27 February 2025
Build It graduate Evelyn Malunga has carved out a successful career in construction.
From overcoming scepticism to earning her place as the first female supervisor in a construction company, Evelyn’s journey is one of vision, resilience and determination. Read her story:
Being a mother, I needed a stable income to support my family. Before joining Build It, I worked as a house help for two years. I could see how people in the construction industry were earning and providing for their families, and I too wanted that financial freedom. That was my motivation to join the industry, despite it being a male-dominated field.
Through Build It’s training programme, which I joined in 2021, I managed to acquire the skills that gave me the financial freedom I longed for. Before joining the industry, I thought construction was a challenging career for women – but I was determined to learn and succeed. I wanted to challenge the status quo and prove that women can exist and excel in this field.
My family was hesitant about my decision. My brother especially opposed it, being of the opinion that construction was only for men and that I wouldn’t manage. However my mother encouraged me, citing her own experience as a female security guard. Seeing how passionate I was, they eventually supported me.
The community I come from, and I imagine like many others, was also not very welcoming of the idea. People would say: “Leave some jobs for the men”. But there’s enough space for everyone. Others thought that construction was not a suitable career for a woman.
But I remained focused on my training and proving myself through my work. Over time, both my family and community became proud of my achievements, seeing the positive impact of my career. My mother lost her job when her company closed, but I can support her along with my two children who are in school.
After being certified as a bricklayer, I found work at Iridium Construction.
I remember my first day at work – I felt very out of place, but a contractor onsite told me how he had previously worked with female workers and encouraged me to just focus on my work. Some colleagues were convinced that I wouldn’t manage the work, but some friendly ones helped me fit in with the rest of the team.
My boss saw my potential and entrusted me with a supervisory role. I was the first ever female supervisor at the company. Some thought I wouldn’t perform well, but I put my best foot forward and took on the role.
I’ve been in the role three years now. The current project I’ve been working on gives me great pride. I have been on this project from the beginning, and now we are doing the finishes on eight flats and two double-story buildings. I’m so proud when I look at the progress and how beautiful this project has turned out.
I can’t say it’s been an easy journey. There were moments, especially in the beginning when I felt discouraged and wanted to give up. Sometimes even now I feel like my abilities are doubted just because I’m a woman. I need to prove my competence and credibility again and again. But I’ve stayed motivated, worn my leadership hat and remind myself of my goals, and the many people rooting for me.
I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from Build It, as they continued to train more women like me. I feel a level of responsibility to pave way for the incoming young women in the industry by setting an example for them.
So, I have never stopped working hard, and I am most proud of who I have become and what I have achieved. I hope one day to own my own construction company.
I urge men in the industry to support women. Women bring value, and teamwork benefits everyone. Some men objectify women onsite rather than seeing them as colleagues. This mindset must change. Everyone deserves respect. Women are here to work just like everyone else.Â
Female leadership in construction is growing. More women are taking on leadership roles. But to create more opportunities, we need more training and mentorship programmes, as well as continuing to challenge the stereotypes and biases that exist in the industry.Â
I encourage women to consider a career in construction. The key is to be determined, focused and willing to learn. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. With hard work and perseverance, we can succeed in this field.Â
