Diversity and inclusion are part of the DNA of RS as it celebrates Women’s Day
In celebration of National Women’s Day on 9 August, RS South Africa, a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions, celebrates the role and contribution of three exceptional women at the company. RS encourages an inclusive work environment where every employee feels valued, respected, and heard. Our people help us do what we do, and we are immensely proud to have an incredibly talented and diverse workforce around the globe focused on delivery excellence for our customers and partners.
Edna Lerato Mokhatla, Receiving Clerk
Edna commenced her career at RS in 2003 as a cleaner through contract company Super Care and was employed permanently in July 2006. During this period, she shadowed employees in different departments with the support of her manager. Her line manager encouraged her to further her studies, which resulted in her obtaining a National Certificate qualification in Fundamental Computer and Business Administration. Edna is currently studying Events Management and working in the RS Distribution Centre as a Receiving Clerk.
“Working at RS has been a breath of fresh air given how I have progressed at the company over the years, which fills me with pride. I love that every day presents me with different challenges. This has meant that I have had an opportunity to gain an understanding of the industry and develop my problem-solving, sales, administration, and organisational skills,” says Edna.
The challenges faced by Edna as a woman in her position have largely revolved around the fact that women’s capabilities are generally underrated by their male colleagues. “Women are assumed to only know a portion of the work and can only execute that portion, whereas men in the same position are offered higher salaries. Women need to be supported by a company like RS to grow and develop in their careers.”
Her message to young women contemplating a similar career path is to work hard and make sure you leave a mark. “This industry requires women who know what they want, are unafraid of challenges, and can face those challenges and learn from them so they emerge victorious.”
Portia Xaki, Marketing Supervisor
Portia has been at RS for just over seven months and describes it as an exciting journey thus far. “Working with such a vast range of products and brands has been challenging. However, it has also been an excellent opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills. Being part of an e-commerce business in the B2B space aligns with my interest in digital marketing, which is very fulfilling.”
One of Portia’s first big projects was supporting the migration of the South African website to a mobile responsive platform, an excellent testament to her growth and adaptability. “Being part of a global organisation like RS has provided unique opportunities for my career development and exposure to diverse perspectives. The company culture is amazing and very inclusive and has made me feel like part of the team from day one.”
Portia has a National Certificate in Business Management, a Strategic Brand Management certificate from IMM, and is currently in the final year of her Marketing Management degree. She explains that RS aims to create an environment that welcomes and values individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. By promoting diversity, RS attracts a range of talented individuals, fostering innovation and creativity within the organisation.
She says the industry has undergone some transformation over the years, with advancements in technology and processes. “However, I strongly believe that there is still room for improvement to make it easier for women to forge ahead.” It includes promoting equal opportunities for females, addressing the gender pay gap, recognising females for their hard work, and challenging and breaking down traditional gender stereotypes that may discourage women from pursuing a career in this industry.
Her message to young women is to “believe in yourself, embrace creativity, stay curious, support other women, and maintain a work-life balance. Remember you can break barriers and pave the way for future generations of women in marketing. Have confidence in your abilities and embrace the opportunities that come your way. Believe in your potential to shine.”
Tidimalo Chrishelda Senosi, Customer Experience Manager
Tidimalo reveals that working at RS has truly been “a life-changing experience for me in terms of the amazing career and educational opportunities I have been afforded.” She started her journey at RS as a Customer Experience Advisor, then Customer Experience Supervisor, and has now been Customer Experience Manager for the past few years since joining the company sixteen years ago. “Personally, I can say I am more than happy with my growth and development and still excited as to where my journey will take me.”
RS is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion and it is part of the company’s DNA to embrace each other. It has implemented various initiatives to support diversity and inclusion and has established a Diversity and Inclusion Council comprising of employees from different backgrounds and cultures who now form part of the company’s Employment Equity committee.
Her challenges have been ensuring that her voice is heard and that she is perceived as more than just a woman, but holistically in terms of her position and professional abilities. “As a Black woman in management, sometimes there is a race or gender bias that is not intentional. However, other parties do not notice it as it is perceived as being part of the status quo. There are many walls to break down just to get your voice heard before you can make meaningful changes.”
Women’s Day reminds Tidimalo “of the freedom I get to enjoy and the many opportunities that are now available to me, all thanks to the courageous women who fought so hard to pave a better path for us. I believe that we should continue to find strength in what they did and continue fighting for equality in the workplace to balance the gender scales because we have not reached the ultimate goal yet.”
