheid, she was inspired by her family’s entrepreneurial spirit and the systemic challenges they faced. Despite legislative barriers that prohibited black individuals, especially women, from owning mining rights, Radebe entered the mining industry in the 1980s as a contract miner, managing individual shaft operations and supplying materials to larger mining houses.

Her determination led her to establish Mmakau Mining, a company that has grown to hold equity in platinum, gold, chrome, and coal mining operations. Beyond mining, Radebe has been a vocal advocate for economic transformation and the inclusion of marginalised communities in South Africa’s economic landscape.

Companies Associated With

• Mmakau Mining – Founder and Executive Chairperson
• Shaft Sinkers (Pty) Ltd – Former stakeholder
• African Rainbow Capital Investments – Former Non-Executive Director
• Sappi Limited – Former Board Member
• New Africa Mining Fund – Founder and Trustee

Impact on Construction and Infrastructure

While Radebe’s primary focus has been mining, her work has significantly impacted South Africa’s construction and infrastructure sectors. Through Mmakau Mining, she has been involved in the development of mining infrastructure, including shafts and processing plants. Her advocacy for inclusive economic policies has also influenced legislation related to infrastructure development and resource management.

Radebe’s leadership extends to her role as President of the South African Mining Development Association, where she has championed policies promoting sustainable development and community up-liftment in mining regions.

Dorah Modise

Position: Executive Director, Presidential Climate Commission
Industries: Sustainability, Environmental Policy, Green Building, Infrastructure Development

Background

Dorah Modise is a seasoned sustainability expert with over 26 years of experience spanning environmental policy, international diplomacy, and sustainable development. Her academic credentials include a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science, a Master’s in Environmental Development and Policy from the University of Sussex, and a postgraduate diploma in Environmental Diplomacy from the University of Geneva.

Modise’s career commenced in academia, lecturing on environmental pollution and disease epidemiology. She then transitioned into public service, holding senior management roles at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, where she was instrumental in drafting the adaptation component of the White Paper on Climate Change and establishing the National Green Fund.

Her leadership extended to local government as the Executive Director for City Sustainability at the City of Tshwane, and she later served as Deputy Director-General at the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment.

Companies and Organisations Associated With

• Presidential Climate Commission – Executive Director
• Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) – Former CEO
• Paper and Packaging PRO Alliance – Former CEO
• City of Tshwane – Former Executive Director for City Sustainability
• Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment – Former Senior Manager

Impact on Construction and Infrastructure

During her tenure as CEO of the Green Building Council South Africa, Modise significantly advanced the country’s green building movement. She increased the number of buildings certified as “green” and collaborated with the public sector to develop policies aimed at achieving net-zero carbon, waste, water, and ecology standards for new constructions.

At the Presidential Climate Commission, Modise continues to influence national strategies on climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure development. Her work ensures that environmental considerations remain central to South Africa’s infrastructure planning and execution.

Connie Ferguson

Position: Actress, Producer, Entrepreneur
Industries: Television, Film Production, Personal Care, Real Estate Investment

Background

Connie Ferguson, born Constance Masilo on June 10, 1970, in Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa, is a renowned actress, producer, and businesswoman. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Karabo Moroka in the popular South African soap opera Generations, a character she portrayed from 1994 to 2010, with subsequent returns in later years. Her early career included modelling and acting, which laid the foundation for her future endeavours in the entertainment industry.

Companies Associated With

• Ferguson Films – Co-founded in 2010 with her late husband, Shona Ferguson, this production company has been responsible for several successful South African television series, including Rockville, The Queen, The Throne, and Kings of Jo’burg.
• Connie Brands – Launched in partnership with Groovin Nchabeleng, this personal care line offers products tailored for African skin, addressing concerns like dryness and pigmentation.
• Lewatle Investments – An investment company co-founded by Connie Ferguson, focusing on diverse business interests.

Impact on Entertainment and Business

Connie Ferguson’s influence extends beyond acting; through Ferguson Films, she has played an important role in shaping South African television content, providing platforms for local talent, and telling authentic African stories. Her entrepreneurial ventures demonstrate a commitment to addressing specific needs within the African market, particularly in personal care. Her multifaceted career serves as an inspiration, highlighting the impact of combining creative passion with business acumen.

