Valentia Mkhabela discussed women’s empowerment in business during prime-time radio interview
On August 11, 2025, Siyanqoba Ngamandla Holdings Founder and Group CEO Valentia Mkhabela appeared on Ukhozi FM’s popular afternoon show “Dankie 1223”, delivering a timely message about encouraging women in business during Women’s Month.
Speaking to Ukhozi FM’s hosts King Sfiso, Mkhabela addressed the station’s diverse audience of working-class listeners, people living with disabilities, and peri-urban communities – demographics that align closely with Siyanqoba’s commitment to inclusive economic empowerment.
Strategic Platform for Empowerment Message
The interview timing proved particularly significant, as Women’s Month provided the perfect backdrop for Mkhabela to share insights from her journey building a diversified industrial holding company with five subsidiaries spanning engineering, mining & logistics, energy, security, and finance services.
“Dankie 1223” reaches audiences described as “Afropolitan” – young, urban, and culturally savvy individuals with global outlooks, as well as aspirational rural and peri-urban communities. This audience profile mirrors Siyanqoba’s target demographic for both employment opportunities and community development initiatives.
Company Positioning and Thought Leadership
For Siyanqoba Ngamandla Holdings, the radio appearance represented more than just a Women’s Month engagement. The interview positioned Mkhabela as a thought leader in the transformation space, speaking directly to communities where the company could operate and recruit.
Ukhozi FM, known for its authentic and aspirational programming environment, aligned with Siyanqoba’s brand values of genuine empowerment rather than performative transformation initiatives.
Building on Recent Recognition
The radio interview follows Mkhabela’s recognition as Job Creator of the Year 2024 at the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, reinforcing her credentials as a business leader who translates empowerment rhetoric into tangible employment opportunities.
During the interview, Mkhabela drew on her experience leading a company that operates across traditionally male-dominated industries, offering practical insights for women looking to enter or advance in similar sectors.
Industry Impact and Future Implications
The appearance on Ukhozi FM’s afternoon slot demonstrated how business leaders can leverage media platforms to extend their influence beyond boardrooms and conference halls, reaching the communities most directly impacted by their empowerment initiatives.
For Siyanqoba Ngamandla Holdings, the interview served multiple strategic purposes: reinforcing the company’s commitment to women’s advancement, building brand recognition in key markets, and establishing Mkhabela’s voice in public discourse around economic transformation.
The timing during Women’s Month ensured the message resonates within broader national conversations about gender equality and women’s economic participation, positioning the company as an active contributor to these critical discussions.
Siyanqoba Ngamandla Holdings operates five subsidiaries focused on resourcing innovation while empowering growth across South Africa’s industrial sectors.
