RC Myburgh Ms Reginah Mahalefa, one of the finalists in this year’s Business Woman of the Year Competition, describes herself as a perfectionist who may sometimes annoy the people around her. She is however quick to add that she is a patient person who only wants the best from life. A qualified laboratory assistant she is currently enrolled for a diploma in civil engineering with the University of South Africa. Mahalefa, who has lived in Tzaneen for the past six years, became an entrepreneur in the construction industry five years ago after working for the Department of Water Affairs and the Mopani District Municipality among others. Asked about the industry and how women are coping in a formerly exclusively men’s world she said: "More women are making it," adding that the working environment has changed a great deal. Mahalefa contributes to these changes and the advancement of females by employing and sub contracting women. She is of the opinion that 2010 has offered many opportunities to which people have responded positively and reaped the benefits. Her vision for the South African Council for Business Women is to increase its membership in the next year. Her husband, Puncky works in the same industry and they have three boys. She is very proud of her family and strives to teach her children values that will benefit them for life. "I taught my children always to be trustworthy and endeavour to stand and make things happen for themselves. Never wait for handouts. Education is the key to anything you want in life," she said. She defines success as being able deliver a finished project with a good profit and being able to achieve a goal in your business plan within a given time. Mahalefa received a Construction Industry Development Board (CIBD) award for women women in construction in 2009. Her favourites include oats and plain yogurt for breakfast. Her favourite meal would include pap, roast lamb and vegetables and she makes a delicious chicken stew with rice and coleslaw. Her favourite holiday spot is Durban. Her preferred charities are the elderly and churches. "I am good at noticing pretentious people and it annoys me," Mahalefasaid. She concluded by saying the youth should never give up on their dreams and keep on striving for quality.
