My Brilliant Career: Self-confidence is half the battle

Tell me more about the Historically Disadvantaged Individuals Automotive Aftermarket Associations Forum.

The forum pursues the transformation of the automotive sector so that it reflects the demographics of South Africa in terms of ownership and control. It is also concerned with the sustainable development and growth of black-owned small, micro and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) for employment and wealth creation as well as inclusive economic growth.

What does your role as the chair entail?

The chair is responsible for leading the forum and focusing it on strategic matters. As the chair, my responsibility is to lead the forum by chairing meetings and focusing the forum on strategic matters, overseeing its business and setting high governance standards.

What makes you good at what you do?

I have more than 28 years of business management experience at an executive level. I have a proven track record of engaging key stakeholders and building relationships to design and implement solutions. I also have good business acumen and a strong entrepreneurial sense.

I can work both independently and in a team environment, and thrive in a diverse and fast-paced environment.

What did you want to be when you were a child?

As a child I aspired to be a neurologist. What motivated this was the birth of Mpho and Mphonyana Mathibela. They made headlines when they were born conjoined at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in 1986. The twin girls were joined at the head and a decision was made for them to be separated.

As I got older, I became more aware of the particular needs and challenges that the country was experiencing, so I decided that I should rather pursue a career in leadership and development.

What advice do you have for young people at the beginning of their careers?

Make your accomplishments known. Don’t let your lack of knowledge about a subject or others’ lack of confidence in you hold you back. If you can see yourself doing something, you have won more than half the battle. If you can see yourself as successful, others will see you that way too. Many successful professionals have become successful because they ask important questions. Maintain a curious disposition and ask questions in all professional environments. Asking questions can build your knowledge and contribute to your learning process and development.

What qualities do you look for when recruiting for your team?

The important qualities of a good candidate include teamwork, willingness to learn, communication, self-motivation and culture fit. Top skills to look for include: