Investing in the next generation of women – one opportunity at a time.
Leadership is not only about building successful businesses. It is about creating opportunities for others to succeed. For Thoko Tshabalala-Shandu, Managing Director of VEA Road Maintenance & Civils, this philosophy sits at the heart of her entrepreneurial journey and her leadership in South Africa’s infrastructure and construction sector.
Her invitation to serve as a Pitching Den Judge at the Standard Bank Top Women EmpowHER Gauteng Conference was a meaningful recognition of that journey. It also reflects the growing importance of women leaders in shaping industries that have traditionally been male-dominated.
The EmpowHER platform brings together women entrepreneurs, business leaders and industry experts to share knowledge, build networks and create access to opportunities that can accelerate business growth. Being part of the Pitching Den provides Thoko with an opportunity to do more than assess business ideas; it allows her to share experience, challenge thinking and encourage the next generation of women entrepreneurs.
From Infrastructure to Economic Empowerment
Infrastructure development is ultimately about creating connections and enabling economic activity. The same principle applies to entrepreneurship.
When women-owned businesses gain access to markets, finance, mentorship, networks and strategic partnerships, they are better positioned to scale, create employment and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
For Thoko, empowerment must translate into real economic opportunity. Her experience in the construction and infrastructure sector has reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability, sound business strategy and the willingness to continuously learn. These are lessons that can make a meaningful difference to entrepreneurs navigating the journey from business start-up to sustainable growth.
The Importance of Representation
Women need to see themselves represented in leadership positions across every sector of the economy. Thoko’s presence in a senior leadership role within infrastructure demonstrates that women can lead complex businesses, influence industry conversations and contribute to the development of South Africa’s built environment.
But representation is only one part of the equation. We also need leaders who are willing to open doors for others. Mentorship, knowledge sharing and access to networks can help emerging entrepreneurs navigate challenges that are often difficult to overcome alone. Platforms such as EmpowHER create valuable spaces where those connections can happen.
Building a More Inclusive Business Future
At VEA Roads, the commitment to empowerment, growth and inclusion is aligned with a broader belief: sustainable economic development requires more people to have the opportunity to participate and succeed.
The future of South African business will be stronger when women-owned enterprises are not only established but also given the support and access required to scale.
Thoko’s participation in the Standard Bank Top Women EmpowHER Gauteng Conference is an opportunity to contribute to a movement that recognises women’s entrepreneurial potential and creates platforms for that potential to become impactful. The businesses we build matter. But the opportunities we create for others may become our most enduring legacy.
As South Africa continues to pursue inclusive economic growth, women entrepreneurs must be at the centre of that conversation. Leaders across the business community have a responsibility to help ensure they have the networks, knowledge and opportunities to thrive. Build with purpose. Lead with courage. Create opportunities. And leave the door open for those coming next.
