Empowering Women in Construction: The Impact of Mpumalanga Queens In Construction

The construction industry has long been a male-dominated field, but women across South Africa are increasingly breaking barriers and reshaping the future. One standout group making waves is the Mpumalanga Queens In Construction—a dynamic collective of women who are uplifting and empowering each other to succeed in the industry.

Leadership & Legacy

Led by visionary trailblazers like Mama Nomshado Madonsela of Basadi Civil Construction, the Mpumalanga Queens are proving that women can thrive—and lead—in construction. Recently, the group was on the ground in Msholozi Township, taking part in the physical construction of homes and showcasing their skills and deep commitment to community development.

“Such a beautiful privilege to be mentored by a Construction Guru like Mama Nomshado,”
says Nolwazi Shongwe, a member of the collective. Mentorship like this plays a key role in building confidence, technical skills, and leadership in the next generation of female builders.

Hands-On Change, Community Impact

The group’s recent project in Msholozi is more than just a building initiative—it’s a symbol of empowerment and progress. Each structure built represents new beginnings, not only for the families who will live there but also for the women whose hands shaped it.

This initiative emphasizes more than brick-and-mortar impact; it reflects the Mpumalanga Queens’ mission: to empower women through skills development, community capacity building, and infrastructure innovation.

Collaboration & Structured Support

This mission is supported by a collaborative effort involving NGOs and SMEs. The initiative draws strength from partners like Project Revitalized, a youth-led program by the Mordecai Ndlov Foundation, and builds on momentum from the Graça Machel Trust’s Women Creating Wealth (WCW) workshop, held in Mbombela, Mpumalanga.

Together, these organizations are creating structured pathways into the construction industry for women—offering access to training in new venture development, peer-to-peer resource sharing, and community-driven development models.

Changing the Narrative

The Mpumalanga Queens In Construction are not just building houses—they’re building futures. By breaking down traditional gender roles and challenging stereotypes, they are reshaping what the construction workforce looks like, and laying the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable industry.

Their work is a beacon of hope and a call to action: that through collaboration, education, and mentorship, women can rise, lead, and transform not only the industry but entire communities.

For more information, please contact Nolwazi Shongwe at nolwazis@mn-f.org or follow the movement on social media.