Pinagare Mogodi’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a titan in South Africa’s mining, construction, and logistics industries is nothing short of extraordinary. Born and raised by his single mother, Puleng Mogodi, alongside his sister, Lesego Kenneth, Pinagare grew up in an environment filled with love, resilience, and a determination to rise above challenges. Despite her financial struggles, Puleng worked three jobs to ensure her children’s future, instilling in Pinagare the values of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice.
An integral figure in his life was his uncle, Ignitions Oupa Mphomane, who became a father figure and mentor. Oupa not only introduced him to the principles of business but also taught him the ethics and humility that have guided his career. Inspired by his uncle’s success and driven by his desire to create a better life for his family, Pinagare’s entrepreneurial journey began in high school and blossomed during his university years.
In 2010, Pinagare co-founded MAB (Matsapa-A-Botshelo), a company that has since grown into a multi-disciplinary enterprise operating in mining, construction, trucking, and export. Despite early challenges, including dropping out of university in his final year and facing significant financial hardships, Pinagare’s vision for MAB remained steadfast. He credits prayer, persistence, and sheer determination for pulling him through the darkest times, including incurring over R50 million in debt, enduring a divorce, and navigating the crippling impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During COVID-19, MAB faced unprecedented setbacks, with projects halted and staff retrenched. Pinagare recalls moments when giving up seemed like the only option. However, a pivotal morning in Sandton became the turning point. Watching others hustle reignited his drive to rebuild, leading to the company securing billion-rand contracts for coal export and the opening of new mines. MAB Group, under the visionary leadership of Pinagare Mogodi, has achieved remarkable milestones that cement its status as a billion-rand enterprise. With diversified operations spanning mining, construction, trucking, and exports, the company has grown into a powerhouse that consistently delivers exceptional value.
“Reaching a terminal value of over a billion rand is not just a testament to our financial success but also to the dedication and resilience of our team,” says Mogodi. “This milestone reflects the years of strategic planning, overcoming challenges, and delivering excellence in every sector we operate in. It’s about creating sustainable growth, uplifting communities, and building a legacy that inspires others to dream bigger.”
MAB Group’s robust portfolio includes the ownership of three mines with lifespans exceeding 30 years, shareholder stakes in other ventures, and a leased wash plant operation. The company’s significant export operations, supported by a fleet of over 400 trucks, have driven its financial growth and reinforced its reputation as a trusted industry leader.
“Our journey hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has shaped us into who we are today. This valuation is a marker of our past success and a motivator to achieve even greater heights,” Mogodi adds.
As MAB Group continues to expand into new ventures, including the development of state- of-the-art infrastructure and the opening of new mines, it remains committed to innovation, excellence, and community impact—values that will ensure its legacy as a billion-rand trailblazer in the South African economy.
Pinagare’s life is a testament to resilience. His belief that success is not merely material but also rooted in internal peace and awareness has shaped his journey. As a philanthropist, he has dedicated himself to uplifting others by funding school fees, providing housing for orphans and the elderly, and contributing to community development projects.
Looking ahead, Pinagare is optimistic about the future of mining, construction, and logistics under South Africa’s new Government of National Unity. He envisions a brighter economy and a revitalized industry, free from the delays and corruption of the past. Pinagare also emphasizes the importance of education, sharing his plans to return to university to inspire his children and demonstrate that learning never stops, no matter how successful one becomes.
Through MAB’s new ventures, including coal and chrome mines and a state-of-the-art wash plant, Pinagare continues to break boundaries. His story resonates as a powerful reminder that adversity is often the foundation for greatness. With a heart for giving and an unwavering vision, Pinagare Mogodi is a beacon of hope and proof that no dream is too big to achieve.
In a world that often measures success by material gains, Pinagare Mogodi redefines it through his relentless spirit, compassionate leadership, and determination to leave a lasting legacy.