Ashika Sewduth

Ashika Sewduth plays a pivotal role in one of South Africa’s most significant infrastructure portfolios. speaking with energy and conviction, she reflects on her journey and on the transformation currently underway at Transnet SOC Ltd. “Transnet Property, an operating division of Transnet, manages the current property portfolio across the country,” Ashika explains. “There are five regions nationally, and KwaZulu-Natal is one of the largest and a major catalyst in South Africa’s economy.”

Ashika is part of a transformative movement for the organisation. “Transnet is undergoing a major reinvention – a restructuring and regrowth programme,” she says. “We implemented a turnaround strategy, and over the past 18 months, we’ve seen phenomenal financial results.

Our overall operational performance has improved, and the change is visible.” The company’s focus is on revitalising South Africa’s critical infrastructure, including ports and rail. “Our rail infrastructure is being rehabilitated through one of the largest programmes in decades,” she adds. “We’re driving growth, creating jobs and strengthening the economy. Our goal is simple: to focus, to develop, to motivate, and to empower.”

Transnet Property has also been forging new alliances to strengthen its developmental reach. “We are establishing joint ventures with the private sector,” she explains. “It’s going very well and with foreign investment, we’re creating a platform that attracts international partners and builds confidence in the South African economy.” Her enthusiasm is unmistakable. “My journey has been very exciting and humbling,” she says. “I started at the bottom. When I left school, I went into retail and worked my way up. Property soon became my calling. Creating catalyst projects and seeing developments come to life has been deeply fulfilling.”

PERSEVERANCE AND PURPOSE
Over 25 years, Ashika’s determination and work ethic have shaped her path from regional secretary to senior
management. “It’s been hard work and a lot of sacrifices,” she reflects. “You have to empower yourself. You have to wake up every day with a positive outlook and say, ‘Today I’m going to do X, Y and Z’, and then get on with it. You might not finish everything, but you can still look back and say, ‘I achieved something today’.”

“Working in the public domain is challenging,” she admits. “But you take each situation as it comes and make the best of it. Inspire people, create multifarious projects, and build a positive environment. South Africa has enormous potential; we just need to keep improving.”

“One of my proudest achievements is the Newlyn PX Bayhead rail terminal development at the Port of Durban, inaugurated by the Honourable President Cyril Ramaphosa,” she says. “It’s a project that truly reflects teamwork, innovation, and impact.” Her leadership and contribution to the sector were recognised when she was honoured as one of the Top 20 Most Influential Women in 2024.

“Balancing work and personal life are one of the biggest challenges,” she says. “You have to align the two. Dream big but stay realistic about what you want to achieve, both professionally and personally.” Her advice to young professionals is both practical and inspiring.

“There’s a lack of skills and knowledge in many industries, so it is vital that we empower one another,” she says. “If we do that, we’ll achieve more and win bigger. Keep your feet on the ground, reach for the stars, put your head down, and get the work done. Find your balance, and you will succeed.”

THE POWER OF DREAMS
While Ashika’s career has been defined by large scale transformation, her personal motivation comes from
something far more intimate – her family and her faith. “My greatest inspiration is my boys,” she smiles. “I have three sons, and I see my dreams through them. They inspire me every step of the way.”

She also credits her mother for shaping her values and determination. “My mum has such a vibrant spirit,” she sayss. “She came from humble beginnings, yet worked incredibly hard, and built a beautiful life for our family. She may not have had formal qualifications, but her strength, faith and determination made her a true success. She’s set big shoes for me to fill.”

Ashika finds inspiration in the people around her every day. “I find inspiration everywhere – even in the people whose stories may often be overlooked. I recall speaking with a cleaner and walking away inspired by her journey. Inspiration is everywhere if you choose to see it.”

NEW POSSIBILITIES
Reflecting on her professional influence, Ashika says, “I bring a lot of knowledge and experience to the table. The economy after Covid is so volatile, it’s business unusual. But you take it as it is, create opportunities, and make things work.”

Her ambitions continue to grow. “I hope to contribute at the highest level of Transnet’s leadership, alongside
colleagues who share the same vision for transformation,” she says confidently. “My advice to women is simple: upskill yourself. Empower yourself to take on the world. Nothing is ever too much – take it one step at a time and just breathe.”

Ashika believes in the importance of pausing to recharge. “Being a career woman, a mother and a wife is
challenging,” she says. “That’s why it is important to find your hobby. I love art, especially mosaics. I take walks on the beach, lie on the grass, and admire nature. Those little moments help me recharge.”

Ashika is proud to be part of a generation of women breaking barriers and creating new possibilities. “We’ve
broken boundaries as women leaders,” she says proudly. “But you must always reassess your goals. Once you achieve one dream, set another. Keep growing, keep dreaming.” She smiles as she reflects on the journey ahead. “We’ve come so far, but there’s always more to learn and more to do,” she says. “Dream big, stay grounded, and believe in your strengths. Nothing is impossible when you take it one step at a time – the horizon is endless, and so are the possibilities.”