Samantha Swanepoel

Samantha Swanepoel, the financial director of Boiler Craft Africa, is helping to power industries through bespoke boiler and steam solutions. Based in KwaZulu-Natal, the company is dedicated to delivering sustainable, safe, and reliable steam systems that enable industries to operate efficiently while advancing towards a greener future. Under Samantha’s financial leadership, Boiler Craft Africa has strengthened its foundations to support growth, reinvest in its people, and foster a culture that places quality and service excellence at its core.

Samantha’s professional journey began in the financial sector. “I started working in the financial sector straight out of high school,” she explained. “I became an entry level bank official and gradually worked my way up through the ranks.” While working full-time, she pursued her studies and secured a higher diploma in banking and financial services, a significant achievement that required determination and focus.

“I had very good mentors who guided and coached me,” she reflected. “Through those connections, I learned so much and built the foundation for where I am today.” Her exposure to entrepreneurs and business leaders also left a lasting impression. “Through engaging with clients and sitting in boardrooms, I saw how passionate they were about building something for the future and creating their businesses. It really inspired me to do something for myself and create that legacy for my family.”

After two decades in banking, Samantha took a bold step into business ownership. “Walking plant and factory floors and seeing what one can build was just a dream come true for me,” she said. “After 20 years in the banking industry, I decided to take that leap and cross over into owning my own business. My dream has changed and evolved over the years, and it has also been a lifestyle choice to create balance in my life for my family.” Family remains central to Samantha’s motivation. “My daughter has been one of my greatest joys. She inspires and motivates me every day. My husband pushes me to do better, and my parents instilled in me the value of hard work. They are all a huge part of why I do what I do.”

BUILDING A BUSINESS
Samantha believes her greatest contribution to Boiler Craft Africa has been establishing a strong financial
structure that enables growth and empowers people. “Through my background in the financial sector, I have
been able to create a culture where our people are valued. They are our greatest assets,” she said. “Investing in our people and building a strong ethos of collaboration has been a priority for me.”

Her leadership also extends beyond business. “At Boiler Craft Africa, we run initiatives to support our senior
citizens, and we are proud of creating employment opportunities for people who did not have work before. Giving back to our community is something very dear to us.”

MILESTONES AND CHALLENGES
Samantha’s professional achievements are well complemented by deeply personal milestones. “Completing my studies while working full time and attaining a higher diploma in banking and financial services was a proud moment. Volunteering and community involvement during my years in banking also shaped me.”
She acknowledges that the road has not always been easy, particularly in traditionally male-dominated
environments. “Entering spaces that were initially male dominated was something I had to overcome. I’m proud to hold my place in those arenas,” she said.

Balancing the roles of mother, wife, and business leader also presents daily challenges. “It’s a struggle for most women. We have to plan ahead. We don’t always get it right, but we try our best.” Samantha encourages young women to be courageous and adaptable. “Don’t wait for the perfect plan. Start
and figure it out as you go. Leverage your network and mentors, and it’s okay to change your plan. What I envisioned at the start of my journey is completely different from what it is now and I’m better for it.” She added, “I strongly believe everything that’s happened through my journey has happened for a reason. I wouldn’t hange a thing, because if it weren’t for the bumps along the way, I wouldn’t be where I am today. You have to be adaptable, especially in fast-paced industries where quick decisions are essential. See obstacles as opportunities and turn something negative into something positive.”

LOOKING AHEAD
Samantha’s ambition for Boiler Craft Africa is clear. “My goal is to grow Boiler Craft into one of the most
respected boiler companies in Africa, to keep reinvesting in our people, and to create a legacy that will stand the test of time. Quality is imperative in our business. We are passionate about customer service and creating value for our clients.”

“When you are a business owner, it becomes your whole life. Every conversation and every decision circles back to the business – managing cash flow, supporting your team, and ensuring sustainability. You have people relying on you every day, and they have families too. That responsibility drives me to make sure the business is stable and that we continue creating value for our customers.”

For Samantha, maintaining balance is a conscious effort. “There isn’t an exact playbook. What I try to do is carve out time each day to spend with my family.” One of their favourite activities is competitive shooting,
which has become a shared passion. “We are competitive shooters as a family and spend long days at the range together. When you work with your partner, it’s sometimes hard to separate home life from business conversations. Going to the range allows us to disconnect from work and just enjoy time together. Our daughter recently competed in a competition and won a prize, which made us very proud.”

Samantha concluded, “What started as a small idea with a big vision has led us to grow a company with a strong legacy that we are very proud of."