Indrani Govender’s phoenix story: Establishing Ricinz Construction to create opportunity

With steady dedication, she climbed the ranks to managerial positions, spending 25 years in retail. By the age of 29, she was a single mother, balancing the demands of parenthood and her role as a sales manager. Despite these challenges, she was determined to change her destiny and provide a better life for her children. This early foundation of perseverance would later become instrumental in shaping her entrepreneurial spirit.

Founding Ricinz Construction

Life threw multiple curveballs at Indrani, but her resilience shone through. A devastating car accident on her way to management training left her on crutches. The subsequent trauma of armed robberies inflicted severe PTSD and depression. However, these challenges, rather than defeating her, ignited a fierce determination to overcome adversity and help others. This turning point marked a pivotal moment in her life as she began to channel her pain into a purpose.

Part of that purpose was being driven by a desire to create a positive impact. Indrani ventured into the construction industry in 2010. Her entrepreneurial spirit, combined with a strong educational foundation from the National Home Builders Registration Council and the Gordon Institute of Business Science, propelled her to success. At 52, she achieved the remarkable feat of ranking second out of 100 businesses in her cohort. While construction was the primary focus, Indrani's path to telecommunications was certainly not the norm.

"My path to telecommunications was unconventional. A chance encounter sparked my interest in the industry. I was asked if I did microwaves, and I said yes, thinking they were referencing a kitchen appliance,” she emphasises. “I was shocked to find myself looking at a cellphone tower. I said I would find the people who could do this and deliver an excellent job, and I did just that. After years of professional development, I successfully became a supplier for Vodacom, and I am now overseeing fibre installation in four prominent Cape Town malls and complexes, along with clients like Sun International." Despite having been advised to specialise, Indrani had other plans for Ricinz.

This strategic decision has allowed Ricinz Construction to grow through challenges and thrive, offering various services to meet diverse client needs. Innovator Trust has been instrumental in Ricinz’s growth, providing resources, training, and mentorship. “The support from Innovator Trust has been so practical and such a blessing,” states Indrani. They’ve provided the tools and guidance necessary to elevate my business and keep me inspired.” This partnership has helped establish an environment of growth and has encouraged Indrani to empower others.

Passion for job creation and community impact

Indrani's vision for Ricinz Construction extends far beyond profit. She is passionate about equipping and training others, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and the youth. Her personal experience of elevating lives through employment has reinforced her belief in the metamorphic power of business.

Despite facing gender-related biases, Indrani's determination and talent have earned her the respect of many in the industry. Her advice to aspiring women in the ICT sector highlights the importance of innovation, collaboration, and a strong vision, which have been essential to her own success and are vital to Ricinz’s development into the future.

Future vision and goals

Looking ahead, Indrani envisions Ricinz Construction as a driving force for job creation and social responsibility. Her commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and sustainable practices demonstrates her forward-thinking approach to business. With an invitation to the Norwegian International Entrepreneur Conference, Indrani lives the Ricinz motto: “we rise by raising others.” By building people and inculcating a culture of empowerment, she is building a legacy that extends far beyond the company she founded.

Through Ricinz Construction, Indrani transformed adversity into opportunity, driven by a commitment to a purpose far more significant than her story alone.

For more information, please visit the Facebook page: Ricinz Construction.