PROFFESSIONAL
A PEOPLECENTRED LEADERSHIP STANCE
Where did the passion for Human Development come from and when did you decide that this is what you wanted to do for a living? Like many teenagers, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life but I had to choose a career path based on my subjects, marks and circumstances around me. I have a natural inclination towards helping; and I’m curious. I was drawn to psychology because the description of the profession sounded interesting, like something I could do because I would be in a position to help people. What was your proudest moment academically or career-wise? Finishing my PhD in Organisational Development and Diversity Management on record time in 2015 and being appointed as the Chairman of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA) in October 2021. I am currently at the heart of the economic development of the Gauteng province, which is in line with my life purpose of human development. What does transformation mean to you in the South African context? Transformation is about the transfer of social and economic power to the majority of the population, which is women and black people. We are far from achieving this, and for as long as we are so far, South Africa cannot develop to achieve its fullest potential.
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www.transformsa.co.za
You have achieved so much at such a young age, are you content with what you’ve done
What advice would you give to someone who wants to follow in your footsteps? Follow your heart but be prepared to do the menial work. It
so far or is there more that you want to accomplish?
all works out in the end. Remain humble and teachable
I am humbled and grateful for my path and accomplishments so far but I will achieve contentment the day l achieve my dream which is to see black people who are mentally liberated and truly in charge of their destiny.
Is your industry a good industry for the youth to pursue careers in? Yes, we need to be deliberate about being change agents in society. If anything has to change or grow, we need to be the ones that see to that change or growth. More young people must commit to patriotism. They are the future after all .
What do you do for fun? Since, I’m either at work or at home, I spend my home time with my family, often visiting cites and experiencing the beauty of our country together as a family. What was your first job and how much did you earn? I was a Research Intern at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC). I earned R6500 a month Who inspires you? People who get much done with little resources. People who instead of complaining and blaming despite having reason to, find ways to be impactful and developmental We are our thoughts and actions. Whatever, I put my mind to and activate, I achieve. Respect power and authority even if you disagree with it, it is the beginning of order. With order, all things are possible. What keeps you going? The knowledge that every action we put towards the realisation of our dreams and goals matters. Small steps build up to big things. What leadership lessons have you learnt in your industry? Leadership is not a position but the ability to serve. Only through serving do we get to influence people
What are your long-term career goals? I’m more purpose driven than career driven. Wherever my purpose leads, I will be there to honour the role. With this said, I want to grow my Ntsikelelo Business Solutions consulting business to be a recognisable brand. Do you read books? If yes, what book would you recommend and why? I choose the books I read at a time based on areas of my life I want to grow at a given point. Therefore, I would not recommend a particular book but rather to say, make reading, any reading a part of your routine. We are the books/material we read and the people we hang out with. What is your favourite genre in music? My 12-year-old daughter is my influencer in music right now. I listen to Amapiano because of her. What are the top two quotes you live by? We are what we do, not what we say we will do You always get out your intensions, check your Why before you do anything and make sure you are sincere in your intention.
