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MANDISA PEPETA

andisa Pepeta, founder of Qhakaza Africa WORKING INDEPENDENTLY Reflecting on her challenges, Mandisa recounts her
Consulting, shares her journey into struggle with language as a Xhosa speaker entering
the world of architecture and property After qualifying, she worked for various architects, an English-dominated field. “I could write English but
M development. Her company provides primarily serving higher-income clients, but noticed struggled to speak it. I had to read a lot, watch TV, and
architectural services and property development a gap in services for low-income and township practice. There was a time when my children asked
solutions, catering to a range of clients, including communities. “Some clients would approach me why I didn’t speak much Xhosa with them. I felt guilty,
individual homeowners, property developers, after hours and on weekends for services that my but I told them it was because I was busy learning
government entities, and corporates. employer did not provide,” she explains. Faced with English,” she explains.
a decision to stay employed or be in business on her
Mandisa explains, “Part of our service involves own, Mandisa chose to pursue her business. “I wasn’t Running a business was another challenge, as she had
taking a brief from a client who wants to build a exposed to the full spectrum of architectural services architectural training but no formal business skills.
particular facility. We assess the site’s suitability, in my employed role, but working independently “I had to learn about the financial side of business
consider the zoning constraints according to the allowed me to offer much more.” It was a bold step, through training, workshops, and mentorships,” she
municipality, and ensure that the site is appropriate she admits: “When I ventured out on my own, I didn’t says. The support from more experienced professionals
for their intended project.” Once the feasibility is tell my mother or friends, as I wasn’t ready for anyone was crucial to overcoming these hurdles.
established, Qhakaza Africa Consulting designs to discourage me. I had no experience running a
the project, submits it for municipal approval, and business and was taking a risk, but it has paid off.” LEARN CONTINUOUSLY
remains involved in the construction management
process. Mandisa adds, “We ensure that whatever In terms of professional inspiration, Mandisa draws For young women starting out, Mandisa advises,
is planned and designed is built to quality, within motivation from those who pursue quality. “I have “You must learn continuously and seek out mentors
budget, and on time. We are always on the client’s met many people who approach their work with – people who have walked the path before you.
side, making sure the builder constructs the facility competence and excellence. That always inspires me Competence brings confidence, the more you know,
according to the plans.” to do my best,” she says. the more confident you become in your work.”
She stresses the importance of refining skills and
Originally from Bizana in the Eastern Cape, Mandisa A significant part of Mandisa’s work involves educating maintaining a commitment to learning.
pursued her schooling there before attending the clients about architectural processes. “Most people
former ML Sultan Technikon, where she qualified in aren’t familiar with architectural services. They may Looking ahead, Mandisa’s aspirations are centred
architecture. She admits that architecture was not not understand how their homes came to be or what around influence within the architectural and
her initial career choice, explaining, “I initially wanted is required for other projects,” she explains. She often property development sectors. “I’ve realised that the
to study drama, but I wasn’t audible enough, and my educates clients about environmental factors, zoning people who can make significant changes are those
English wasn’t very good, so I couldn’t get in. It was a regulations, and site limitations, such as floodplains in decision making positions. I am always seeking
blessing in disguise, as it led me to architecture.” or areas where building a crèche is prohibited due to opportunities to have a seat at the table,” she states.
traffic and noise concerns. “The educational aspect of Her goal is to be more involved in decision-making
She had been uncertain about her career path after my work is what I enjoy the most,” she adds. processes, particularly those that can address
the setback in drama, and even considered studying industry challenges.
computers before friends suggested architecture or Mandisa is a strong advocate for addressing injustices
town planning due to her artistic flair. “In the first in the industry, representing those without a seat at Outside of her professional life, Mandisa is a mother.
weeks of studying architecture, we had orientation the table. Her advocacy work has led her to become “I spend a lot of time with my children, which helps
to understand what the field was about, and I was involved in various professional bodies, including the me relax. I used to work long hours, but now I make
hooked from then on,” she recalls. architectural community within the eThekwini region sure to reserve time for my family,” she says. She
and the South African Council for the Architectural enjoys playing tennis and jogging when possible,
Mandisa’s interest in drama was driven by the Profession, where she serves as a board member. “I got prioritising a balanced life.
influence she associated with being on TV, but she there because of my advocacy,” she says. “There are
found a different form of influence through her work many people who don’t get the same opportunities, Mandisa’s story is one of determination, with a focus
in architecture. “Although I didn’t end up in the media and I aim to be the voice for them.” She recognises on education, advocacy, and continuous growth.
space, I’ve achieved the influence I sought because that individuals from certain backgrounds may feel Her journey illustrates the power of taking risks,
architecture is also about impacting people’s lives,” timid in professional settings, and she is committed embracing learning, and striving for excellence in
she reflects. to amplifying their voices. every endeavour.
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