When Thoko Tshabalala-Shandu first registered for a Software Specialist Short Learning Programme (SLP) at Boston City Campus, she couldn’t have predicted where the path would lead. Today, she is the Managing Director of VEA Road Maintenance & Civils (Pty) Ltd, overseeing major infrastructure projects in road construction and civil engineering - fields often dominated by men.
Building a Career Through Education
Thoko’s academic journey has been a steady progression, all achieved at Boston. Starting with her Software Specialist qualification, she advanced to earn a Bachelor of Commerce in Management Marketing degree, an Advanced Diploma in Adaptive Leadership, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management. Now, she is pursuing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) with the same institution.
Looking back, she credits Boston with providing the flexibility and practical focus she needed to balance her studies with professional responsibilities. “Boston City Campus played a crucial role in preparing me for my career. From the start, I could apply what I learned directly to my work. The support from lecturers and mentors (sic), especially Zanele Ncai, gave me the confidence to push boundaries and achieve more than I imagined,” she shares.
More Than Qualifications: Leadership and Resilience
For Thoko, her time at Boston was not just about ticking boxes on the way to higher education. It was about building resilience, leadership capacity, and industry knowledge - skills that would empower her to thrive in one of South Africa’s toughest sectors. She credits Boston’s unique blend of flexibility, real-world curriculum, and mentorship for shaping her into the leader she is today.
Now at the helm of VEA Road Maintenance & Civils, Thoko is not only delivering world-class infrastructure but also investing in people and communities. “What I enjoy most about my work is creating lasting impact. Beyond building roads, my work is about building futures,” she explains.
Recognition and Awards
Her leadership approach has earned her and her company national recognition. She has received prestigious honours such as the ERWIC Award for Women in Construction and the BBQ Businesswoman of the Year Award. Thoko has also been celebrated as a Standard Bank Top Women Entrepreneur finalist and featured on platforms like eNCA.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Despite these accolades, Thoko remains grounded. Her focus is on inspiring others, particularly young women in South Africa, to believe in themselves and their potential. “Don’t be afraid to step into male-dominated spaces - you belong there. Find mentors, embrace challenges, and pursue your passion with perseverance,” she advises.
Inspiring the Next Generation
From a Software Specialist SLP to an MBA student, Thoko’s journey reflects the transformative power of education when matched with discipline and determination. For Boston City Campus, her story reinforces its mission: to deliver quality, flexible, and practical education that equips students not only for careers but also for leadership and impact.
“In construction and leadership, learning never stops,” Thoko reflects. “Boston gave me the foundation to begin, and it continues to give me the knowledge and skills to grow. That is the mark of an institution that truly prepares students for the future.”
Apply and Register at Boston City Campus
Are you ready to start your own journey? At Boston City Campus, flexible study options, practical learning, and robust student support help you build not just a career, but a legacy.
Explore our qualifications today and take the first step toward your future.