“VUT alumna Mmatshepo Maina, founder of Chrinia Solutions, shares her civil engineering journey, championing gender equality, mentorship, and innovation.”
19 August 2025 | Story By:Ntebogeleng Digasu | Picture: Supplied
2 minutes read time.
Meet Ms Mmatshepo Maina, Director and Owner of Chrinia Solutions, and a proud alumna of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT). Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and a relentless pursuit of gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated field.
For Ms Maina, gender equality means more than representation. It is about institutional support that guarantees fair and equal access to opportunities in technical growth, career development, education, and inclusive workspaces. “Equality,” she insists, “must be embedded in systems, not just statements.”
Reflecting on her time at VUT, Ms Maina credits her education for equipping her with confidence and practical skills to navigate and challenge gender norms in the civil engineering industry. She recalls modules such as Design, Analysis, Documentation and Communication Studies, taught by seasoned industry professionals, which provided both technical expertise and essential soft skills. “I was taught to deliver regardless of gender. Communication studies helped me to speak up, write clearly, and listen actively; all of which are vital in driving transformation in the workplace.”
To accelerate progress, Ms Maina champions ethical leadership, the intentional inclusion of diverse perspectives, and a strong culture of mentorship. “A diverse team doesn’t just look good; it performs better,” she explains. “We live in a digital age where innovation is critical, and that only happens when everyone has a seat at the table.”
When asked what advice she would offer to young women studying at VUT, her message is clear and empowering. “You are exactly where you need to be. Take every opportunity seriously. Be strategic. Be curious. This is your training ground, and your future will be shaped by what you invest in today. Ask questions and stay teachable.”
Her drive is deeply personal. She is inspired by her own growth, her passion for learning, and the support of her husband and community. Most of all, she draws strength from her daughters, whose futures she envisions in a world where equality is no longer a battle, but a lived reality.
In a world striving for inclusion, Ms Mmatshepo Maina is not merely part of the conversation; she is shaping the narrative.