LUTENDO DAMA -SENIOR MANAGER AND INHOUSE MANAGER
driven by the passion to persevere through life’s most challenging moments

Seeing the results of her efforts translating into actual outputs is what Lutendo Dama, Senior Analyst and Inhouse Manager at 21st Century, uses to keep her motivated on her upward climb to success. 21st Century is the largest Remuneration and Rewards company in South Africa and certainly has some powerhouse women within their ranks, with Dama being one of those noted for greatness.

As manager of their inhouse stream, her job scope covers everything from salary benchmarking, to pay scales, to equal pay reports, to Non-Executive director benchmarking; so it’s no wonder that she describes her role as challenging. “It’s taken a lot of hard work and focus, as well as some long nights of chasing deadlines to get me where I am today. I’ve learnt more in the past few years than ever before. It’s definitely all those challenges that have helped me develop the skill set that I have now”, she says.

So, what is it that continuously drives her to do better and better within this competitive landscape? “My opinion is that passion is the most important discipline for success”, says Dama. “When you have passion, you are guaranteed to persevere through even the most challenging moments.” So, persevere she has. With an unwavering commitment to both her team and her clients, she goes out of her way every single day go above and beyond what is expected of her to add superior value. Exactly the work ethic needed to go all the way to the top.

In her downtime, Dama likes to kick back and relax. “My workdays are frenetic. I really do thrive on the fast pace of life at 21st Century, but when it comes to 'me time', that’s exactly what I concentrate on – Me. I love to swim because it forces me to put my head down and zone out completely.  It’s definitely the best thing for clearing my head”, she says. When not in the office or swimming, Dama can usually be found spending time with family and friends, or even just indulging in some reality television, which she loves.

However, downtime is scarce for this femme go-getter. Her five-year plan is set, and nobody is going to stand in her way. “In five years, I would love to be an industry expert that others can go to for ideas, help and strategy. I’ve had amazing managers in my past and current positions, so I’d like to be able to provide similar guidance. I’d also really like to have taken the lead on some projects I’m passionate about.” And once her plan for conquering the world of rewards and remuneration is complete, what then? “Definitely a trip around the world”, Dama says cheekily. “Nothing short of a year should be enough for me to see all the sights I have on my bucket list!”

Dama claims that her secret to success is her eternal optimism. “It’s a bit of a cliché, but I choose to believe that when one door closes, another one will open. Maybe it’s because my name means faith, but I have always been a glass half-full type of person, and it’s a quality I appreciate in others as well. The great thing about it is that we all have the capacity to harness this awesome power; it is just up to us to choose to.”

Dama is a fantastic example of what hard work, determination and focus, combined with passion and optimism can result in, and with an attitude like hers, the world is her oyster.  

-- ENDS --

Issued By:The Lime Envelope
On Behalf Of:21st Century
For Media Information: Bronwyn Levy
Telephone:011 467 9233
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