At an exclusive Workday women’s luncheon, the Tiger Brands CHRO encouraged those in attendance to always lead with purpose, more so in male-dominated industries.
Nestled in the heart of Sandton, surrounded by tranquil gardens, Beechwood Gardens was the setting for an executive women’s luncheon hosted by CHRO South Africa’s executive partner Workday in honour of Women’s Month.
Guided by the theme ,“Women breaking leadership barriers in male-dominated industries”, keynote speaker, Tiger Brands CHRO S’ne Magagula, gave a brief history of her career journey.
Before joining Tiger Brands in 2018, S’ne held several key leadership roles in HR at Sasol, where she served as the senior vice president for group HR. Prior to her tenure at Sasol, she gained a decade of experience at Shell, where she took on various positions in both South Africa and the Netherlands
“I always choose opportunities that will allow me to make a difference in people’s lives,” she said. “These decisions aren’t always the most popular, fancy or even easier ones, but it is what resonates with me and, more importantly, with my values.”
Being true to her values, she said, is one of the foundations of her career journey. “Let your purpose, passion and values be your centre. As a leader, values are very important. There is absolutely no need to compromise your values in any way.”
Other pointers from the CHRO included:
- Feel the fear, but do it anyway: “Fear is a natural emotion, especially when facing challenges, uncertainties, or new experiences. However, rather than letting fear hold you back, move forward and take the leap despite it.”
- Let experience and adventure fuel your fire. Let it be your guide because it will give you a different outlook on life.
- Inspired by a Socrates quote “Know thyself”, S’ne emphasised the importance of self-awareness and understanding one’s own nature, strengths and limitations.
- In another Socrates quote “An unexamined life is not worth living,” S’ne explained how living without introspection, self-reflection, or critical thought about one’s actions, values and beliefs is a shallow existence. “Self-examination and self-awareness are essential for personal growth, moral development and a deeper understanding of one’s purpose in life.”
- Always raise your hand even for the most difficult tasks. “One learns by experience,” she noted.
- Choose joy and let generosity of spirit be your source of joy. “Be intentional about happiness and kindness.
- When we cultivate a generous spirit – whether by giving our time, support, compassion, or resources – we not only uplift others, but also experience a deep sense of fulfilment and happiness ourselves.”
- Speak up and stand up. Swim against the tide, but do so politely. S’ne encouraged the women to assert themselves and advocate for their beliefs, even when those beliefs go against popular opinion or the status quo.
- It takes a village, she added, meaning don’t be afraid to collaborate and engage with others.
- Let excellence be your brand and continue honing your craft. “Keep on continuously learning, practising and refining your abilities to reach new levels of mastery.”
Concluding her talk, S’ne encouraged the women there to be intentional about leaving a lasting legacy, “Live with purpose and foresight, ensuring that your actions today contribute to a meaningful and enduring impact,” she noted.
