Raksha Laghari, director, co-founder, and CEO of AML Group, has built a thriving business empire. With ventures ranging from cement distribution to mining and logistics, her story is one of hard work, vision, and an unyielding commitment to growth.
Raksha’s journey with AML started off as a cement wholesaling and distribution company dealing with local giants like Afrisam and PPC. But she explains, “We quickly branched off into other locally produced hardware and construction materials.” This expansion included collaborations with brands such as Marley Roofing, Etex Building Systems, and Corobrik.
Over time, AML diversified its portfolio to include a logistics division. What began with just two trucks has grown into a premium fleet of over 50. “Today, our logistics division is extremely crucial to our core business because you can’t get materials to customers without a truck,” she states proudly.
The expansion didn’t stop there. AML also entered the mining industry, with a focus on dolerite production in Northern Natal, supplying construction projects across the region. Raksha beams with pride as she describes their success: “We are one of the few suppliers of dolerite in the area.” AML has further diversified into the ready-mix concrete business, a sector where they have earned a reputation for premium quality.
Testament to Growth
Perhaps the most significant testament to AML’s growth is its venture into construction and real estate. The company has firmly established itself across multiple sectors, with Raksha at the helm, guiding the business through its various stages of development.
Raksha’s academic background has played a pivotal role in her business success. With a BA Law degree from the University of Natal and further studies in Dublin, where she qualified as a legal executive, she attributes much of her journey to the skills gained from her education. “I have this firm belief that if you can read and comprehend, you can do anything,” she says. “As long as you can understand what is before you in an educated manner, you will probably be able to equip yourself with the skill set required for any endeavour.”
This philosophy has guided her through the many challenges of building a business from scratch. Raksha is quick to point out that she didn’t come from a privileged financial position. “We didn’t start with money behind us,” she explains. “The journey has been about finding a vision, realising our goals, and adapting our strategies to forge ahead.”
“In the beginning, I didn’t have the vision I see myself living today,” she admits. “But once one vision was accomplished, a new one emerged, and with it, new challenges. That’s how AML has grown.”
For Raksha, AML is not just a business. “I don’t see AML as just a company,” she explains. “I often talk about my AML family because I’m highly motivated by them. I want to keep them all employed, growing, and happy.” Her leadership style is rooted in the belief that success comes from empowering the people around her, a lesson she credits to her first employer, Niall Sharon. “Niall taught me to grow the people around you and make them feel important,” she recalls.
This sense of responsibility also stems from her relationship with her father, who was her first role model. “He never held me back from asking questions,” Raksha reflects. “We would often talk about bank documents and legal jargon when I was just 10 years old. Watching him overcome challenges inspired me to follow in his footsteps.”
Growing a Legacy
Raksha’s determination to leave a legacy behind has always been at the forefront of her mind. “Whether it’s a small or big legacy. I wasn’t sure at the outset,” she confesses. “But as the business grew, the legacy grew with it.”
Operating in male-dominated industries like construction, logistics, and mining, Raksha has faced her share of challenges. “There are very few women in these sectors in South Africa,” she acknowledges. “In the early days, it was harder to be taken seriously. But with time, perseverance, and knowledge, you make inroads.”
Raksha’s commitment to understanding every aspect of her business has been a key factor in overcoming these challenges. “Elon Musk once said you don’t need to know everything to build a business—you just need to employ people who do. But I’ve never agreed with that statement,” she asserts. “You need to have the fundamental knowledge to operate your business, and once you understand that you can bring in professionals to help you grow.”
One of her greatest achievements, she believes, is becoming one of the few female miners in South Africa. “The mining industry was completely new to me two years ago,” she admits. “But I’ve learned every aspect of that business—from managing the workforce to the machinery we use. I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve also learned from them.”
The Next Vision
Looking to the future, Raksha asks, “Why do we need to import nails from China when we have the resources to produce them locally?” My next vision is to support South African companies and invest in local production to reduce our reliance on imports.”
Raksha’s advice to young women entering the business world is grounded in realism. “Be prepared for hard work, sleepless nights, and equipping yourself with new skills,” she advises. “It’s all about you in the beginning days, and no matter how much effort you put in, you’ll probably feel like it’s never enough. But if you persevere, you will eventually see the fruits of your labour.”
She encourages women to embrace failure as part of the journey. “The people who stand forward in this race are the ones who understand that one failure is just a stepping stone to another success.”
Raksha’s journey with AML is not over. “I feel like I’m just getting started,” she admits. “There’s so much more I want to do in South Africa, for South Africa.” With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to her family, community, and business, Raksha is undoubtedly shaping a lasting legacy.
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