Meet the BEST women

“We are very grateful to the women who implement BEST. Without their skills and commitment to our clients and solutions, we would not be the success that we are,” says Elaine Ferraris, Programme Manager.

Swarupa Algu, Project Manager has been with BEST for 10 years. “I enjoy working in our fun and diverse team and meeting new clients and people through various projects we embark on.

The IT space has grown tremendously and over the years and has seen more women joining this fast-growing field. From my own personal experience, I graduated in accounting and finance, however, in my second year of articles I realised that finance was not my interest, and I changed to the IT and consulting space. My advice is, it is never too late to change your passion and career path and do what you truly enjoy.”

In terms of work-life balance: “I take time off as needed to reenergise and refresh. I try to plan and prioritise my tasks and set boundaries.” “As a new mom I love spending time with my new little family. I enjoy travelling and experiencing a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. During some alone time, I enjoy watching on a good Netflix series.”

Danelle Lottering, Reader Consultant, enjoys meeting and collaborating with people from around the globe. “Recently, I transitioned to the technical side of our business, and I relish the opportunity to learn new skills and enhance my expertise in different areas. It may sound cliché, but you always find time for the things that matter most to you. Prioritising what’s important helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance.”

Her advice is “To not let self-doubt hinder your progress and to never stop learning. Continuous self-improvement is key to success in this field.”

“Outside of work, I cherish spending weekends with my family, exploring new places, and trying new activities. I also enjoy relaxing with a good TV series, accompanied by my husband and our two beloved pets.”

Dimakatso Baloyi, AP consultant has been with BEST for 11 years. “At BEST we are all given an opportunity to learn and upskill ourselves, the management are approachable and accessible and show appreciation to their team.”

Katso keeps a work-life balance by keeping to specified working hours, which makes it easier for her to allocate time for work responsibilities, time for family responsibilities and time for my studies as well. She also prioritises tasks, which helps her to focus, without being overwhelmed.

 “I always try to get things done on time and don’t wait for the last minutes to action things.”

Katso’s advice is: “Don’t be too scared to fail, if you’re asked to do something outside your comfort zone, give it a go. Don’t fear rejection, everyone has been rejected before. Keep learning to boost your confidence. Always celebrate what you bring to the table even though you might not be recognised a times and lastly, never count yourself out. 

 For leisure, she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends and taking online courses.

Khiara Bharath, AP Consultant & Project Manager, makes time for self-care and prioritises work hours.

She said she enjoys working at BEST because she is always learning, and it forces her to become multi-skilled. Khiara’s advice to newcomers is: “Build relationships and be ready to expand your knowledge.” 

Khiara is a part-time makeup artist on the weekends.

Bronwen van Rooyen has been an AP & Reader Consultant for six years. She regards BEST as her second family and enjoys dealing with customers and her colleagues. She said she maintains a work-life balance with good time management and through routines. Her advice is: “Keep abreast of changes withing the IT environment. As a young woman you need to be passionate in what you do, the ability to adapt to the environment.”

For leisure Bronwen enjoys reading, gardening, watching a good romantic movie and spending time with the family.

Danet Vosloo has been a GL Consultant since 2017. “I love that I’m always learning something new and growing as an employee and as a professional.”

Danet finds it difficult to keep a work-life balance. “I don’t have a work-life balance, and most days are chaos. However, I follow the approach of one day at a time and currently that is working for me. Fortunately, my children are a bit older and more independent.”

Her advice is: “Integrity is paramount in a consulting career. It’s the foundation upon which trust with clients and colleagues is built. Upholding ethical standards is a keystone to a successful career.”

Outside of work, Danet loves reading, travelling and everything vegan.

Nyasha Chigumba, has been an AP Consultant for nine years. “Working with talented and supportive colleagues makes each day enjoyable and challenging days tolerable. I have been exposed to new challenges regularly which has helped me grow professionally and personally.”

In terms of work-life balance, she said: “I have a good support network at home (my family and friends) and at work (my colleagues). Having a good support network helps me focus on what is important and prioritise things better.”

Nyasha’s advice to young women is: “The IT field is very broad, therefore it’s very important to do your research and identify what will suit best your skills and personality. Networking with the IT specialists in the area you are interested in pursuing will help you get a better understanding of the career path and the best guidance that will assist to move your career forward. if you can, do voluntary work for different IT companies. Getting certified or doing applicable courses will help you get a better understanding and might help you land a job in the specific area you are interested.”

Outside of work Nyasha enjoys spending time with her twin daughters, taking walks, reading, watching tv shows and travelling.