Andrika Petlele: An Engen dealer inspiring others through faith and integrity 

Plettenberg Bay powerhouse and Engen dealer, Kgopolo Andrika Petlele, shines a light on resilience, faith, and female empowerment in fuel retail

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month this August, Engen proudly honours the trailblazing women breaking barriers and paving the way for others. One such woman is Andrika Petlele, the dynamic dealer of Engen Plett One Stop, who is not only transforming her community but also redefining what leadership looks like in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

With a spirit forged in the dusty village of Kraalhoek, Limpopo and refined through years in the corporate world, Andrika stands tall as an entrepreneur with a mission. Her message to the sisters of South Africa is clear and powerful:  “As women, we are born with an inner strength that we should not be afraid to use to change situations, so be conscious and intentional in offering a hand to those in need or are about to fall.”

From Village Roots to Visionary Leadership

Raised in a family of three by a courageous single mother, Andrika learned from an early age the value of sacrifice, hard work, and financial discipline. “My mom worked two jobs - teaching during the day and at night - just to make sure we had a better life,” she reflects. “She taught us about saving and planning from the time we could count coins.”

That foundation not only shaped Andrika’s outlook on life, but also fuels her current leadership style: empathetic, disciplined, and community-focused.

A chemical engineer by training, Andrika was headhunted into the corporate world while still studying - an opportunity she grabbed with both hands, even pausing her final year to begin working and studying part-time. The experience helped mould her professional character: “Corporate life teaches you discipline, resilience, and how to stand your ground.”

But even in those early days, her heart was set on something more.

The Fuel Behind Her Dreams

Andrika’s passion for the fuel industry sparked during her first year in corporate. Inspired, she registered a company with a long-term vision to one day own a service station. Yet, the journey wasn’t smooth. “I applied many times but kept getting knocked back. Not having unencumbered cash was a major hurdle,” she admits. “Still, I knew I had to keep pushing.”

That persistence paid off in 2020 when she discovered PetroConnect, an organisation offering support and training for new entrants into the fuel retail space. “It was a game-changer,” she says. “I visited nine sites and got rejected seven times. I even withdrew one application. But I never gave up. I knew my time would come.”

In 2022, her perseverance was rewarded when she was offered Engen Plett One Stop, a flagship site in the heart of Plettenberg Bay. “When I came to view the site, I fell in love. I knew it was meant to be.”

Leading with Heart
Taking over such a large and complex operation came with its own challenges, but Andrika was ready. “The biggest hurdle was managing change,” she says. “I knew staff would push back, but I focused on identifying their strengths and giving them a platform to shine. Once people feel heard and empowered, they take pride in their work.”

As the only female Engen dealer in the Southern Cape Region, Andrika says she wasn’t even aware of the title - but she's no stranger to being a pioneer. “In corporate, I was the first female appointed in a very tough environment. There were no special favours. I had to perform and earn my place.”

Her formula for success? A blend of humility, clear communication, hands-on leadership, and faith. “I’m deeply rooted in prayer,” she shares. “My late grandmother taught us there’s no set time for prayer, and I carry that with me. Starting my day with gratitude is non-negotiable.”

Andrika describes herself as a hands-on leader who leads by example. “I am passionate about teaching, and that helps me stay resilient even when staff don’t perform as expected. 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. I truly believe people are the greatest asset in any business, and investing in them leads to growth for everyone.”

Giving Back, Looking Forward

Women’s Month holds special meaning for Andrika. Personally, it reminds her of the women who raised her. Professionally, it’s a time to inspire others: “I want to mentor young women in the region and share what I’ve learned. The foundation my mother laid continues to guide me.”

To aspiring women entrepreneurs, she offers this advice

“Start. Let go of the comfort zone. Be intentional and consistent. Have a clear vision and mission—and back it up with hard work.”

Looking ahead, Andrika’s goals are both ambitious and generous. “I’m here to support Engen’s broader mission as a leading petroleum retailer. But more than that, I want to use my platform to make a positive impact in my community.”

She also acknowledges the importance of balance. “My daughter has been my biggest cheerleader and motivator. I’m learning to prioritise what matters most at home while growing the business.”

Her personal mantra keeps her grounded.  “This is your biggest dream which came true. This is what you prayed for. Show up and make it a success.”

A Salute to Strength

Engen congratulates Andrika Petlele on her remarkable achievements and for being a role model not just in the fuel retail sector, but for women across South Africa.

This Women’s Month, we salute the women who lead, uplift, and inspire. 

#EngenCares #WomensMonth #SheLeads #WomenPower