KwaDukuza’s own lady of construction

At just 26 years old, Cebile Zulu is already a force to be reckoned with.

Known as “Mhlopekazi” in the streets of KwaDukuza, she is an astute entrepreneur and business owner of Sqimntwana Construction – grade 3CE (Level 1 B-BBEE).

Her mom, Muhle Xulu, is also a business owner, and first inspired her to get into construction. Cebile gained experience in the industry from her mother and brother, who are both in same industry.

Cebile’s brother, Menzi, opened her company as a birthday gift to her, and left her to run with it.

“I started without capital, and still had a lot to learn,” Cebile said.

Now, she gets a kick out of the fact that she is fixing the very roads she travels on.

Originally from Eshowe, Cebile now lives in Stanger and is a self-described family girl. She also loves reading and going to the gym.

What thrills her the most, though, is that she is creating jobs.

“I am able to help many families through job creation,” she said. “That’s the reason for my hustle.”

Next up, she would like to open a textile factory, and is in the process of doing so.

“My plan for the future is to keep creating employment.”

Her biggest achievement was being nominated for the Sebenza Women Awards under the Women in Construction category, which finds her pitted against heavyweights like Dr Thandi Mdlovu and Shaun Mpisane.

The awards event will take place on August 9 at Umfolozi Casino in Empangeni.

“Being nominated is such an honour,” she said.