MIDDELBURG – Shoki Nengovhela, a vibrant and confident 32-year-old mother of two, emerged as the top winner of the Hollywood Foundation Bambelela Business Awards. With confidence and strength akin to that of an African elephant, Nengovhela is the driving force behind Tembo Engineering, a dynamic mechanical engineering company based in Middelburg within the Steve Tshwete municipality. Nengovhela walked away with a prize of R130,000 after impressing a panel of judges, which included business consultant Thabo Pitse from the University of the Free State and public speaker and entrepreneur Thami Zondi, with her compelling presentation.
Tembo Engineering specializes in the design, fabrication, material analysis, and supply of steel to clients locally and even internationally. “We are also exporting steel to customers outside the South African borders. We have customers in Ghana,” Nengovhela proudly mentioned.
The name “Tembo,” derived from Swahili meaning African elephant, reflects the company’s inspiration drawn from the natural strength and resilience of these majestic animals.
Established in 2016, Tembo Engineering commenced operations in 2020 after Nengovhela resigned from her day job as an engineer. “That decision was purely motivated by the need to focus on growing the business,” she explained. “I told myself if I could dedicate 24/7 to somebody else, I am sure I could do it for myself and also build a legacy for my children.”
Part of Nengovhela’s vision for her legacy is to empower other women by providing them with employment opportunities and a platform to grow in the industry. She emphasised that the prize money she received will be invested in the business’s expansion and towards supporting the education of a young woman in the engineering field.
“For me, investing in another woman is a significant commitment. Our industry is in need of more women to make a difference,” Nengovhela expressed passionately.
She further disclosed plans to sponsor a student, Precious Nyoni, for studies in quality inspection in welding and fabrication. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to pursue quality inspection studies in welding and fabrication, thanks to Tembo Engineering Services,” Nyoni commented. “This will not only benefit me but also contribute to the company’s growth and success in the future.”
