Running the show with royal flair
This princess is not waiting for a knight in shining armor instead, she is running her own empire
POLOKWANE – A woman of stealth and vigour, Princess Tsakani Beatrice Nkambule, is not only an established author, former educator, and motivational speaker, she is also a successful businesswoman.
She is the Group CEO of Endoni Holdings and served on the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Nafcoc) board as a Provincial Secretary and Deputy National Secretary for more than a decade.
Her book, From the Bedroom to the Boardroom, is about how women can be powerful and win anywhere, whether at home or in the business world. It is described as a motivational book for women that transcends all barriers and unleashes an inner power at home and at work.
Hailing from a royal family, she is the daughter of Hosi Nwamitwa II who made history by becoming the first female Hosi (chief) of the Vatsonga people after an eight-year court battle which ended in the Constitutional Court.
“It was traditionally taboo for a woman to rule the clan but my mother, Tinyiko Lwandlamuni Phillia N’wamitwa, was granted this privilege in 2008. She was also a member of National Parliament for 20 years and my late father is from the Shilubana Royal Kingdom,” she said, explaining where her title of princess originates.
Princess Tsakani is also a former Chairperson of the Businesswomen’s Association of South Africa (BWASA), an association which highlights the current status of women in leadership positions in South Africa and acts as a lobbying group which advocates women’s business issues in an effort to transform the economy.
She studied science at the University of Fort Harare, and a high diploma in education and a senior degree in education at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). After completing her studies she lectured at Tivumbeni College of Education for three years.
“I felt I was not getting fair compensation for the effort I put in. I loved teaching but I was looking for new challenges and obstacles in the business world,” she said.
She had many business ideas she wanted to initiate and implement. Throughout her university years she sold various merchandise and started a full time business 25 years ago.
“Naturally I’m not good at taking instructions, I thrive when I am consulted in a decision that affects me,” she said.
One of the things she loves most about the business world is that every day is an opportunity to learn and do exciting and challenging things. “I love the thrill of rising to any challenge, I love the opportunity of ‘paying it forward’ through helping other women to break through societal barriers,” she explained.
Originally from Tzaneen, she now lives in Polokwane with her husband with whom she has three children who are all grown up.
In her free time she enjoys reading, especially business, motivational, and spiritual books. Along with this she enjoys doing interior decorating as a hobby.
“I enjoy going to the gym and I religiously visit a health spa three to four times a year. Through my busy schedule I always make time for friends and family by reserving time in my schedule for lunches or dinners with them. Family holidays are a must but it is becoming difficult with three independent kids,” she laughed. Her advice to other women is to never limit themselves. “Discover your passion and your strengths and use them to your advantage. Fear of failure should not be a deterrent, conquer your fears and dream big. Surround yourself with people who will motivate you to achieve your goals and ensure you have a proper support system at work and at home,” she said.
Her book, From the Bedroom to the Boardroom, is available in CNA stores countrywide. In her book she talks about her failures, lessons and her successes with the hope to inspire, empower and change lives.
