5 MICRONS

The move I made gave me the words I live by and coincidentally also the career advice I give to people looking for a steer; and that is to ‘back yourself’.  I reflect on that young woman who decided to risk it all and pick up sticks to an entirely new country in the face of quite a few people telling me it wouldn’t work and I’m in awe of how brave she was! It’s that sheer tenacity of will and self-belief that got me through the early years of living in London which were quite challenging given the culture shock. And the weather! I think taking the chance in the way that I did makes me less fearful of the unknown and I’m more receptive to change – both personally and professionally which has been immensely helpful over the years.

I studied Economics and Finance in University and I loved the experience so much that I decided to tack on a Law degree. After which I trained at a leading law firm in South Africa, where I qualified into the corporate practice. My formative years spent in private practice really shaped me – it was by no means easy given the calibre of the firm but it definitely shaped my work ethic which is something I still carry through today. It also exposed me to different leadership styles from quite a young age and that’s benefitted me as I’ve progressed and shaped my own approach. I was given the opportunity to go on a short secondment at a multi-national firm, providing support as interim general counsel and it was from that experience where I realised that my future in law was in-house. I decided to move to London shortly after this and at the time it made sense to make the career change along with the move. I joined a boutique consultancy firm for a few months while I found my feet and then joined a Big 4 professional services firm as I was looking for a more challenging role. I’d initially thought that I’d do the typical 2 year stint before heading back to South Africa but then of course I fell in love! I’ve been with the same firm for a few years, which is surprising to me given I’m not fearful of change. I’ve stayed because I’ve found myself in the fortunate position where my role has continued to evolve over the years, I’m consistently challenged and I’ve been able to progress my career. And I by and large enjoy what I do which I feel quite privileged to say.

I’m a people person so I love working with the fantastic lawyers in my team, I get a great degree of energy from them and I’ve really enjoyed the exercise of building my team. There’s also the added benefit of engaging with incredibly smart people in my firm as well as globally. It’s an intellectually challenging environment (in a good way) and the stretch is consistent which I love. I get great enjoyment from helping people develop and progress through their careers – it’s quite rewarding seeing people that you’ve worked with hit their personal milestones.

I strongly believe that clothes are a valid tool of self expression, more so in a professional context as I feel it lends gravitas to an individual. So often women are made to feel that caring about how you present will somehow detract from how competent you are and I just don’t agree with that at all. We can enjoy and have fun with our clothes while still being incredible at our jobs. I know that when I feel and look good it’s evident in the way I show up and that can only be a good thing.

I love how soft it is, it feels like a treat to wear which is a great way to start the working day. It’s also incredibly versatile as I can very easily incorporate it into my workwear wardrobe while also being able to wear the same pieces styled differently during down time. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s incredibly easy to move in which is great when you’re running after a 3 year old!

I have very specific career aspirations in mind which I’m currently working on. 2024 was also the year I decided to work on more purpose led initiatives outside of the office; working with a local school and a charity aimed at supporting women in Sub-Saharan Africa so I’d like to continue doing more of that alongside growing the Lawyers’ Dining Club. And of course to continue making happy memories with my family in preferably hot destinations!

What are you currently reading ? All Fours by Miranda (like everyone else on the planet!)

What are you binging on TV? Currently working through Industry which I’m still not sure about

What Podcasts are in your ears? The Receipts, Spill, How Long Gone

Favourite flowers? I’m a basic girl at heart so I’m’ going to say Parrot Tulips as it signifies that Spring is on the way

Favourite scent? The jasmine in our garden over summer

Best piece of advice you’ve received? It will all work out because it has to so just go with it.

Best time management hack? Avoid unnecessary multi-tasking, it’s not the hack we were told it was!

Your first fashion moment? My ballerina outfit when I was a little girl. A matching pink leotard, tights and ballet shoes – get in! I think that’s when my love of monochrome started 😊

Fave piece from our collection? I adore the Navy Kitten Bow Top – I think I can wear it with almost everything in my wardrobe – I’m big on versatility!

Favourite Fashion Brands? Proenza Schouler

Dream Purchase? A house in Clifton, Cape Town – is real estate allowed?

Summer or Winter? Definitely summer!

Do you have a superpower? Having a good time!

Photographer Susheel Schroeder