Profiles

Woman of the Month: Queen Ndlovu

Jan 22, 2024 in CEO, Profiles, Woman of the Month, Women in Tech

Name: Queen Ndlovu
Designation: CEO
Company: QP Drone

• What do you do every day?
Usually I wake up with a little prayer, study for my PHD degree between 5 and 7am and then take a 30min walk. I then prepare to go to the office until 6 to 7pm and then study for 2 to 3 hours and go back home. 

• How did you get into the tech space?
I studied the future market and read books on successful start-up stories such as Elon Musk and Steve Jobs and thereafter decided to go to the Business School  for Masters in Entrepreneurship in which one module was about technology and the other one was about Global Entrepreneurship. As a result I  chose Drone Technology and subsequently went to Shenzhen, China for 6 months to learn more about the technology.

• What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
“Just Start” (from my late grandmother) anything you envisage to do. What she meant just do it because if you start, you get motivated to finish unlike procrastination.

• What advise would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
It is important to choose what you are passionate about and see what solutions you can create should you introduce your tech accordingly. Research, research and research and how are you going to solve the pain of the customers using the chosen tech

• What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
Making a significant difference to the world and young people in my own little way.

• What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
Save the planet and its people by making it sustainable and creating some wealth for my generation. 

Woman of Week: Siphokazi Magaya

Aug 30, 2023 in IT, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Siphokazi Magaya
Designation:  IT officer
Company: Umzimkhulu Local Municipality

1. What do you do every day?
I specialise in active directory monitoring  and management of security systems. I also play a role in IP telephone management.

2. How did you get into the tech space?
I studied IT at a private college after completing matric in 2006 and landed my job in 2013.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Focus on growing yourself in IT knowledge. It is evolving and will never lose its credibility.

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
It is the most interesting space, just your niche and flow with it.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
Solving new problems and learning new things everyday.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
I would like to be the head of security in a financial institution.

Woman of the Week: Lucille Britz

Aug 30, 2023 in Head of security, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Lucille Britz
Designation: Head of security
Company: MTN

1. What do you do every day?
I am responsible for maintaining and improving the security for SEA and MENA OPCO’s. This means leading, directing and co-ordinating various tasks across functional and regional sectors.

The most important part of my job is the line management as part of the vertical structure that was implemented around tw years ago.

2. How did you get into the tech space?
It just happened, much like the way my career took off. My career kicked off with Telkom where I coached trainers in the technology and data areas.

After five years, my career took a turn towards project and change management on network projects still within the technology domain.

After ten years of exposure in the telecoms space I decided to explore the financial industry and worked for three major banks for about 15 years, looking after security and technology operations.

A wonderful challenging opportunity was presented by MTN in group information security and I enjoyed the MENA Regional work for about three years.

In my current position I am head of  security for SEA and MENA. I still have a lot to learn but I am always ready for the next challenge.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Take it minute by minute!

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
Nothing is personal and your best is good enough. Just do it and make understanding technology your everyday business.

Look at available positions in the technology and security sectors.

Concentrate on skills development and education, work with a plan to get yourself ready.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
My love for life and exploring new places.
My job happens to be one of my passions.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
A Tech Savvy COO or VP. But before I reach this goal, I need to understand how to excel in delivery on a regional CTIO level and give myself another 1-2 years to master execution in close collaboration with technology leaders.

Woman of the Week: Jacquie Hough

Aug 27, 2023 in MSP specialist, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Jacquie Hough
Designation: MSP specialist
Company: ESET Southern Africa

1. What do you do every day?
I lead the Managed Service Providers (MSP) and Internet Service Providers (ISP) business units at ESET SA, providing support to the sales team in achieving their targets and assisting their partners.

Most often, I will be onboarding new partners into our MSP program, getting them trained and on the path to creating a successful MSP business of their own, however if I am not holding onboarding meetings, I can usually be found with my head in some form of data analysis or product management and process building, or working with marketing on events, copy for articles, social media engagements, etc.

No two days are the same, and no partner is the same as another, and I make it my personal mantra to know each of them by name and they know me.

2. How did you get into the tech space?
I have always been interested in technology from a young age, and discovered coding (HTML, Javascript, etc.) and website design in the late 90’s after doing a graphic design degree.

