Murendeni Liphadzi
MBA, Tshepiso is also researching anchoring performance in tropical rock formations, work that is opening doors in the mining and infrastructure space. Tshepiso also mentors young engineers, supports students financially and develops graduate programmes that create opportunities. A future foundation supporting girls in STEM is firmly on her horizon. Qualifications • PhD in Civil Engineering Candidate, University of Johannesburg • MEng in Engineering Management, University of Johannesburg • BEng in Civil Engineering, University of Johannesburg Achievements Appointed Technical Manager for fischer fixing systems at Upat South Africa, supporting engineers and clients nationwide with anchor design, testing and technical training, contributing to the safe delivery of construction projects. Facilitated first industry webinar – Women in Transport – leading a conversation with influential women shaping the sector and encouraging greater visibility and boldness in professional spaces. Active member of SARF, serving on the Northern Region and the Stakeholder and Communications committees, contributing to industry discussions, technical sessions, student engagements and community outreach to promote safety, standards and regulated practices. Guest speaker at the Wits Industry Talk, engaging with engineering students on career realities and inspiring the next generation. Led a STEM career day, connecting learners with professionals to broaden awareness of career possibilities beyond the classroom. Commenced PhD research on chemical anchor performance in tropical rock formations under various loading conditions, opening opportunities in the mining sector and advancing infrastructure design and safety conversations. Invited to study for an Executive MBA at Quantic School of Business and Technology, affirming capability in both technical expertise and global business leadership. Mentors I really look up to my mother. She is one of the strongest women I know and has done her absolute best to raise us well, even when circumstances were tough. Her heart, resilience and quiet strength have shaped so much of who I am. She grounds me in ways I do not always realise until I find myself in moments where I need to remember who I am and where I come from. I am always grateful for how she reminds me to stay humble, to stay kind and to never forget my purpose. In terms of career, a role model who has had a big impact on me is Dr Judy Dlamini. Her journey, both in business and academia, has inspired me deeply. She represents everything I aspire to be – a woman of substance, influence and impact. Her story taught me that it is possible to rise, to lead and to break barriers while still staying true to yourself. She reminded me that there is no timeline to greatness, and that your journey is valid even when it does not follow a straight path. Both of these women have influenced my path in different but powerful ways. One reminds me of where I come from; the other reminds me of where I am going.
“YOU CANNOT PREVAIL OVER WHAT YOU HAVE NOT DARED TO CONFRONT”
Profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/murendeni-liphadzi- 78731753/?originalSubdomain=za Murendeni Liphadzi’s passion for transforming Africa’s built environment has shaped his career as a researcher, educator and leader. As deputy director at the Sustainable Human Settlement and Construction Research Centre and academic facilitator at the University of Johannesburg, Murendeni, 34, leads research in sustainable construction, digital leadership and entrepreneurship. His work champions technologies like building information modelling (BIM) and virtual reality to advance innovation and leadership development in the sector. With qualifications that include a PhD in engineering management and a master’s in construction manage- ment, Murendeni mentors the next generation of built environment professionals by supervising postgraduate research, facilitating lectures and fostering critical thinking. His leadership helped South Africa secure gold and bronze medals at the Brics BIM competition, underscoring the power of collaboration and innovation on a global stage. Beyond academia, he advises communities and small and medium enterprises on infrastructure projects, ensuring development is both sustainable and inclusive. Qualifications • PhD in Engineering Management, University of Johannesburg • Master’s in Construction Management, University of Johannesburg • Bachelors Quantity Surveying, University of Johannesburg • National Diploma in Building Science, University of Johannesburg Achievements Mentoring students who successfully completed their master’s degrees in 5D BIM and prefabrication studies. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of education and its role in driving innovation in our industry. As the lead expert for BRICS BIM in South Africa, my collaboration with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) was a significant highlight, culminating in South Africa winning a gold medal in 2023 and a bronze in 2024 at the international
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