When the lights go out and generators kick in, few stop to think about the people making sure fuel is available on demand. Behind the scenes, one woman is shifting the dynamics of an industry often dominated by men. Her name is Jeniffer Manyelo, and through her company, Mahlaga Projects, she has been reshaping South Africa’s petroleum services for nearly two decades.
Building Mahlaga Projects from the ground up
What makes Jeniffer’s story remarkable is that she built Mahlaga Projects entirely on her own. She is not only the founder but also the sole employee of the company. From sourcing fuel directly from wholesalers to handling every delivery, she has turned a one-woman operation into a lifeline for municipalities, construction sites, and communities in need.
Her business model is both practical and purposeful. Mahlaga Projects supplies diesel on a call-out basis, ensuring that urgent demand is met quickly. From keeping construction machinery running to fuelling generators during load-shedding, her services are the invisible backbone that keeps people and projects moving.
Leading with courage in a tough industry
The oil and gas sector is known for its complexity and competitiveness. It has long been viewed as a man’s space, with entry often reserved for those with inherited access or deep-pocketed backing. Jeniffer Manyelo breaks that mould entirely.
She thrives in environments where most see only chaos. Instead of being intimidated by the scale of the petroleum field, she has carved out a niche with determination, skill, and courage. Her leadership proves that women can not only enter the industry but also excel in it, redefining its boundaries in the process.
Innovation with sustainability in mind
Mahlaga Projects is not just about supply. Jeniffer integrates safety and sustainability into every aspect of her work. By meeting global energy demands while still responding to local realities, she bridges the gap between international standards and South African community needs. Each delivery reflects a balance of efficiency and responsibility, showing that small businesses can operate with big-picture thinking.
More than an energy supplier
For clients, Mahlaga Projects is a reliable fuel partner. For communities, it is a lifeline during challenging times. And for women in business, it is a symbol of possibility. Jeniffer Manyelo’s journey is a reminder that resilience, vision, and courage matter as much as resources.
Her story is far from finished. With nearly two decades already behind her, she continues to prove that women can lead, innovate, and thrive in even the toughest of industries. Mahlaga Projects stands as a beacon of what can happen when passion meets purpose in the energy sector.
Source: Briefly News
Featured Image: Ariyan International Inc.
