BUSINESS AND TRAINING 13
Walking her own path
Supplied by
BluLever Education, edited by Tanya Olckers
Aneza Ruxwana’ s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, skill and showing up fully in spaces where you’ re least expected. She shares her journey in her own words.
To be honest, this wasn’ t my ideal profession. After completing my N6 in Civil and Building Construction, I hoped to become a quantity surveyor. But when BluLever presented the plumbing apprenticeship opportunity, I took it with both hands.
All images supplied by BluLever Education
One of the main challenges I faced was being judged based on my appearance. I’ d be seen carrying a step ladder and contractors would ask me,“ Are you going to use that ladder? Will you be able to?” These kinds of questions made me feel like I didn’ t belong. But I reminded myself why I was there. I affirmed my purpose and focused on doing my job well, and my work began to speak for me.
During my first EBLI was shifted to the finishing team. We had to mount toilet pans, seats, cisterns, discharge pipes, etc. I Future fixer Aneza Ruxwana
approached the task like the girl they thought I was, and I installed everything successfully with no leaks. My space was clean and neat, showing that a female hand had passed through. The outcome? I was given more.
The most rewarding aspect has been how I’ ve developed vocally, being able to advocate for my feelings and thoughts freely and unapologetically, something I never had before.
It motivates me to see women in the plumbing industry because it shows I’ m in the right place, surrounded by people who want to see me grow.
As a woman, give me the benefit of the doubt. Don’ t dismiss me, at least let me show you what I can do. PA
Aneza is always prepared for the job at hand.
Aneza’ s advice: Determination goes a long way. Know what you’ re here for and always remind yourself why you started this journey. Never get caught up in site or workplace politics; you won’ t win. Be clever, but keep it to yourself, or you’ ll attract unnecessary attention and enemies. In everything you do, be intentional; you’ ll be happier for it.
September 2025 Volume 31 I Number 07 www. plumbingafrica. co. za