PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Andrika Petlele, the vibrant owner of Engen Plett One Stop, is revolutionising her community and redefining leadership in the fuel retail industry. Hailing from Kraalhoek, Limpopo, this chemical engineer-turned-entrepreneur embodies resilience and vision.
Her message to all women is: “As women, we are born with an inner strength. Use it to uplift others and change lives.”
Raised by a single mother who juggled two jobs, Petlele learned sacrifice and financial discipline early. “My mom taught us to save and plan from the moment we could count coins," she said.
Her corporate journey began while studying, balancing work and part-time studies.
“Corporate life taught me discipline and resilience,” she says. Yet, her heart was set on owning a service station. Despite repeated rejections due to financial hurdles, her persistence led her to PetroConnect in 2020, which provided crucial support. In 2022, she secured Engen Plett One Stop in Plettenberg Bay.
“I fell in love with the site,” she says. “I knew it was meant to be.”
As the only female Engen dealer in the Southern Cape, Petlele leads with humility and hands-on dedication.
“Managing change was tough, but I focused on empowering staff by leveraging their strengths,” she explains. She says her faith, rooted in her grandmother’s teachings, keeps her grounded.
“Starting my day with gratitude is non-negotiable.”
This Women’s Month, Andrika aims to mentor young women, inspired by her mother’s legacy.
“Start. Be intentional, consistent, and work hard,” is her advice.
Balancing business and family, she draws motivation from her daughter. Engen salutes Petlele for her trailblazing leadership and community impact - a true role model for South Africa.
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