Business
34
Hyundai Automotive South Africa
Website
Katleho Mahapa, 34, is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in the automotive industry in South Africa. She is the national marketing manager at Hyundai Automotive South Africa, where she has played a key role in driving the company’s growth and success.
Katleho is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality in the workplace. She was selected to attend the High Potentials Leadership programme at Harvard Business School, in the US, where she gained valuable insight and skills. Katleho is also involved in mentoring and coaching young professionals, helping to prepare the next generation of leaders.
“I am a catalyst for change, challenging the status quo and breaking down barriers to build a brighter future,” Katleho says. “Despite facing adversity and pushing against the societal norms in my community, I’ve shown that success is achievable when we stay true to ourselves and pursue our passions with discipline, focus, and unwavering self-belief.”
- MBA candidate, 2023
- Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, General Management GIBS Business School, 2022
- High Potential Leadership Programme, Harvard Business School, Boston, 2022
- Executive Development Programme (top three achiever), Henley Business School Africa, 2019
- BPhil Honours, marketing management, IMM Graduate School of Marketing 2012-2014
- BA, marketing communications, University of Johannesburg, 2008-2010
- Driving Organic Search with Hyundai Automotive Bronze Bookmark Award, 2021
- Marketing: SEO & PPC Assegai Award, 2021
- Silver Pendoring, 2020
- Hyundai Global Marketing Awards first runner-up, 2019
- Hyundai Gi10 Silver Apex Award, 2019
- Hyundai Top Achiever 2018
One of my fondest childhood memories is when I was announced as head girl in primary school. The pride in my family’s eyes was overwhelming, especially when my headmistress described me as tenacious. Since then, my mother has used this word to describe me and it has driven me to achieve great things.
Trust the process, work hard and remember to enjoy the journey. You deserve everything you believe you should achieve, because if not you, then who? Keep pushing forward, stay focused and don’t forget to celebrate your successes. Believe in yourself and stay true to your goals and values.
My vision for South Africa in the next five years is one of progress and prosperity, where every citizen has equal access to opportunities, regardless of their background or circumstances. In my dream South Africa, youth and underserved communities have improved access to employment, and a quality education system is available to all.
I believe that more investment in our country’s development is crucial to ensure a thriving and prosperous economy. This will create new job opportunities and provide the foundation for growth and innovation in all industries. As a result, South Africa will become an even more attractive place for foreign investment and global talent.
However, economic growth alone is not enough. I believe in a South Africa with zero tolerance for violence against women and children, where everyone can feel safe and secure. To achieve this, we need to prioritise education and awareness and enforce strict legal consequences for perpetrators of violence.
My ultimate vision for South Africa is a society where all its citizens can enjoy more joy and prosperity, with ample opportunities for growth and development. I believe in showcasing South African talent across all industries to the world, highlighting our country’s unique and diverse culture, and fostering a sense of pride in our nation’s achievements.
As a South African, I am hopeful and optimistic about our country’s future. With a commitment to progress and a willingness to work together, we can build a better South Africa that we can all be proud of.