NEWS DESK

As we near the end of Women’s month, we celebrate our female entrepreneurs who have defied odds and are nurturing viable businesses to date especially in the sports and events industry. We celebrate the mindset shifts, and the outcomes we have obtained in our women empowerment drive as an organisation.

As we conclude our Women’s Month Celebration, we speak to some of the inspirational SAIL GROUP women in leadership as they share words of encouragement to young South African women.

Carol Lourens (Head of Golf)

How has being a part of the SAIL / FLOOID team empowered you on your journey?
I believe that to be empowered is to be an effective contributor. My journey at Flooid as the HOD of the golf division has been a challenging yet enlightening one. I do feel that the empathy that women naturally bring to the arena has allowed me to build trust and confidence in our division. The department as a whole has become successful, with each member, an essential part of the team. They are empowered, effective and excited about our vision and the next Golf tournament. This is the best part of my journey, to know that my team is successful.

What advice or words of encouragement would you share with young South African women?
Young South African women are the most compelling and untapped resource in this country today. They are strong and determined, while compassionate and insightful. These are the qualities of leaders, which can be focused actively to nurture these young ladies to their rightful place of empowerment. I urge them to never give up and believe in themselves. It is all there within them already.

Kari Wiederhold (Head of Events)

How has being a part of the SAIL / FLOOID team empowered you on your journey?
We’re an incredible team of dynamic, dedicated individuals. Being a part of this team, empowers me to have the courage to push the boundaries and try new things. Being part of a supportive community and being trusted to lead a team of passionate individuals, empowers me to create an environment where I can help build and develop others, which, I feel, is crucial in the work environment.

What advice or words of encouragement would you share with young South African women?
Self-discipline and passion will get you a long way in life. Believe that you can achieve anything you want if you are passionate and disciplined enough. Stay humble when you achieve it.

Radha Chhita (Head of Hospitality)

How has being a part of the SAIL / FLOOID team empowered you on your journey?
There is nothing more empowering than learning, growing and feeling proud of what you deliver. This is what the Company has empowered me. By giving me the platform to grow and develop and to enable me to make decisions and voice my opinions.

What advice or words of encouragement would you share with young South African women?
When you start your career, become a specialised in your field before you move to a higher level. This will provide you with the skills to understand the business from bottom up. Don’t be discouraged when things don’t work out, do your best and you will be successful.

Chantelle Fellinger (Head of Legal)

How has being a part of the SAIL / FLOOID team empowered you on your journey?
SAIL has given me the tools and created opportunities for growth and development of my skills and knowledge of the industry. This has assisted me in achieving my goals both in my career and personally – a great opportunity for any woman.

What advice or words of encouragement would you share with young South African women?
Never pass up an opportunity to listen rather than speak, you never know what your valuable lesson you can learn from the next person which will contribute to your success.

Sunaina Singh (Finance Director)

How has being a part of the SAIL / FLOOID team empowered you on your journey?
Prior to being a part of the SAIL/FLOOID family, my perception was that this industry was a male dominant one. I am not ashamed to say that I was wrong. I am home here at SAIL / FLOOID.
When completing my studies, never had I thought that I would find passion in the sporting/entertainment/hospitality industry. Who would have thought? It was always my misperception that “It’s a guy thing”. Certainly not the case. From day 1, the SAIL/FLOOID leaders welcomed me with open arms and accepted me as part of the family. I have been asked for input, my thoughts, my ideas and this has been valued and accepted in contributing to what we are today. I have been empowered to make and take decisions, shape and change the way we operate and this has been recognised and appreciated. The values I have learned here has permeated into the human being that I am outside of this environment as well. I have learnt to strengthen my character as a lady, to back myself and my abilities, to be more decisive, to be bold and willing to go outside of my comfort zone.

What advice or words of encouragement would you share with young South African women?
Let go of the self-doubt and back yourself and your abilities. You don’t know what you don’t know, so be kind to yourself, stop being so self-critical and take the leap of faith to follow your passion. You will be amazed by what you can achieve if you give yourself the opportunity. Don’t fear the unknown. Invest in your education as this is your key into the world.

Ariana Maraj (Head of Human Resources)

How has being a part of the SAIL / FLOOID team empowered you on your journey?
I joined SAIL Group in 2013 – during this stage, the company gave me the foundation to complete my Bachelor Degree. SAIL is always willing to empower staff through development and education. Our Leadership Team has empowered me by valuing my contributions and giving me the relevant platform to enhance my growth in my career development to become a strong, empowered female leader.

What advice or words of encouragement would you share with young South African women?
Never give up on your dreams or your journey, it is now your time to shine. Be proud of who you are, what you stand for, what you have accomplished and how much you have overcome to get where you are. You may not be able to change everything that goes on around you but you have the power to change everything that goes on within you. Don’t let others dictate your capabilities. Grab all opportunities that comes your way that can help you broaden your knowledge, don’t stop learning and growing.