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TLC with a twist Given the rapid pace at which 2019 is flying by, and the stellar line-up of powerhouse women you are about to read about, you could be forgiven for thinking that August was already on the horizon. But no, it’s not women’s month. Rather, this issue gives credence to the notion that women should be celebrated and recognised every month of the year. You are likely to be reminded of your purpose as HR leaders after reading this particular magazine as there are many references to the importance of genuinely caring for employees when you are in a role like yours. The wellness and employee engagements features (on page 26 and 18 respectively) discuss why an organisation cannot move forward without taking an active interest in the well-being of its people. Sasol’s Charlotte Mokoena (page 32) shares tales from her life’s journey and explains how being a nurse shaped her into the caring leader that she is today. Meanwhile, Paramount Group HR director Martie Baumgardt tells you why empathy has been at the centre of what has at times been a very difficult journey of being involved in numerous mass retrenchment processes throughout her career. While care and empathy are recurring themes in this issue, there are a few opinions and hard truths some of your colleagues have shared. BAT Southern Africa’s recently appointed HR director shares her commitment to addressing the underrepresentation of women to decision-making positions. On page 22, FNB Wealth and Investments head of talent Tshidi Khunou explores whether corporate South Africa is ready to abandon university degrees as a mandatory requirement for professional candidates. On page 18, Pearson’s Alice Bhebhe reflects on a pivotal period in her career when she was involved in executing the learning and development initiatives for South Africa’s first democratically elected parliamentarians. For highlights of events hosted by CHRO South Africa in 2018, including the inaugural HR Indaba, have a look at the HR Indaba Africa 2019 preview (page 38) and relive some of the other events that we held in the latter half of the year (page 52).
SUNGULA NKABINDE SNKABINDE@CHRO.CO.ZA +27 (0)72 741 6171
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