Raksha Naidoo – The Particle Group CEO and Women in Mining South Africa chairperson

Main activity of company: My purpose every day is how to help others become the strongest versions of themselves, and in doing so, deliver growth and success to all stakeholders. 

Management style: I believe very strongly in servant leadership, which is something that I work hard to master.  I also believe in collaborative cultures and building a team that prioritises people. 

Personal best achievement: There have been many proud moments in my 40-odd years.  Stepping into my leadership role has been a great triumph, being afforded the opportunity to lead the WiMSA team is hugely rewarding as I can see every day the positive impact we make on our society, as well as seeing my match-making efforts pay off when I see happy people together.  Seeing people develop professionally and personally, without doubt gives me a great sense of achievement.  When I see people in my team buy their first car or first home or go on an overseas trip for the first time, or helping another human being in whatever capacity - knowing that I was able to play a tiny role in those milestones brings me the greatest joy.

Person you would most like to meet: Right now, I would love to meet either Satya Nadella or Sundar Pichai and listen to their debates on AI and its future in our lives. I am so overwhelmed and slightly terrified by AI, and have so many questions. And with the positions that their organisations play in this space, I would love to pick their brains and understand how they intend to positively impact the world with this technology. 

Philosophy of life: I have always maintained that life is all about choices, so I choose happiness.  Life is filled with challenges, sorrows and stresses, but it is also filled with immense beauty.  So I choose, as best as I can, to focus on the positives, to bring positivity into the world, and to ultimately protect my own peace as I choose happiness. 

Message for other women leaders in the South African business community: One of the greatest strengths that we have as women, is that we are female.  We need to use that superpower, and show up no matter what, no matter where.  Life will be difficult, people will disappoint you, and the journey will sometimes have bumps in the road.  But it’s the choices that we make and how we navigate ourselves, that will always make us better, stronger and more successful.  Be bold and speak your truths, be brave and stand up against biases and challenges, and always believe in yourself and in the power that you have.