Ashika Sewduth: Driving Transformation and Empowerment in South Africa’s Infrastructure Sector

Leadership in Infrastructure

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 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 at the forefront of a transformative movement within the organisation. She describes Transnet’s ongoing reinvention as a major restructuring and regrowth programme. “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 renewed focus is on revitalising South Africa’s critical infrastructure, especially 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 proactive in building new alliances to amplify its developmental reach. “We are establishing joint ventures with the private sector,” Ashika notes. “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 as she shares her deeply fulfilling professional journey. “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

With over 25 years of experience, Ashika’s determination and work ethic have shaped her remarkable ascent from regional secretary to senior management. “It’s been hard work and a lot of sacrifices,” she reflects. She emphasises the importance of self-empowerment and maintaining a positive outlook: “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’.”

Ashika acknowledges the challenges of working in the public sector but remains steadfast in her commitment to inspire others and create impactful projects. “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.”

She takes great pride in her achievements, notably the Newlyn PX Bayhead rail terminal development at the Port of Durban, which was inaugurated by President Cyril Ramaphosa. She regards it as a testament to teamwork, innovation, and tangible impact. Ashika’s leadership and contributions to the sector were recognised when she was honoured as one of the Top 20 Most Influential Women in 2024.

Balancing professional and personal life remains an ongoing challenge for Ashika. “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. 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 deepest motivation comes from her family and faith. “My greatest inspiration is my boys,” she says with a smile. “I have three sons, and I see my dreams through them. They inspire me every step of the way.”

She also credits her mother with instilling enduring values and determination. “My mum has such a vibrant spirit,” Ashika shares. “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 all around her, often in unexpected places and people. “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 impact, Ashika remarks, “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 remain high. “I hope to contribute at the highest level of Transnet’s leadership, alongside colleagues who share the same vision for transformation,” she says confidently. Ashika encourages women to upskill and empower themselves: “Nothing is ever too much – take it one step at a time and just breathe.”

Recognising the demands of her various roles, Ashika emphasises the importance of self-care and balance. “Being a career woman, a mother and a wife is challenging. 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 among 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 looks to the future with optimism: “We’ve come so far, but there’s always more to learn and more to do. 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.”