Liberty Two Degrees - Women in Industry

Yongie Ntene

Position: Chief People & Culture Officer
Personal best achievement: I have done my best in consciously and deliberately raising my children to be kind. Our world can do with a whole lot of kindness.
Person I would like to meet the most? Shonda Rhimes - she has an ability to evoke my deepest emotions through her production work which always leaves me reflecting on my sense of being and purpose.
Philosophy of life: At any given point in my life, wherever I am and whatever I am doing, I remind myself it is where I belong, and where I should be, so I owe it to myself to make the best of it, whatever it is.
Message to other women leaders: Leadership is the constant actualisation of our state of mind manifested onto others in their domain of being. It requires creating psychological safety for us to evoke the best from people. To lead is a job. To be a good leader is humanity.

Sumenthree Moodley

Position: Investor Relations Executive
Personal best achievement: My greatest personal achievement has been establishing a successful career while remaining a present mother to my two sons.
Person I would like to meet the most? Roald Dahl - I enjoyed his books as a child and getting an opportunity to delve into his creative presence would be a delight for me.
Philosophy of life: When considering a guiding philosophy, I often think of the quote by Maya Angelou - “My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive and to do so with some passion, compassion, humour
and style.”
Message to other women leaders: Remain resilient in the pursuit of your goals. Life has its ebbs and flows but stay true to your values while leading yourself and others with strength and grace.

Heloise Mgcina

Position: Marketing and Communications Executive
Personal best achievement: I am most proud of the family my husband and I have created. They fill my life with so much joy - they inspire me, challenge me, and remind to be grateful every day. They also reinforce the immense responsibility we play in shaping the hearts and minds of future generations, while creating safe spaces for them to flourish and feel empowered. On the professional front, my stand-out moments have been whenever I have been acknowledged and recognised for my effort, loyalty, passion and commitment.
Person I would like to meet the most? When I watched the movie, Hidden Figures, I came to hear of Katherine Johnson. Katherine studied how to use geometry for space travel. She calculated the paths for the spacecraft to orbit Earth and to land on the moon. NASA used Katherine’s maths, and it worked! Besides her brilliance in maths, she was resilient and able to thrive in an environment that lacked diversity and was discriminatory - testament to her strength of character and self-belief.
Philosophy of life: I always encourage people to put up their hands to do more and learn more - most times with no initial reward. This philosophy has served me well and created great exposure, positioning me well to take up opportunities when they come my way. In the words of a former colleague - be bold, be brave and be bright!
Message to other women leaders: This quote is a good reminder to all leaders: “Leaders who don’t listen will eventually be surrounded by people who have nothing to say.” - Andy Stanley.

Imogen Elaine Mantel

Position: Head of Analysis
Personal best achievement: My biggest achievement is looking back at what I have overcome to be where I am today. Having left my family and home in Namibia at the age of 12, I faced numerous challenges and setbacks. I persevered and was recognised at a provincial level in a number of sporting disciplines as well as maintained a high academic standard, graduating with a BSc (HONS) in Property Studies from the University of Cape Town.
Person I would like to meet the most? The person I would like to meet the most is Jacinda Ardern. She remains a role model in my life with regards to her leadership style and having been the world’s youngest female leader, elected at the age of 37.
Philosophy of life: Take nothing too seriously in life. Find enjoyment in all you do.
Message to other women leaders: Perseverance is frequently underestimated. When you are feeling overwhelmed, focus on what matters most, and success will follow.

Nadia Boyce

Position: Senior Finance Manager
Personal best achievement: My best personal achievement has been spearheading the launch of the gift card solution across the Liberty-owned malls and being recognised for exceptional performance in the Passion for Excellence awards at Liberty Group.
Person I would like to meet the most? The one person I would like to meet is JK Rowling, and that is for the values she embodies of doing what you love, never second guessing your great ideas, not giving up while understanding that beginnings can be tough and embracing your uniqueness.
Philosophy of life: My philosophy is to stay true to self, even if it means going against the flow of others, and staying mindful of your words, actions and thoughts.
Message to other women leaders: Always surround yourself with people who inspire you, help push your boundaries, and enable you to be the best version of yourself. You are the people you keep.

Tirya Moodley

Position: Financial Manager
Personal best achievement: My best personal achievement so far has been getting the opportunity to work abroad after qualifying as a Chartered Accountant. During my CTA year, the goal seemed almost impossible at times. When I look back at how far I have come, I feel fulfilled.
Person I would like to meet the most? The person I would like to meet the most is Thuli Madonsela - who is the living embodiment of bravery and courage for me.
Philosophy of life: In all that you do, always give it your best and that will be more than enough. Live with no regrets.
Message to other women leaders: I would like to encourage a culture of empowerment amongst women leaders in South Africa. This is the only way we can achieve collective growth and build each other up.

Farhana Haffejee

Position: Head of Legal
Personal best achievement: After obtaining qualifications as an attorney and conveyancer, I have diligently honed my skills and expertise in the real estate sector over the past 20 years. This extensive experience has allowed me to offer my clients unparalleled guidance and exceptional service in their real estate endeavours. My ongoing personal achievement lies in my unwavering commitment to continuous learning and my relentless pursuit of opportunities to expand my knowledge to ultimately endeavour to enhance my mental and physical longevity.
Person I would like to meet the most? Indra Nooyi - for being a transformational leader who successfully led PepsiCo through a period of meaningful change and growth. As a female leader and woman of colour, Indra’s journey to the top multinational corporation can be highly inspirational for individuals seeking to overcome barriers and challenges in their own careers.
Philosophy of life: Empower your well-being by nurturing your mind and body. A strong and resilient mind is the foundation for a healthy body. Embrace the power of positive thoughts and affirmations, as your thoughts have the power to shape your reality. By cultivating positivity, you will radiate a vibrant energy that positively impacts both your inner and outer world. Remember, your journey towards a healthier and happier life starts with nurturing both your mental and physical health.
Message to other women leaders: Stand tall with confidence and embrace your authentic self. Your uniqueness is a wellspring of immense value, and by owning your distinct talents, you contribute powerfully to the tapestry of the business landscape. Embrace your journey with pride and let your authenticity be the cornerstone of your success. Together, we can amplify our impact and inspire generations to come. By joining forces and collaborating, we can create a powerful force for positive change in the real estate sector and other areas of life whilst recognising that each woman’s journey is unique and deserving of encouragement and support.

Tshegofatso Raphala

Position: Business Manager & Lead Specialist: Strategy
Personal best achievement: There is no single thing that defines my best achievement. It is a combination of many challenges and successes that have built my character and seen me to where I am today. My best achievement remains an ongoing journey.
Person I would like to meet the most? I hope to meet my daughter in a future world where she is empowered by and celebrated by her own abilities, talents and contributions to society - not because it is a requirement to meet a quota for equality.
Philosophy of life: Show up in your life! Whether you are feeling bold and confident or wounded and weary - show up and never underestimate the value you have in life.
Message to other women leaders: Everything that makes women wonderful is everything that makes them such extraordinary leaders - that’s strength. Lead with it.