DUT CSERI ENTREPRENEUR WINILE MBALA TO EMPOWER WOMEN AT AFRICA FOR AFRICA WOMEN’S CONFERENCE IN ETHIOPIA
Centre for Social Entrepreneurship entrepreneur, Winile Mbala, is a shining example of resilience and leadership in the security industry. As the Founding and Managing Director of Favor Protection Services, her journey has been marked by dedication, expertise, and a deep commitment to empowering women. Recently, Winile received an invitation to attend the Africa for Africa Women’s Conference in Ethiopia this October, where she will not only be recognized with an award nomination but also deliver a talk on her work in the security sector.
Currently incubated at DUT’s Centre for Social Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator (CSERI), Winile reflects on how the Centre has significantly shaped her entrepreneurial journey. “The CSERI has provided me with invaluable knowledge and tools to better manage my business. It has helped me find solutions to challenges I’ve faced, and this self-awareness is both empowering and transformative,” she said.
Winile’s story begins in the rural areas of Umzimkhulu, South Africa, where she grew up in a rondavel. She attended Umhlabazi Junior Secondary School and later Rode Senior Secondary School in Mount Ayliff, where she completed her matric. Despite her humble beginnings, she pursued her education with determination, earning a Diploma in Business Administration from DUT, as well as a Bachelor of Technology in Policing and a Bachelor of Security Risk Management from the University of South Africa (UNISA).
Her professional journey began with the South African Police Service, where she served for nine years. Her time in law enforcement laid a strong foundation for her subsequent role as Security Manager for Nactos/Sasol, overseeing security at one of South Africa’s critical infrastructure sites. However, corporate challenges led her to quit her job and venture into entrepreneurship.
In 2014, Winile founded Favor Protection Services, officially registering the company with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) in 2016. Her company has since been a trusted security service provider, playing a key role in safeguarding critical infrastructure in South Africa, including Eskom’s Drakensburg Pumped Storage, King Shaka International Airport, Engen Refinery, and more.
“I became more interested in the security industry when I was a National Key Point Security Regulator, conducting annual evaluations and inspections at critical infrastructure sites. It made me realize how crucial security is in business,” Winile explained. Her passion for security grew, and with her academic background in Security Risk Management, she was well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the industry.
Winile is also a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment in the security field. As the Founding Director and Chairperson of the Women in Security South Africa Association, she has created a platform for women in the industry to connect, share, and support each other. “Venturing into entrepreneurship, particularly in fields where women are underrepresented, is both brave and transformative. The security industry, like many others, may seem daunting at first, but your unique perspective and skills are not just needed, they are invaluable,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Winile encourages aspiring women entrepreneurs to stay resilient, even when faced with uncertainty and obstacles. “Confidence grows with experience and knowledge. Equip yourself with the skills and education you need, and trust in your ability to overcome challenges,” she advised.
As she prepares for the Africa for Africa Women’s Conference, Winile’s story continues to inspire. Her dedication to security and her passion for empowering women in underrepresented fields make her a role model for many. DUT CSERI takes pride in supporting entrepreneurs like Winile, who are not only driving business success but also making a positive impact on society.
- Story by Nomvelo Mkhwanazi
