Independent Girls Business Enterprise Pty Ltd
What does your company do?
IGBE Pty Ltd is a proudly South African, 100% black woman-owned construction and project management company founded by Feziwe Mpaku in 2014. The company specializes in a wide range of services including:General building constructionProject management and consultingCivil works and infrastructure developmentRenovations and maintenanceCommunity upliftment projectsIGBE is known not only for its technical excellence and successful project delivery, but also for its commitment to economic transformation—particularly by empowering women in the construction value chain. Over 90% of its suppliers are women-owned businesses, reflecting its mission to create inclusive growth and long-term social impact through every project it undertakes.
What is your biggest success?
Our biggest success at IGBE Pty Ltd has been building a sustainable, award-winning construction company that champions women empowerment in a male-dominated industry. Since our founding in 2014, we have successfully completed numerous high-impact projects, including community facilities and school infrastructure while ensuring over 90% of our suppliers are women-owned businesses. In 2024, we were honored with two prestigious CIDB ERWIC Awards: the Project Excellence Delivery Award and the Women Youth-Owned Entity Award, affirming our commitment to excellence, empowerment, and transformation. These milestones reflect not only our technical capability but also our dedication to creating lasting social value.
What has been your biggest hurdle?
Our biggest hurdle at IGBE Pty Ltd has been navigating the challenges of being a black woman-owned business in the male-dominated construction industry. Gaining trust, accessing funding, and breaking through entrenched industry networks required resilience, perseverance, and unwavering belief in our vision. Early on, we faced skepticism from potential clients and suppliers, and securing large-scale projects was a constant uphill battle. However, by consistently delivering quality work, building strong relationships, and empowering other women through our supply chain, we gradually earned respect and recognition. These challenges shaped us into a stronger, more determined company committed to excellence and transformation.
