09/08/2026
Happy Women's Day!
This Women's Month, we celebrate leaders who remind us that diversity is about far more than representation.
For Dr Zoliswa Tshetshe, Executive Chairman of M&D Construction Group, diversity in leadership creates something far more valuable: diversity of thought.
As one of the few women leading a major construction company in South Africa, Dr Tshetshe believes the strongest organisations are built when different perspectives, experiences and ideas are welcomed around the decision-making table.
Her leadership philosophy is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: lead yourself before you lead others. Through servant leadership, a people-first culture and an unwavering commitment to developing others, she continues to demonstrate that sustainable business success is built on trust, purpose and investing in people.
This philosophy aligns with M&D's Khula Nathi – "Grow with us" ethos. Growth is not measured only by the projects we complete or the businesses we build, but by the people we develop, the opportunities we create and the leaders we inspire.
Her advice to the next generation of women reflects that same commitment to growth:
✔️ Understand the role you aspire to.
✔️ Develop the skills, knowledge and experience required.
✔️ Be ready when opportunity arrives.
✔️ Run your own race and celebrate every milestone.
As Dr Tshetshe says:
"Diversity of thought does not happen by accident. It happens when organisations create space for different voices to be heard and when courageous women are prepared to take their seat at the table."
This Women's Month, we celebrate every woman who is investing in her own growth and every organisation committed to creating an environment where people can thrive.
Because Khula Nathi is more than a philosophy. It is a commitment to growing people, growing leaders and, ultimately, growing stronger businesses together.
