Connie Mashaba is a seasoned South African entrepreneur, executive leader, and advocate for social justice and education. She is the Managing Director of Black Like Me (Pty) Ltd, a pioneering hair care company founded in 1985 during the height of apartheid. The brand, founded with her husband Herman Mashaba, has grown into a trusted name in personal care, manufacturing and distributing products locally and exporting to other African countries. Since 2005, Black Like Me has operated as a subsidiary of Amka Products, based in Centurion, Pretoria.
Beyond her role at Black Like Me, Connie is the Chairperson of Lephatsi Investments (Pty) Ltd, a private equity firm with a diverse portfolio spanning real estate, financial services, insurance brokerage, and fuel distribution. Her strategic leadership has helped position the company as a key player in South Africa’s investment landscape.
Connie also serves as a non-executive director on several boards, including GIB Insurance Brokers, Consolidated Building Material (Pty) Ltd, The Energy Company, and EDT, an Investec Trust where she is a Trustee. She is the former President of the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and continues to contribute as a board member, championing inclusive growth and ethical business practices.
Her passion for social justice and education is woven into every aspect of her work. Connie actively mentors emerging entrepreneurs, particularly women and youth, helping to cultivate leadership and innovation in underserved communities. She supports initiatives such as the Field Band Foundation, and regularly participates in programmes that promote empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic participation.
Connie’s academic and leadership credentials are equally impressive. She holds an MBA from Wits Business School, has completed multiple executive programmes at Harvard Business School, and is a proud member of the Institute of Directors of South Africa.
From building a business under the constraints of apartheid to shaping South Africa’s economic and social landscape today, Connie Mashaba exemplifies resilience, integrity, and visionary leadership. Her legacy is defined not only by commercial success but by her unwavering commitment to uplifting others and driving meaningful change across sectors.