Andrika Petlele: Fuel industry pioneer

MAKE a start. Get out of your comfort zone. Have a clear vision and mission, and be intentional as well as consistent. But most importantly, back it all up with hard work!

- JASON WOOSEY

These are the wise words of Andrika Petlele, who heads up the Engen One Stop in Plettenberg Bay. She is also the only female petrol station owner in the Southern Cape Region. Now she wants to mentor young women in the region and share what she has learned.

Andrika describes her leadership style as empathetic, disciplined and community-focused. She is also very hands-on and believes in leading by example and imparting knowledge wherever she can.

"I am passionate about teaching, and that helps me stay resilient even when staff don't perform as expected," Andrika says.

"I delegate based on people's natural strengths and focus on building a culture of learning and accountability.

"When staff feel supported and equipped, they rise to the occasion - and that shows in our service delivery."