Meet Future of HR CEO of the Year Nomazibulo Tshanga
The winner of the Future of HR CEO of the Year award is someone who has prioritised the wellbeing and happiness of the people in their business, recognising that people are what makes an organisation great.
Partnerships that connect people and uplift communities
At VEA Road Maintenance and Civils, roads do more than connect cities — they connect people, create opportunities, and uplift entire communities. The company’s exceptional growth and success are built on invaluable partnerships with key clients like the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), the Department of Roads and Transport, the Western Cape Government and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport. Together with these partners, VEA Road Maintenance and Civils has built a reputation for excellence, highlighted by its consecutive Top 5 ranking in the South African Construction Sector for 2024, an honour it also achieved in 2023. Being ranked among the Top 500 best managed companies reflects the company’s relentless focus on quality, innovation, inclusion, and community impact. “We’re more than a road construction company,” says Thoko Tshabalala-Shandu, Managing Director. “Our vision is to use infrastructure as a tool for positive change. Without our strong relationships with clients and communities, our ability to make an impact would be limited.” VEA Road Maintenance and Civils’ partnerships enable the company to execute large-scale projects that not only improve infrastructure but also change lives. From creating jobs to developing skills and supporting local communities, their work goes far beyond the roads they build. One of the most significant collaborations is with SANRAL where VEA Road Maintenance and Civils has worked on major projects such as the N2, N12, and R23 highways. These projects have not only improved the road network but have also contributed to job creation and skills development within local communities. “SANRAL’s approach is holistic. They don’t just build roads – they ensure that the communities around the roads benefit too,” explains Thoko. “This commitment aligns perfectly with our mission to empower communities through infrastructure.” VEA Road Maintenance and Civils’ work with other esteemed clients has allowed it to contribute to regional growth by employing local labour and providing training in crucial technical skills. “For us, building roads is just the beginning,” says Thoko. “Each project is an opportunity to uplift communities and create long-term opportunities.” VEA Road Maintenance and Civils’ dedication to excellence and community upliftment has been recognised with its Top 5 ranking in South Africa’s Construction Sector for 2024, an honour it has now earned multiple times. This recognition places VEA Road Maintenance and Civils among the best 5 out of 500 companies in the sector, marking two consecutive years of maintaining this prestigious standing. VEA Road Maintenance and Civils’ recognition in the Top 5 ranking for the Construction Sector, an honour it has earned multiple times, reflects the organisation’s commitment to excellence and community upliftment. “Being in the Top 5 is about more than technical expertise or delivering on time,” says Thoko. “It’s about how we approach everything — from the partnerships we build to the way we engage with communities. Our success is deeply rooted in the people we work with — our team, our clients, and the communities we serve.” This continued recognition, two consecutive years running, is a direct result of VEA Road Maintenance and Civils’ focus on partnerships and community engagement. For example, the collaboration with SANRAL on projects like Operation Vala Zonke, a nation-wide pothole-fixing initiative, is a testament to the company’s community-centred approach. “We’ve been able to create jobs and provide training to local workers, thanks to the support of SANRAL and our other clients,” says Thoko. “Together, we’re building a brighter future for everyone involved.” VEA Road Maintenance and Civils’ commitment to community upliftment goes beyond infrastructure. Their involvement in initiatives like Mandela Day, where they extended their 67 minutes of service into an entire weekend, delivering supplies to schools and elderly homes, is just one example of their dedication. In the South African construction sector, diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important. VEA Road Maintenance and Civils is leading the way in this transformation, with a strong focus on gender diversity under the leadership of Thoko Tshabalala-Shandu. The company has created hundreds of opportunities for women in the construction industry, an area traditionally dominated by men. Thanks to partnerships with SANRAL, the Department of Roads and Transport, and other governmental bodies, VEA Road Maintenance and Civils is not only delivering high-quality infrastructure but also empowering women and young people through employment and training opportunities. “Our clients have been instrumental in helping us bring more women into the industry,” says Thoko. “We are opening doors that were once closed to women, and that’s something we are very proud of.” Contracts Manager Terry- Anne Hart adds, “Our partnerships with SANRAL and provincial governments enable us to promote diversity and inclusion. When organisations share a commitment to empowering underrepresented groups, the results are truly transformative.” This focus on community impact, diversity, and inclusion is one of the main reasons VEA Road Maintenance and Civils consistently ranks in the Top 5. Their ability to deliver exceptional infrastructure while empowering communities sets them apart from their competitors. “Our roads are more than just infrastructure,” concludes Thoko. “They are bridges to better futures. None of this would be possible without our incredible partners, whose shared commitment to building a better South Africa perfectly aligns with ours.” Georgina, a site agent in VEA Road Maintenance and Civils, shares her perspective on managing over 700 workers and navigating the challenges that come with such a responsibility. “Managing this many people comes with its challenges, like conflict resolution, labour disputes, and ensuring everyone knows their role,” Georgina explains. “A good manager needs to be solution-oriented. I believe in addressing issues immediately, then revisiting the cause to prevent it from happening again.” Georgina’s leadership style is built on an open-door policy and team empowerment. “I always encourage my team to suggest solutions, not just report problems. This creates accountability and ensures quicker conflict resolution,” she says. Her approach ensures that VEA Road Maintenance and Civils not only maintains high-quality delivery but also fosters a positive and collaborative work environment. At VEA Road Maintenance and Civils, they don’t just build roads — they build opportunities. With the support of partners
