Bonteheuwel’s Candra Shanice Pedro becomes SA’s first female shipbuilder

Candra Shanice Pedro did not let the adversities faced by many in the Cape Flats define her. The 26-year-old has scribed her name in history as South Africa’s very first female shipbuilder.

Even from the 17th Century when ships docked for the first time in South Africa, it was never imagined that a woman could ever accomplish the work of man.

Yet, Pedro, hailing from the crime-ridden Cape Flats township of Bonteheuwel, did not subscribe to this stereotype.

What we know about Candra Shanice Pedro

As reported by Cape Times, Pedro completed her high school years at Spes Bona Technical in 2010. Thereafter, she pursued a qualification in Engineering Sciences for three years before securing the apprenticeship that would change her life.

In 2013, using her knowledge in steelwork and multi-disciplinary drawing, Pedro began her apprenticeship with Armscor Dockyard. There, she met the mentor that would steer her in the direction of the historical feat she has achieved.

“Once I became enrolled in an apprenticeship programme, the training officer for shipping at the time, Rafeeq Fisher, who has been my father figure throughout the apprenticeship and the forerunner of fighting to get me qualified, insisted I pursue this trade.

“I do not regret my decision, now that I am finally a qualified shipbuilder and the first female shipbuilder in South Africa,” she said.

What inspires Pedro to concur the stereotype

Since the news of the 26-year-old’s achievement broke out, she has made headlines. While this level of celebrity is new to her, it is all a result of her unrelenting hard work at defeating the odds.

Pedro says it herself in her interview with the cited publication. Her stature and strength, on paper, should not allow her to do the job she does. However, for the 26-year-old, the difficulties come with the trade

“When you love what you do, every challenge becomes an opportunity to grow,” she explained.

A true inspiration to many, Pedro continues her work as a shipbuilder and at such a young age, she has a very bright future ahead of her.