Zenobia Mothilal’s journey to HR leadership at Pepkor Lifestyle is one of resilience, determination and breaking barriers. As a woman who defied societal expectations, Zenobia Inspires young women to chart their own paths, overcome obstacles, and embrace their unique strengths.
Zenobia Mothilal’s career didn’t begin in HR, nor was it a field she initially pursued. Growing up in Lenasia, south of Soweto, she was far removed from the corporate world and HR was never on her radar.
However, life had a different path in store for her, leading her into people management and organisational development, and today she is the HR manager at Pepkor Lifestyle.
Zenobia describes the transformation of Pepkor Lifestyle as not just a name change, but a deep evolution in the business model. “We’ve been part of Pepkor for about 10 years, however Pepkor is predominantly known for its clothing brands like Pep and Ackermans. About 10 years ago, JD Group – our former identity – underwent a major transformation to become sustainable and viable,” she explains.
The company conducted a comprehensive review of its operations, evaluating everything from its product offerings to its organisational structure. This led to brand consolidations, streamlined operations and, although difficult, reductions in non-core areas. “These tough decisions allowed us to emerge as a leaner, more focused organisation, better positioned for sustainable growth,” Zenobia says.
Zenobia’s own career mirrors the transformation within her company: unexpected, determined and filled with grit. “I started in operations, not HR. I worked my way through various roles, learning the business inside out. I truly believe that starting in operations made me a better HR generalist,” she reflects.
Her career took off at Hi-Fi Corporation, where she began in the service department. “On my first day, I worked humbly, not even looking up until five to five when my colleague said, ‘You can stop now.’ The energy in that HiFi Corporation Woodmead store was electrifying. Working seven days a week didn’t feel like work,” she recalls.
But Zenobia’s path was not without its challenges, especially as a woman in a male- dominated environment. “I felt stuck. Women were often confined to administrative roles, but I knew we were capable of much more,” she says. After a brief stint at Checkers Hyper, she returned to Hi-Fi Corporation as a training manager, despite having no prior experience. “I’m a ‘yes’ person. I took the leap, and within two months, I was promoted to HR generalist,” Zenobia explains.
This shift into corporate HR gave Zenobia the voice she had longed for and expanded her influence within the company. “In operations, you spend a lot of time on the operational side. Moving into HR allowed me to bridge that gap and truly make an impact,” she says.
Drawing on her rebellious childhood in Lenasia, Zenobia finds satisfaction in inspiring others, especially young women, to defy societal norms and pursue their passions. “I was told I’d finish school, get married, and have kids. But I was a rebel. I didn’t follow the path expected of me. That’s why I’m here today,” she says.
Zenobia’s passion for coaching and mentoring is evident in her commitment to empowering the next generation. “I am passionate about these youngsters and giving them hope. I want them to know that if they work hard enough, doors will open. But they’ve got to take those opportunities and use their voices,” she shares.
For Zenobia, it’s about giving the youth the first chance that no one else might offer. “I feel responsible for showing them that they don’t have to remain stuck in the same place I was. They can break free from social norms. If I can do it, so can they.”
Zenobia also believes in the importance of remembering one’s roots, even as we grow and evolve in our careers. “There’s a mentality among the youth that once you’ve arrived in corporate, you forget where you came from. We shouldn’t just wipe the slate clean because we have a new name. There’s history. There’s depth. We must honour our journey,” she explains.
One of Zenobia’s key messages for women in and outside of her organisation is that leadership doesn’t have to mirror the ‘male’ style of leadership. “We bring our own strengths as women,” she asserts. “We don’t need to mimic anyone else. We can lead in our own way.”
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Zenobia shares that she has learned the importance of self-care and self-discovery. “For years, I was consumed by climbing the corporate ladder. I forgot who I was. Now, I make time for the simple joys – watching sunsets, embracing nature, and hiking. I’m focusing on who I want to be, not just what I want to do,” she says.
Looking to the future, Zenobia envisions herself as someone who brings calm to any storm – whether it’s a personal or business challenge. “I’d like to be known as the person who created the calm before the storm. I want to continue being that calm presence, helping others navigate whatever storms they may face.”
Empowering the next generation of women
Zenobia’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, your journey can lead to incredible places. “Young women should remember that their voices are powerful and with hard work, perseverance and the courage to defy societal norms, they can create their own paths to success,” she says.
“To the young women reading this: don’t wait for permission to lead. Embrace your unique strengths, take the opportunities that come your way, and know that you are capable of far more than you realise. You are the future, and your journey begins now.”
