Nqobile Valentia Veronica Mkhabela has made her mark as Mpumalanga’s only finalist in the 36th annual Business Partners Limited Entrepreneur of the Year® awards, outshining over 600 entrants from across the country.
The Founder and Managing Director of Siyanqobangamandla Engineering Services (Pty) in Witbank began her business with a mission to serve the South African mining industry. Initially focused on cleaning services, Mkhabela quickly recognised the need to diversify the company’s operations to address various market demands. Over the years, Siyanqobangamandla has expanded its service portfolio to provide a wide array of electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering solutions to a range of sectors, including manufacturing, construction, utilities, and public services.
Mkhabela is in the running for the Medium Business Entrepreneur award, which celebrates those managing businesses with over R30 million in annual turnover. She believes that the skills and competencies that have driven her to launch, grow, and successfully manage her enterprise merit this recognition. “Collectively, these attributes help me tackle challenges, harness opportunities, and steer the business toward success.”
“Nqobile’s journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence – all qualities which make her a deserving finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year® awards. Her success story is a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, vision, and determination,” says David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited.
On Thursday, 7 November 2024, the winners in each category—including the coveted Job Creator of the Year—will be unveiled at an awards ceremony in Gauteng. One standout business owner will also claim the title of South Africa’s overall Entrepreneur of the Year®.