From a small-town girl in Limpopo to a multi-award-winning entrepreneur leading a multimillion-rand business in construction, waste, and hygiene services, Caroll Masevhe is building more than infrastructure. She’s building a legacy.
Who are you? your full name, age, where were you born, and where were you raised?
My name is Caroll Masevhe. I’m about to turn 37, and I was born and raised in Thohoyandou, Limpopo. I’m the first-born in my family, with four siblings under me, and a 15-year-old son. Growing up in a rural area, I had dreams of making something of myself, which led me to pursue studies in Johannesburg
Where did you study and how did your education shape your journey?
I studied Civil Engineering at 712 Johannesburg College, formerly known as TJC. After getting my diploma, I worked while pursuing my in-service training. Later, I enrolled at Wits Business School to study Entrepreneurship, graduating in 2015. I’ve also completed several management and leadership programs that were essential in running a business successfully.
What inspired you to start your own company?
After working for four years at a major construction company, I felt limited in how much I could grow. At the age of 23, I took the risk to start something of my own. My entrepreneurial spirit was inspired by my mother, who sold indigenous food on the streets despite limited formal education. She was my first business mentor and played a massive role in shaping my mindset.
Tell us more about Kapcor Constructions, what do you specialise in today?
Kapcor started as a construction company focusing on concrete works, paving, and superstructure erections. Over the years, we expanded and evolved into Kapcor Group. We now operate in three key divisions: Construction & Infrastructure Development, Facilities Management, Cleaning & Hygiene Services and Environmental Waste Management. Our waste division is particularly close to my heart. It began from a genuine concern for the state of our communities and the environment. We manage general waste, recyclable waste, and even support renovation projects and SMMEs with tailored solutions.
How do these services link together under the built environment?
All three services are interlinked. Construction creates waste, which we now manage responsibly. Our hygiene division supports completed builds and facility upkeep. Together, these services form an integrated ecosystem where we’re not only creating infrastructure, but also preserving and managing it sustainably.
What were some of the biggest challenges when starting Kapcor?
As a woman in a male-dominated industry, I was constantly underestimated. Clients would assume a man was running the company and doubt my ability to deliver. I had to work three to four times harder to prove myself. Then there’s the issue of funding. When I started, I had saved R50,000, which was all I had. I ran the business from my small apartment in Newtown for three years. Clients were slow to pay, and yet I had to pay my workers fortnightly. We survived on sheer grit, strategic planning, and the support of early clients who offered material purchases or staggered payments.
How did you fund the first years without external capital or major investors?
I saved aggressively during my employment. My pension was small, but I used what I had wisely. I also asked my parents to help raise my son so I could focus on building the company. My first project had good margins, and the client bought the material. That helped me reinvest in systems and grow slowly.
Did you have any mentors or support systems?
Yes. I’m a big believer in mentorship. One woman, in particular, who owns a painting business, took me under her wing. She introduced me to clients and guided me during my early years. Even today, I still seek advice from mentors. It’s vital to have a sounding board in business.
What’s the scale of your business today? Staff? Revenue? Clients?
We started with R50,000, and today our revenue is in the multimillion-rand range. We’ve employed over 50 people, including professional engineers, safety officers, and environmental specialists. Our client base spans 15–20 organizations, ranging from corporates to municipalities. We also run an internal mentorship program, taking in 3–4 women annually to train in different departments.
What are some of your biggest awards or recognitions?
In 2023, I was awarded Businesswoman of the Year by the South African Chamber of Commerce in the UK. It was surreal standing in London as the only Black South African woman in the room. I’ve also won the CIDB Awards for Project Excellence and Mentorship, 40 Under 40 Award in the built environment sector. Various local accolades for entrepreneurship and women empowerment. But my greatest achievement is mentoring young women and seeing them thrive, whether within Kapcor or elsewhere.
What are your goals for the next 5–10 years?
I want to exit the “small business” space. We’ve appointed a new Operations Director and are building strong systems. The office can now run without me, which is a sign of maturity. My five-year goal is to scale nationally, expand our environmental footprint, and secure long-term public-private partnerships.
And finally, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially young women?
Be open to learning. You don’t know everything, and that’s okay. Ask questions. The more you ask, the more you grow.