Nthabiseng Mosia

Position: Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Easy Solar
Industries: Renewable Energy, Fintech, Sustainable Development

Background

Born in Ghana and raised in South Africa, Nthabiseng Mosia is a South African-Ghanaian entrepreneur dedicated to addressing energy poverty in Africa. Experiencing frequent power outages during her youth sparked her interest in energy solutions. She earned a Bachelor of Business Science in Finance and Economics from the University of Cape Town, graduating with first-class honours. Pursuing her passion further, she obtained a Master’s degree in Energy Finance and Policy from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs.

Companies Associated With

• Easy Solar – Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer

In 2016, Mosia co-founded Easy Solar, an off-grid solar energy company based in Sierra Leone. The company provides affordable solar-powered devices and financing options to communities with limited access to electricity. Under her leadership, Easy Solar has expanded its reach, impacting over 1 million people and creating more than 1,000 jobs in Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Impact on Sustainable Development

Mosia’s work with Easy Solar has significantly contributed to sustainable development in West Africa. By offering pay-as-you-go solar solutions, the company empowers households to transition from harmful energy sources like kerosene to clean, renewable energy. This shift not only improves health outcomes but also fosters economic growth by enabling extended business hours and educational opportunities.

Recognition

Mosia’s innovative approach to energy access has garnered international acclaim:

• 2019: Social Entrepreneur of the Year by the World Economic Forum and Schwab Foundation
• 2020: Young Female Entrepreneur of the Year by Forbes Africa
• 2021: Bloomberg New Economy Catalyst

Leah Molatseli

Position: Founder of Contract Alchemists; Legal Tech Specialist; Author; Speaker
Industries: Legal Technology, Innovation, Entrepreneurship

Background

Leah Molatseli is a South African lawyer turned legal tech specialist, renowned for her contributions to modernising legal practices through technology. With over a decade of experience in the legal field, she has transitioned from traditional legal roles to becoming a leading figure in legal innovation. Her academic credentials include a certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from the University of Notre Dame, and she is a Mandela Washington Fellow.

Molatseli’s journey into legal technology began in 2017 when she co-founded Lenoma Legal, a virtual legal tech startup aimed at assisting small businesses in South Africa. Recognising the need for accessible legal services, she leveraged technology to bridge the gap between legal professionals and underserved communities.

Companies and Organisations Associated With

• Contract Alchemists – Founder
  A company focused on modernizing legal teams through legal operations, agile methodologies, and technology.
• Lenoma Legal – Co-founder
  A virtual legal tech startup providing legal services to small businesses in South Africa.
• Legal Interact – Former Head of Business Development
  A legal tech company where she focused on integrating technology into legal practices.
• Global Legal Tech Hub (Spain) – Advisory Board Member
  Provided insights on legal technology trends and developments.
• Women in Tech South Africa – Advisory Board Member
  Advocated for the inclusion and advancement of women in technology sectors.
• Corporate Legal Operations Consortium (CLOC) – Voice and Brand Council Member

Impact on Legal Technology and Innovation

Molatseli’s work has significantly influenced the adoption of technology in the legal sector within South Africa and beyond. Through her ventures, she has demonstrated how legal services can be made more accessible and efficient. Her role as a speaker and author has further amplified her impact, educating legal professionals on the importance of embracing innovation.

Her recognition by the American Bar Association as the first African woman honoured for contributions to legal tech underscores her pioneering role in the industry.

Portia Derby

Position: Former Group Chief Executive, Transnet SOC Ltd
Industries: Public Administration, Infrastructure, Logistics, Investment

Background

Portia Derby is a seasoned South African executive with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. She has held several high-profile positions, including Director-General of the Department of Public Enterprises, where she oversaw state-owned entities such as Transnet. Her career reflects a commitment to driving economic development and institutional reform in South Africa.

