Limpopo born Lethaha Madima used the skills he learnt at Anglo American’s information, communication and technology (ICT) learnership to enhance his business acumen as the founder of MJF investments.
Madima founded MJF Investments in 2021, which now provides solar and construction, and cybersecurity services.
Madima’s company also offers free business incubation to support emerging entrepreneurs.
Although boasting a few years in entrepreneurship, Madima decided to join the learnership in 2022 in which he acquired technical skills in programming, database management and system administration.
The ICT programme enabled Madima to expand his business acumen by tapping into the construction and solar energy sectors.
Madima immediately pursued accreditation in solar system installation and construction after completing the learnership.
This positioned him at the intersection of sustainable energy solutions and community development through MJF Investments.
Among other business milestones, MJF Investments is behind the construction of Nando’s Musina and has been securing several maintenance contracts.
“The programme gave me the confidence and skills to transform not just my own situation, but to create opportunities for others as well,” said Madima.
Madima’s construction company continues to develop his community in Musina by creating employment for locals.
“Over the past two years, MJF Investments has successfully onboarded 20 new team members across various roles, five of whom are full-time, and 15 of whom are regular part-time workers.
“These additions reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening our workforce and meeting the demands of our growing customer base,” he said.
Madima envisions MJF Investments as a global leader in the construction sector, while maintaining its strong community focus.
“The programme was a transformative experience. It equipped me with practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for the ICT field, giving me the confidence to tackle real-world challenges and pursue my career goals,” said Madima.
Anglo American’s Education and Community Skills manager, Peggy Maphanga, mentioned Madima’s story aligned with the company’s commitment to youth and skills development.
Anglo American aims to eradicate unemployment, poverty and inequality in its host communities.
Anglo American’s education programme targets Quintile 1 to 3 non-fee paying schools in Limpopo, North West and the Northern Cape.
The learnership extends to post-matric for youth aged 18–23 who show promise in English, Mathematics and Science in their senior schooling years.
“Lethaha’s journey exemplifies our belief that by equipping young people with relevant skills, we can contribute to poverty reduction while creating a more adaptable and productive workforce.
“His ability to identify opportunities, create sustainable business solutions and give back to his community perfectly demonstrates the transformative impact we aim to achieve through our youth development initiatives.
“We hope his story will serve as an inspiration to other young entrepreneurs in Limpopo and beyond, showing how the right combination of opportunity, skills development and determination can lead to meaningful change,” said Maphanga.
The Star