Inspiration

Making the Most of It

Penny Modise was fortunate to have had a strong entrepreneurial influence in her life from an early age. With both parents having started businesses and established themselves, Penny had the good fortune of growing up around business orientated individuals. Having worked as a client liaison officer for a commercial bank Penny had the opportunity to develop valuable people skills. It was here that she began to understand the importance of investing in oneself, which would later become the most critical factor leading up to her success.

Penny had always believed in herself, after all her African name is “Phumulele” meaning success. Working in the finance sector showed her the mechanics of business and gave her the knowledge she required to realize her success. After attending a dinner at which the guest speaker was Nonhlanhla Mjoli Mncube, one of the founders of Women for Housing / Khuthaza, Penny became aware of the opportunities available to women in the construction industry. Penny had recently renovated her home, and in the process established contacts with a number of builders who had a wealth of experience and good building skills. Penny had been referring these contractors for jobs amongst her social network when she realized that this could be a great business opportunity. It was from that seed of inspiration that Penny’s business grew and soon began to thrive. Penny has been part of the Khuthaza family for several years and is also in her second year of the Re a abelana programme.

Penny understands the concept of risk and reward and makes a point of taking only calculated risks. One of the biggest obstacles has been raising capital for her projects. After winning her first two tenders Penny had to draw on all her experience to secure the finance required to deliver the work. Eventually her perseverance paid off and work began. Her first project was the renovation of the ablution block at Transwerk Langlaagte. She transformed the dilapidated building bringing it back to life. For Penny the real reward was seeing the heart-warming smiles of the men and women who use the facilities.

Penny specialises in renovations and has completed a number of projects including the building of an old age home in Soweto to the value of R3.5 million. She employs 10 artisans and 2 full time subcontractors for plumbing and electrical work.

Penny sees herself as a transformational leader and always listens carefully to what others say. When asked about her success she says “I identify positive ways to respond to my staff and create a platform for honest and powerful conversation. I believe in saying what’s real.”

Penny’s advice to other entrepreneurs is:

Look for opportunities and grab them with an open heart
Plan carefully – Specialize in a discipline and acquire knowledge thereof
Have real goals – without something to strive for life can become a grind
Most goals require money so have a financial plan to go with it
Partner with an organization such as Khuthaza - They have given me the foundation to start my business and continue to enhance my skills
Exercise discipline and self control
And finally, never compromise yourself!

Penny is another example of a great success and shows us that there is no such thing as a man’s world. She has made the most of the opportunities afforded to her and makes a meaningful contribution to the industry.