Companies and Organisations Associated With

• Transnet SOC Ltd – Group Chief Executive (2020–2023)
  Appointed in January 2020, Derby led Transnet, South Africa’s state-owned freight transport and logistics company, during a challenging period marked by infrastructure issues and economic pressures. Her tenure focused on restoring operational efficiency and integrity within the organisation.
• Ubu Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd – Founder and CEO (2010–2016)
  Derby founded this economic advisory firm, which worked on high-impact assignments across Africa, focusing on industrialisation, infrastructure development, and public sector institutional development.
• UBANK Ltd – Non-Executive Director
  Derby serves on the board of this South African financial services provider, contributing her expertise in governance and strategic oversight.
• Metair Investments Ltd – Independent Non-Executive Director (2016–2020)
  She provided strategic guidance to this investment holding company with interests in manufacturing and energy storage solutions.
• Department of Public Enterprises – Director-General
  In this role, Derby was responsible for overseeing various state-owned enterprises, implementing policies to improve their performance and accountability.
• Department of Trade and Industry – Chief Operating Officer
  Derby managed operations within the department, focusing on trade promotion and industrial development initiatives.

Impact on Infrastructure and Economic Development

Portia Derby’s leadership at Transnet was marked by efforts to revitalise South Africa’s freight and logistics sectors. She aimed to address inefficiencies and restore stakeholder confidence in the organisation. Her broader career reflects a dedication to strengthening public institutions and allowing economic growth through strategic infrastructure development.

Nomvula Dlamini

Position: Executive Director, Community Development Resource Association (CDRA); Trustee, Inyathelo
Industries: Community Development, Social Change, Non-Profit Sector

Background

Nomvula Dlamini is a South African leader renowned for her extensive work in community development and social transformation. With a career spanning several decades, she has been instrumental in shaping strategies that empower communities and foster sustainable development.

Companies and Organisations Associated With

• Community Development Resource Association (CDRA) – Executive Director
  CDRA is a South African non-profit organisation dedicated to strengthening civil society organisations and promoting social change. Under Dlamini’s leadership, CDRA has facilitated numerous programs aimed at building organisational capacity and community resilience.
• Inyathelo: The South African Institute for Advancement – Trustee
  Inyathelo works to build a strong, stable civil society by enhancing the capacity of non-profit organisations. As a trustee, Dlamini contributes to the strategic direction and governance of the organisation.
• Nomvula Dlamini Production (Pty) Ltd – Director
  Based in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, this company reflects Dlamini’s entrepreneurial endeavours, focusing on initiatives that align with her commitment to community up-liftment.

Impact on Community Development and Social Change

Through her roles at CDRA and Inyathelo, Nomvula Dlamini has significantly influenced the landscape of community development in South Africa. Her efforts have centred on empowering local organisations, fostering participatory development, and promoting social justice. Dlamini’s work emphasises the importance of community-led initiatives and the development of sustainable solutions to social challenges.

Common Challenges Faced by Women in Construction

While the success stories are inspiring, many of these women have faced:

• Gender discrimination and workplace bias
• Unequal access to contracts and tenders
• Lack of mentorship and role models
• Difficulty accessing funding for business growth
• Safety concerns on male-dominated worksites

Yet, with grit, skill, and vision, they continue to rise, breaking barriers for the next generation.

Why Representation Matters

Representation drives transformation. When young girls see women operating bulldozers, leading projects, or managing construction companies, it changes perceptions. The construction sector needs diverse voices and inclusive leadership to innovate, evolve, and serve communities effectively.

Organisations like South African Women in Construction (SAWIC) and CETA are playing an important role in supporting and training women in the sector.

The Way Forward

To encourage more women in construction, South Africa must:

• Increase access to training and technical education for girls
• Provide funding and mentorship for women-owned construction firms
• Enforce gender equity policies in tender processes
• Promote female leadership in engineering and infrastructure sectors

The future of construction isn’t male, it’s equal, inclusive, and diverse.

Conclusion

These women in construction are more than just professionals, they’re pioneers. They’re laying foundations not just for buildings, but for equality, innovation, and transformation in South Africa.

As the country builds its cities, roads, and homes, these women remind us that every brick laid by a woman is a brick laid for progress.