Invincible Valves MD honoured as SEIFSA Businesswoman of the Year Pam du Plessis, Managing Director of Invincible Valves, has been honoured with the prestigious Businesswoman of the Year Award by the Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (SEIFSA). This accolade recognises Du Plessis’s outstanding leadership, innovation and significant contributions to the steel and engineering sector. As a trailblazer in the industry, she has played a pivotal role in driving excellence and fostering growth within her organisation and the broader sector. "As a recipient of this award, I am reminded of the journey, challenges and triumphs that not only led me here. I am deeply humbled by this recognition and inspired by the powerful community of leaders in this industry," she said. Du Plessis, who has made her mark as a female leader in a male-dominated industry, used the awards as a moment to encourage and empower women in business and leadership roles. "To my fellow women in business and leadership: these awards are a testament to our courage, resilience and unwavering determination. The path we walk is not always smooth. We’ve faced unique challenges, long days, tough choices and moments of uncertainty. Yet, as women in business, we don’t let those challenges define us. Instead, we meet them head-on, we innovate, we adapt and most importantly, we persist." Du Plessis also shared a powerful message about the broader purpose of leadership, emphasising that it goes beyond personal success. "Leadership today is about creating an environment where others can succeed, too," she said. "As women in leadership, we have a unique power to shape the culture of the workplace. We can nurture creativity, empower others and champion diversity of thought and experience. Each day, we have the opportunity to lead with empathy, break down barriers and inspire those around us to reach their fullest potential." She said it was important for women to know that their work, ideas and passions mattered. “Whether you are an entrepreneur, an executive, a team leader or a strategist, your contributions are not only shaping your own story but are creating ripples that touch countless others. Every risk you take, every new idea you pursue and every difficult choice you make builds a stronger future for us all,” said Du Plessis. Du Plessis has become a driving force in the valve industry, taking Invincible Valves from strength to strength. Under her leadership, the company has grown to become one of the top valve distributors, reconditioners, and rubber liners in the South African market. Her strategic vision, commitment to excellence, and ability to navigate challenges have been key in shaping Invincible Valves into a leading player in the industry.
SEIFSA Chief Operations Officer, Tafadzwa Chibanguza, commended Du Plessis for her exceptional leadership, highlighting that she has fostered a people-centred culture at Invincible Valves. "She has extended wellness, education and mentorship initiatives not only to her team but also to the wider community," he said. This focus on empowering others, both within the company and beyond, underscores Du Plessis’s commitment to creating a lasting positive impact on her workforce and the broader community. “As we strive for excellence it is important to remember the power of community,” said Du Plessis. “Seek out mentorship, offer guidance, and celebrate the success of others. Our collective strength is magnified when we lift each other up. Let’s be the leaders who don’t just break glass ceilings – we replace them with open doors.” Invincible Valves also walked away as winners of the Best Customer Service Award for their exemplary dedication to transparent, reliable and customer-focused service.
Invincible Valves, +27 83 941 2691, pamdp@invalve.co.za, www.invalve.co.za