Xoli Shabalala is a Director at Tongaat Hulett Developments and iLembe Chamber Board Member

What were your biggest fears embarking on breaking into an industry?
My greatest fear has always been to fail. I have recently leant to accept that there will be failures along the way and that failure is very necessary for my personal growth. What’s important is to draw lessons and to grow from those experiences. 

What advice would you give other women wanting to take the leap into a business or industry, which traditionally does not feature women as prominent industry leaders?
This is our time! Being in the property industry, it has been encouraging to see the growth in women participation across the property value chain. It is important that as women we continuously rethink our roles in the industry and to strategically position ourselves to ensure that we remain relevant in this fast-changing environment.

What are the top three strengths in your personality, that you believe helped you succeed in business?
My three strengths are that I have an inquisitive mind, am adaptable and have resilience.

Do you have a motto?
It’s a bit of a cliché but my motto has always been “Live life to the Full, Live with No Regrets”.

How do you manage stress?
Road running. I’ve recently joined a social running club in my neighbourhood. I find that running helps clear my mind.

Any advice on how to reconcile work/motherhood?
I’m not a mother yet, but I am a wife. There is a quote I came across that read” you can’t do a good job if your job is all do”. Thus, my success as a wife is important for my success at work. To achieve this, I make conscious choices daily to spend meaningful time with my family.

Do you have any mentors? How has their influence shaped your decisions? What did you learn from them?
There are a number of women and men that have been instrumental in my journey. Some have actively, and others unknowingly, contributed to my growth and development. They have taught me many work and life lessons but most importantly to trust my instincts. I believe in lifelong learning and I continuously seek guidance from those that have walked the road.

Are there any life defining moments that contributed to your choosing the industry you are in, or inspired you to make decisions?
After spending five years in Pretoria at the National Treasury, I was looking to relocate to Durban. I was fortunate to be called for an interview at Tongaat Hulett Developments where my career in property began. Since joining the company over two years ago, I have grown tremendously. This is primarily attributable to the dynamic learning environment within Tongaat Hulett and the invaluable exposure I have received through serving in the iLembe Chamber of Commerce.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received in life?
“Your greatest competitive advantage is that there is no one else like you. So, be yourself.”