The next few years I was a technical consultant in an engineering business, and then I moved to London in 2004.
In 2005, I was offered a temporary maternity cover position at a company specialising in disaster recovery  and business continuity. It soon became obvious that I had found my happy place with a career in technology, and was made permanent within three months. For the next ten years, I made it my business to know everything I could about the business of DR and BC.

I was lucky enough to be among the first to build our “Cloud” server farm, and dip my toes in emerging Cloud technology.

After returning to SA in 2015, I began working with an ISP in CT, and then started at ESET in 2021 as their MSP/ISP Business Specialist.

So, never pass up an opportunity – even a temporary one -, because you never know where it might lead.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My dad has always said one thing: “Remain humble.”

While this seems to be very simple advice, it is often difficult to do and we can get carried away on our career journey with all the shiny opportunities that come along, but equally, his advice has served me well during my career, gotten me to where I am now, and where my career will continue to take me.

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
Do it with all you might! But find something that you are passionate about in the tech space because it is HUGE and constantly evolving.

I’ve always loved tech and design, but it was not until I started working at ESET, that I found my path. I have no doubt that my path will change and evolve and have many twists and turns, but that is what a career that you are passionate about will do. It’s meant to challenge and change and stretch you.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
Aside from my triathlon coaches with some (un)reasonable early morning training, I’d say the people I work with and where I work. There is always something new to learn every day be it from a personal growth perspective or something in the tech world that catches my eye and gives me reason to pause, usually followed by: “I wonder if I could do that” (not by being self-limiting, but from a resources and ‘how to/how long’ perspective).

And finally, not forgetting that all important work/life balance when I close my laptop at the end of another successful day, and can relax until it all starts again the next day.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
Just me.

Woman of the Week: Rinah Letsebe

Aug 23, 2023 in Environmental Health and Safety Analyst, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Rinah Letsebe
Designation: Environmental Health and Safety Analyst
Company: Eaton

1. What do you do every day?
As an EHS Analyst and Internal Auditor for ISO 45001 and 14001, I evaluate environmental health and safety risks in both the electrical and industrial sectors. I monitor compliance with legal guidelines and perform surveys, inspections, and audits. I guide the project management team on OH&S management systems. Additionally, I lead a Zero Incident Safety Culture, where every employee feels responsible for workplace safety, protecting their personal well-being as well as the well-being of their colleagues.

2. How did you get into the tech space? I studied Electrical Infrastructure and Constructions and entered the field through an electrical engineering apprenticeship, ultimately qualifying as an Electrician. I then pursued further studies in Project Management and Environmental Health and Safety Management.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
 Do what you are afraid to do. Sometimes, the one thing you need for growth is the one thing you are most afraid of doing. Be afraid and do it anyway. Pray before every decision, whether big or small.

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
The tech industry is broad, so you must be open to continuous improvement and willing to learn.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
The small daily goals I’ve set for myself motivate me to keep working. These small wins lead to big victories.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
 I want to become the best version of myself and inspire women who still believe it’s not possible.

 

Paving the way to a brighter business future – Rochelle Roos

Aug 21, 2023 in Mentoring, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Rochelle Roos
Designation: Coach and trainer
Company: www.wedochange.io

This Women’s Month, we introduce you to Rochelle Roos, a pioneering woman in the South African business space.

As a dedicated Agile coach and organisational transformation specialist, Rochelle has been disrupting the status quo and creating a more inclusive and collaborative work environment for all. Her journey from a startup team member to a successful business owner is nothing short of inspirational, and her commitment to empowering women in the tech sector shines through in her advocacy for gender equality and diversity.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is enabling my clients to have a clear direction and focus on their endeavours. As a woman business owner in tech, I take pride in guiding organisations to achieve quantifiable success across all areas of their business. Being able to contribute to their growth and success brings immense satisfaction,” she says.

How did you get into the tech space?

Rochelle’s path into the business space began when she joined a startup, where she wore multiple hats and discovered her passion for Agile and Scrum methodologies. She was immediately drawn to the potential of these methodologies in improving software development processes and creating a more inclusive and collaborative work environment.

“I was inspired by the Agile approach’s emphasis on open communication and the value placed on ideas, regardless of hierarchy. I saw first-hand how Agile empowered teams and fostered a culture of continuous improvement.”

