Construction World March 2016

NO DISTANCE TOO FAR

Laaiqa Shaik Habeeb, project manager: administration for building contractors, Tshenolo Resources, was based at this MBA North member's Mafikeng branch when the SBDC started in April 2015 and thereafter undertook the four hour trips to Midrand every second Saturday for six months. “They were long trips, about 370 kms to get to Midrand early on a Saturday morning , and then the same distance back again after the lectures around midday. But it was worth the effort,” Habeeb recalls. Nominated by her employers to attend the course, she immediately agreed. “I have been working mainly in an administrative capacity in the building industry for the past 16 years so I was keen to learn more about the technical aspects of construction. I found the course extremely beneficial and stimulating and now feel there is much room for me to grow in the industry – perhaps as consultant to assist in the project control of contracts, or even becoming a contractor myself in future.” Habeeb believes there is generally now far more potential for women to pursue careers in the building industry.“All that is needed is for us to grab the opportunities – and have belief in our abilities. I think I did well in the course because I am eager to increase my knowledge and learn new things. I also always set goals for myself and passing this course was a major one for me.” Chris Jennings of Eight J Construction, who has been the lecturer for The top student in last year's Master Builders Association (MBA) North Small Builders Development Course not only outperformed the men in her class, but also had to travel about 740 kms to attend each of the fortnightly classes in Midrand. >

Laaiqa Shaik Habeeb, top student for the MBA North's Small Builders Development Course 2015, receives her special award from course lecturer, Chris Jennings, while MBA North Education, training and trans- formation manager, Dr Deon Landmann, looks on.

the MBA North SBDC courses for several years, says there has recently been a steady increase in the number of women attending. “The 2015 class started with 13 women and 14 men. The women came from a variety of backgrounds: one was a travel agent close to retirement, another an ex-social worker who now wanted to become involved in building, and another the girlfriend of a man who specialised in 'putting contracts together'. “I would say the women who attended the 2015 course generally fared better – and were more dedicated – than the men, although there were some very promising male students as well.”

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD MARCH 2016