The Men at The Helm - Lungelo Ncwane

I have been living in Ballito with my wife and son since 2016. If I were to briefly introduce myself, I'm a Mechanical Engineer by profession and an entrepreneur by trade. Having moved from Margate, Ballito has a small-town vibe that is also central to everything. The joy of living in a small town is getting to know the people you encounter and creating a familial atmosphere.

I am part of a number of businesses in various capacities; however, the main business I am involved in is UWP Engineers, a Mechanical Engineering firm. The main aspects that we deal with are: Pump Design and Installation, HVAC Design and Installation, Piping System Design and Installation, Fire and Wet Services Design and Installation, Tank Design and Refurbishment, Project Risk Assessment and Management, and Plant Maintenance and Optimisation.

Growing up, I was always curious about how the world of big machines worked. So I am studying mechanical engineering, and being an entrepreneur is purely part of my love for problem-solving and providing solutions for others.

Challenges
As a small consulting company, the biggest challenge we face is business uncertainty due to a lot of gatekeeping by mainly established businesses, especially in the private sector.

Business philosophy
To provide quality service by performing our duties in a professional manner with integrity, abiding by legal requirements and codes of practice at all times.

Advice
As a marathon runner myself, the advice I would give to someone wanting to start a business is to understand that business ownership is a marathon, not a sprint. It's about pacing, endurance and resilience rather than quick bursts of energy. Have clear objectives of the solution you want to provide to society, with a long-term vision for your execution. Lastly, do not be afraid to take risks and somehow try to strike a work-life balance so as to remain in the race.

Email: silungelo@umthombo.co.za