Hlengiwe Koza, the chief operations officer at Total Serve Facilities Management, navigated an unexpected path into the built environment sector. Initially uninterested in property management, she became captivated by the sector's potential. Her diverse educational background, including a BBA from IMM Graduate School and various certifications, has been pivotal in her career.
Total Serve's services extend beyond standard maintenance, focusing on creating safe, healthy environments, especially post-Covid. Despite challenges in the male-dominated field, Hlengiwe emphasizes proving capability through high-quality work and continuous learning. She aims to expand into construction and project management, questioning traditional approaches to space utilization.
Hlengiwe co-leads Total Serve with CEO Thandeka Mngomezulu, highlighting their complementary skills and mutual support. The company’s growth over 11 years reflects its impact, with a focus on community initiatives through the Ink Foundation. Hlengiwe advises young women to prioritize self-affirmation over external validation and underscores the importance of rest. Looking ahead, she envisions competing with industry giants, continuously evolving alongside her ambitions.
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