Thabiso Jacqueline Maloa

What does your company do?

Olive Seed Group Pty Ltd is a multidisciplinary engineering, property, and project management services organization and also manages a non profit entity that focuses of getting a rural child educated, offers a comprehensive range of services. Here’s a detailed overview of what OSG Pty Ltd organization currently provide: Engineering Services Civil Engineering: Design and construction of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and water systems. Structural Engineering: Ensuring buildings and structures are safe and stable. Mechanical Engineering: Design and maintenance of mechanical systems. Electrical Engineering: Power systems design, including renewable energy solutions. Property Development: Planning and managing property development projects from inception to completion. Property Management: Overseeing day-to-day operations of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Valuation and Appraisal: Providing accurate property valuations for sales, purchases, and insurance purposes. Real Estate Consulting: Advising on market trends, investment opportunities, and property management strategies. Facility Management: Maintenance and management of building facilities to ensure operational efficiency and safety. Project Management Services Project Planning and Scheduling: Developing project timelines, resource allocation, and task management plans. Budgeting and Cost Control: Monitoring project budgets and ensuring cost-effective resource use. Risk Management: Identifying, analysing, and mitigating project risks. Quality Control: Ensuring projects meet required standards and specifications. Contract Management: Overseeing contract negotiations and ensuring compliance with terms and conditions. Stakeholder Management: Coordinating with stakeholders to ensure their needs and expectations are met. Nonprofit Organization Services Community Development: Projects aimed at improving the Louis Trichardt, Ravele Village and surrounding communities, including mentorship, sport, uniform, sationary, internet access, universty placement etc. Education and Training: Providing education and skill development programs as required by the community. OSG Pty Ltd is currently working on a 3 year goal to build a community library freely accessible to all for educational purposes. Research and Development: Conducting research on sustainable practices, innovative engineering solutions, and new management methodologies.

What is your biggest success?

My illustrious academic journey, crowned with an MSc in Construction Project Management from Wits University and a commendable series of qualifications from prestigious institutions like the University of Cape Town and Massachusetts Institute of Technology where she completed her Professional Development Courses in Real Estate Economics and Finance with Cum Laude from both renowned universities, underpins her expertise. An outstanding quality of my dedication to continuous learning and improvement. Actively seeking opportunities to enhance my skills and stay updated on industry trends. Beyond my professional skills, im collaborative team player with a proven track record of fostering positive and productive work environments. Her ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and engage with stakeholders at all levels underscores her leadership potential.My academic pursuits, including a focus on Megaprojects Implementation in the Energy Generation and Transmission infrastructure delivery, reflect my forward-thinking, dedication, passion and strategic approach to the challenges and opportunities within the Built Environment. My professional odyssey spans over 16 years, marked by significant positions such as Technical Director at Maanda Dimension Consulting Pty Ltd, and notable roles such as Portfolio Manager for Substations at Eskom Rotek Industries, and also as a Senior Lecturer for Advanced Diploma Real Estate Studies in the Building Science Department at Tshwane University of Technology where she obtained a 100% and 78% distinction rate in 2023. In each capacity, I demonstrated nothing short of excellence and dedication.I have not just filled roles; i have redefined them, steering billion-rand projects, directly managing and inspiring over 300 professionals, and setting benchmarks for excellence in Energy Infrastructure, Construction Services, Real Estate and the Built Environment as a whole. My notable successful involvement in megaprojects such as the Kusile Eskom Power station project, reflecting not only my technical prowess but also my innovative problem-solving skills. This also reflected a distinguished knowledge in the my MSc research topic: “The appetite to implement energy infrastructure megaprojects in south africa – Case Study Kusile and Medupi” It was through this tenure at Eskom where i demonstrated expectational leadership skills by leading multiple teams and successfully commissioning and delivering Transmission infrastructure projects portfolio over R1,2bn in 2022. The commissioning of this portfolio is currently contributing to the electricity grid and the first to be exceptionally delivered in over a decade within Eskom Rotek Industries and under her leadership and as a young female.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

Overcoming construction hurdles as a female in a male-dominated industry was challenging and had to work 3 times harder than my male counter parts, but with the right strategies and mindset, it's been entirely achievable. Herewith some of the sacrifies and considerations i had to develop to navigate and try succeed in the construction industry everyday: Building Confidence and Competence through Education and Training, I ensure that have the necessary qualifications, certifications, and continuous training to stay current with industry standards and innovations. Mentorship - i Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, support, and advice. A mentor can be invaluable in navigating the industry. I learn everyday. Experience: Gain as much hands-on experience as possible. Volunteering for challenging projects has helped me build my skills and reputation, still i continue and strive for better. I also Address physical challenges by leveraging technology and ergonomically designed tools. i don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when needed. As a professional, mom, wife and student, a Work-Life Balance is important to me, keeping fit helps all the tme. I Strive for a work-life balance that suits my personal and professional life and routine. Advocate for flexible working conditions if needed, this helps me manage my time well.