Sheffield resident Indrani Govender believes there is no such thing as “I can’t.”
And every day, when she dons a hard hat, safety vest and work boots, striding confidently into a male-dominated environment, she proves it.
The owner of Ricinz Construction has fought through harsh obstacles to triumph personally and corporately, with her efforts winning her a prestigious national award for job creation.
She was personally awarded by deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa and minister of small businesses Lindiwe Zulu.
The Job Creation Award is one of the Shanduka Black Umbrellas National Enterprise Development Awards, held in Sandton on June 4.
“My journey has not been an easy one but it has brought me to a place where I can help others. This business is God-given and all I do is for Him, to help others make something of their lives. I want people to see how many opportunities are there, just waiting to be grabbed.”
In an interview with the Courier Govender recounted her journey, beginning as the manager of the Foschini store in Stanger, in 2008.
Shortly after a horrific accident and being held up in two armed robberies, Govender decided to turn her life around.
“I knew I had to survive, if only for my two sons, Denzil and Mageshan. I told myself that I was going to bring in my own success.”
When she established Ricinz Construction four years ago she concentrated on grass-cutting and landscaping.
“I tendered for 36 contracts and was turned down, but I refused to give up. I was successful on my 37th tender, resurfacing a sports field in Nkobongo in 2010. We now work across KZN.”
Today, the company has two offices and three additional divisions: mechanical, electrical and construction.
Govender’s passion is motivation and empowerment. She spends time once a week mentoring small business owners in the area. She also takes on students from local FET colleges, teaching them business principles.
“It is easy to say there are no jobs, but government is providing opportunities at every turn. I can only share my story in the hope that it inspires others.”
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