Mpumelelo Nkosi’s strategic stride through Sandton

For many South Africans born and raised in a township environment, waking up in a community like Sandton (or the Mother City in the Western Cape) is a milestone accomplishment many pray to realise.

The journey’s goal is one step nearer to Soweto-born, Sandton-based property operations administrator Mpumelelo Nkosi (24).

In 2023, Nkosi became the recipient of a rare privilege while interning at a commercial property firm in Sandton – that of having options to pick from in choosing his permanent employer.

“I thought of which place would make sense for my career goals, so I chose Sandton,” said Nkosi.
“I had different options, and opportunities in Cape Town as well. Where else would I work if not at a company in the richest square mile in Africa?”

The power of having a choice in where to work isn’t one availed to everyone, Nkosi acknowledged – pointing out how important spaces are for native South Africans, given how mass, non-racial inclusion is only three decades old this year. However, his decision to work in, and work towards residing around Sandton – specifically for how the city is tailored for his career aspirations.

“There are certain spaces – places, buildings and rooms – that I wouldn’t have entered if I hadn’t studied for my degree, or if I hadn’t chosen Sandton over Cape Town.
“Sandton has exposed me to networking and building relationships from higher echelons than myself.”

Although still a Naledi, Soweto resident – Nkosi specified his intention to move into the Sandton region, particularly the Parkmore community, next.

“It’s close to the node of Sandton City, with less traffic, unlike Bryanston,” Nkosi said optimistically.

History has determined for some South Africans to be born in progressive environments, where others have always collectively been designated to remote townships that are addled with progress-stymying socio-economic factors.

Nkosi’s decision to situate himself strategically in order to tap into his market of choice, and network with the right people, is one of the more positive trend suggestions encouraged for South Africa’s youth to consider embodying.

Establishing a career in commercial property isn’t easy, given the sector’s complexity and multifaceted nature. The first step is being at the right place and time when an opportunity comes. The wisdom shown in the decision to strategically target Sandton as his base for employment and residency, overall, is Nkosi’s claim to fame.

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