By Nhlawulo Vision Chauke
From military bases to boardrooms, Tshwane University of Technology alum, Eunice Maeshibe Marema, is proving that leadership knows no boundaries. The Senior Military Officer (Major) in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) as well as Founder and CEO of Maeshibe Coffee is making history as she balances a demanding, decorated military career with a thriving entrepreneurial empire grounded in African excellence.
Marema’s 15-year journey in the SANDF is a story of discipline, resilience and service. “Just because I love my people, I decided that I am going to be of service to them - and, if you are a person of service, it is easy to serve your country and defend its people,” she explained.
Eunice Marema's entrepreneurial achievements have earned her prestigious recognition, including the Mail & Guardian Young South African Award in Entrepreneurship and the 40 Under 40 CEOs Award for African Economic Advancement.
Her presence in the military as a young Black woman reflects both strength and visionary leadership.
But, her story does not end in uniform - Marema is also the force behind Maeshibe Coffee, a proudly African brand rooted in empowerment and heritage. Her entrepreneurial achievements have earned her prestigious recognition, including the Mail & Guardian Young South African Award in Entrepreneurship and the 40 Under 40 CEOs Award for African Economic Advancement.
Her entrepreneurial roots trace back to childhood, when selling tomatoes door to door in Zebediela, Limpopo, taught her the value of persistence and innovation. Today, her brand not only celebrates African excellence but also uplifts communities.
Beyond business, Marema is an unapologetic feminist and philanthropist, outspoken on critical social issues such as Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). She believes that women’s financial independence is key to ending GBVF, using her voice to advocate for economic empowerment as a form of protection and long-term freedom.
Her influence also extends to academia and governance - she now serves on TUT’s Institutional Forum, giving back to the institution that helped shape her path. Her academic achievements include:
- Advanced Diploma in Administrative Management (Cum Laude) – TUT
- Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration – TUT
- Master of Management in Governance – University of the Witwatersrand
- African Political Economy & Afrikan Feminism Studies – Thabo Mbeki African Leadership Institute
Giving back to the institution that helped shape her, Eunice Marema now also serves on TUT's Institutional Forum.
Despite her many accolades, Marema remains grounded in purpose. Speaking on Alumni Talk on Tshwane FM 93.6, she highlighted how her many roles from soldier and entrepreneur, to feminist and philanthropist all connect to one central vision: uplifting others.
Her journey is still unfolding, but one thing is clear: While breaking barriers, Eunice Maeshibe Marema is also building a legacy that blends service, empowerment and African excellence.