After honing her craft, Rochelle now finds great joy and purpose in helping individuals and organisations take ownership of their own roles, experience job satisfaction and happiness, and prosper while growing, learning, and developing into the best version of themselves.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness my clients flourish in their professional journeys, especially female clients, who often face greater challenges. As a business owner, I actively support and advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality and diversity in the tech and business sector. By engaging with policymakers, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse landscape.”

Ten important tips for women in business

Rochelle’s advice for other women looking to find their niche in the tech and business world can be summarised in these ten simple points:

  • Believe in Yourself: Trust your abilities and believe that you belong in the field. Be confident in your skills and knowledge, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.
  • Seek Supportive Networks: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Seek mentors, allies, and peers who encourage your growth and help you navigate challenges.
  • Embrace Your Uniqueness: Embrace your unique perspectives and experiences. The business industry thrives on diverse ideas, and your authentic voice can contribute to innovation.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay curious and committed to learning, personal growth, and development. Technology and business are ever evolving, and being open to new knowledge will enhance your skills and adaptability.
  • Network and Collaborate: Engage with industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities. Build relationships with professionals in the sector and collaborate on projects that interest you
  • Take Initiative: Don’t be afraid to take on new challenges and opportunities. Show initiative and seek out projects or roles that align with your passions and career goals.
  • Be Resilient: The business world can be demanding, but resilience is key to overcoming obstacles and setbacks. Learn from failures and keep pushing forward.
  • Advocate for Yourself: Be your own advocate and communicate your aspirations and contributions effectively. Ensure that your ideas and achievements are recognised and valued.
  • Create a Supportive Space: Create a supportive work environment where your authentic self can flourish. Foster a culture that values diversity and empowers all employees to thrive.
  • Explore Different Opportunities: In business, there are numerous opportunities and roles to explore so don’t limit yourself. Be open to trying different paths until you find the one that resonates best with you, your skills and personality and your goals.

For more about WE DO CHANGE or to engage with Rochelle Roos or one of their experts visit: www.wedochange.io  or email: info@wedochange.io.

Woman of the Month: Tania Joffe

Aug 7, 2023 in CEO, Profiles, Woman of the Month, Women in Tech

Name: Tania Joffe
Designation: CEO & Principal
Company: Unu Health

  1. What do you do every day?
    I am in touch with sales on a daily basis and celebrate all new client acquisitions – the drive for confirmation of product market fit in the first year of a start up’s life is a big focus, as is the establishment of predictable and scalable growth. Additionally, connecting with each member of our leadership team throughout the week, so effectively daily meets, is also key – we draw on each other for stamina and support through the many cortisol baths.

  2. How did you get into the tech space?
    I love tech when it works, when it is effectively invisible and just enables a user to achieve a goal, an outcome …. when it’s so intuitive, that there’s almost no awareness of it. Tech in service of us owning our wellbeing can be so powerful, if curated and orchestrated in that intuitive and invisible way… So while I lead a health-tech, my focus is on how we transform healthcare. Much of my career has been in financial services, which has seen so much tech enabled change, with big adoption of mobile banking, automation etc. It’s striking that healthcare is not delivered at scale via our mobile devices. My background is not tech. I’ve run large scale financial services operations, where we’ve leveraged tech to introduce new channels and customer facing capabilities.

  3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
    Take the shot, always… ‘The man in the arena’…

  4. What advise would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
    We are all in tech, as users and consumers. You are in tech, and there are so many facets to the ‘tech space’ which is evolving so quickly, with careers emerging constantly. Increasingly, all roles touch tech, whether in terms of design, user experience, actual dev work/ coding, or more broadly in terms of ethics and legal frameworks etc. I am not sure that there is ‘a way’, as I think my own journey demonstrates.

  5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
    I am absolutely driven, even possessed, by the thought that we have the opportunity to transform healthcare, and in doing that, improve the lives of so many people in Africa by reducing the disease burden that’s disproportionately carried by those with  less means – and that among those, who we may impact, there may be the person that helps us solve the impact of climate change, or is a force for greater gender equality  and so forth. A virtuous spiral of positive impact for good.