When the Ahmed Al-Kadi private hospital is completed come March next year, among those patting themselves on the back will be 40 women.
As more and more women make inroads in an industry dominated by men, four of them say their experiences have been both interesting and rewarding.
Quantity surveyor Shazia Asmal, 27, from Merebank, said she initially felt intimidated but gradually found her feet.
Driven by success, she also handles the project’s financial costing.
“I am motivated by success, and no matter what challenges come my way in the profession, I am determined to overcome them,” she said.
Mother of one Zama Khoza, 26, is involved in the plastering work.
“I am tasked with applying Rhinolite after the plaster is applied on the walls in order to make the walls smooth,” she said. “Many people say I am doing a man’s job but I enjoy it. It’s different and I have learnt a lot about construction while working on this project.”
Junior architect Hafsa Kader, 27, said knowing she was making a difference in the community kept her moti-vated.
“This is my first major project. I have been involved in the drafting and designing of the hospital and it has been an amazing experience. I feel like I am coming to work to fulfil a purpose,” she said,
Brick layer Tabile Mthembu said she wore her hard hat with pride.
“Growing up, we were taught that certain jobs were for men and others were for women, but that has all changed. I am proud that I can stand head-to-head with my male colleagues.”
The 32-year-old said her greatest motivation was her children, Zoliswa, 8, and Ayabonga, 2.
Hospital project co-ordinator Suraiya Vaizie said a total of 40 women were working on the hospital construction in various roles.
“The principal contractor, Liviero Building, supports women in the construction industry and has employed (female) bricklayers, plasterers and quantity surveyors.”
The general purpose hospital in Mayville, funded by the Islamic Medical Association, will have 160 beds.