Portia Phalane - Standard Bank Top Women Young Achiever Award 2023

By Naledi Mokoena

Portia Phalane is a woman whose passion to deliver exceptional results in the construction industry positioned her as a force to be reckoned with. This visionary transformed her company Sue Phalane Trading and Projects (Pty) Ltd into a symbol of success and as a catalyst for empowering women and communities.

As a trailblazer, entrepreneur and leader in the construction industry, it paved the way for her being recognised for her excellence and commitment to transform her company into a powerhouse. Portia scooped the Standard Bank Top Women Young Achiever Award 2023.

A Leader Defying Barriers

Portia’s journey began from the village of Lefaragathle in Rustenburg and becoming a construction industry leader is a testament to her tenacity for tackling challenges. During her earlier years she says her initiation into the construction and infrastructure development sector was fueled by her fascination with creation, construction and making an impactful difference. Her ambitions were set on constructing bridges and shaping the world around her, leading to her enrolling at President Mangope Technical School and excelling in Technical Drawing and Building Construction.

Portia later pursued a National Diploma in Civil Engineering at the Tshwane University of Technology in 2006. Her transition from a junior technician to middle-management was propelled by her dedication and her keen interest for knowledge. Portia’s extensive educational background laid the groundwork for her career; a true testament of innovation and notable achievements.

“She believes there’s a great deal to learn from an organisation that allows and encourages members to contribute on all levels. In addition to rallying the team and ensuring that everyone understands that every contribution, regardless of how small it may be, has incredible value,” -Fleet Manager Obed Tsiti.

In addition to her achievements, Portia is a leader who is described as actively participating in mentorship programmes, providing guidance and support to aspiring female professionals. Furthermore, she seeks out partnerships with other female owned businesses to facilitate more opportunities for women. Human resource administrator Refilwe Madonsela, initially began her tenure at Sue Phalane Trading and Projects as an HR intern in 2021.

She says what inspired and developed her own dedication towards her profession was the company’s management’s leadership skills, which are dedicated to developing the careers of employees. “She has brought employment to the youth in the community; she gave us skills development and a platform for us to be innovative. She has always set a standard of motivation, respect, humanity and teamwork.”

Some of her notable projects include Tshukudu Multipurpose Community Centre Project for Glencore, upgrading Monakato Waste Water Works Treatment and internal roads in Marikana. Her organisation says some of these projects are a testament of Portia’s commitment to the municipality, community development and transformative initiatives.