Miskyah Toth, CEO, Business Directive Contract Services
“Your greatest achievements often align with your greatest challenges.” BDCS is your all-in-one workforce management partner, specialising in the supply chain and logistics sector. We provide efficient, cost-effective staffing solutions, powered by innovative technology and a people-first approach. From recruiting and training top talent to handling payroll, HR, and statutory requirements, BDCS ensures that operations run smoothly. With a focus on streamlining operations, reducing costs, and boosting efficiency, we help businesses access pre-vetted workers on demand while staying compliant with labour regulations. Our mobile app empowers the workforce by offering easy access to pay slips, leave management, and payroll queries, allowing companies to scale confidently and adjust to changing demands. Miskyah Toth founded Business Directive Development Group (Pty) Ltd in 2012; eight years later an opportunity arose to purchase a contract with a leading South African online retailer. At that stage, more than 250 people were employed by the company. Business Directive Development Group (Pty) Ltd purchased the contract and Miskyah then created Business Directive Contract Services (Pty) Ltd (BDCS) to manage the contract of BDCS’s functions as a separate entity, under the auspices of Business Directive Development Group (Pty) Ltd. To put things into perspective, the outbreak of COVID-19 began in Wuhan, China in December 2019 – so the purchase of this contract was made at the beginning of the global pandemic.“I was, however, very comfortable with my decision. It allowed me to think outside the box and it allowed me to think bigger. We’ve since expanded our services, providing more tailored solutions, and empowering businesses and job seekers through comprehensive, personalised recruitment and career management strategies,” – Miskyah Toth. We asked Miskyah to share with us what it takes to be a game changer in the HR realm: Iron in silk After years of dedication and sacrifice, I have earned recognition on a global stage. In 2024, CIO Views named me one of Africa’s 10 Most Empowering Businesswomen. I was awarded Female Entrepreneur Coach of the Year in South Africa by MEA Markets and honoured as the Top Global Business Leader by the International Association of Top Professionals. Additionally, I was chosen as The Women Leader of the Year in Human Resource Management by the Asian-African Chamber of Commerce and Industry and selected as 1 of the 100 Most Influential Women in South Africa. As described, ‘Iron in Silk’ – is “strength enveloped by beauty and grace”. These accolades are a testament to overcoming significant challenges, including managing over 500% growth in just four years and navigating the complexities of running a large company as the sole female owner. Maintaining my health and balance amidst these responsibilities has also been a crucial challenge. What is your ‘why”? My “why” is simple – to empower people. Whether it’s helping someone land their dream job, supporting businesses with their recruitment needs, or mentoring young entrepreneurs, my purpose is to uplift others. This message stems from my own life experiences, including the challenges I faced as a businesswoman and single mother. I’ve always believed that with the right support, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve success. I founded BDCS to create opportunities and provide that support to others, particularly in South Africa, where high unemployment rates make empowerment through job creation so crucial. Miskyah.com Miskyah.com is a platform that showcases my journey, insights, and expertise as a leader and entrepreneur. It is a space where I can share my thoughts on business, empowerment, and personal growth. Through this platform, I also aim to connect with aspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone looking for inspiration or guidance. Miskyah.com offers a blend of personal stories, business tips, and reflections on leadership. It’s also a place where I promote my autobiography Iron in Silk, which delves deeper into my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned throughout my life and career. Through this platform, I provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. My “Let’s Talk Business” series is designed to share real-world insights, helping individuals turn their ideas into thriving businesses. Additionally, my “Women for Change” initiative is a space where women can find inspiration, mentorship, and community support to pursue their dreams. I am passionate about coaching and developing entrepreneurs, equipping them with the strategies and confidence to navigate their entrepreneurial journey with resilience and success. The most important game-changing trends in HR? Technology, particularly AI, is revolutionising HR. AI-driven recruitment tools streamline hiring, ensuring faster and more precise candidate matching. Additionally, hybrid work models are here to stay, with flexibility becoming a key factor in employee satisfaction. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are also transforming the workplace, emphasising the importance of creating inclusive environments where all employees can thrive. Lastly, mental health and well-being are taking center stage as companies recognise the need to support employees beyond their professional roles. HR leaders must adapt to these trends to stay competitive and cultivate thriving future-ready workplaces. What does securing the naming rights for the Future of HR Conference and Awards mean to you and your company? Securing the naming rights for The Future of HR Conference and Awards is a significant milestone for BDCS. It reflects our dedication to driving innovation in HR and our commitment to being at the forefront of industry trends. This partnership allows us to showcase our leadership in HR recruitment, while also contributing to the ongoing conversation about the future of work. It’s an opportunity to highlight our values – empowerment, technology integration, and talent development – on a larger scale, while also creating meaningful connections with other industry leaders who share our vision for the future of HR. Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs My biggest piece of advice is to stay resilient. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with highs and lows, and success often comes from how well you handle challenges. Always be willing to learn and adapt because the business world is constantly evolving. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you, but don’t be afraid to make tough decisions