Grade 12 girl learners take inspiration from women in the [Sun International] workplace

Take a Girl Child to Work Day is observed in May each year, but Sun International extends this spirit of mentorship and empowerment well beyond a single day. During Women’s Month, the group hosted a series of mentorship experiences across its properties and offices, giving learners the chance to engage with women professionals shaping the future of the hospitality industry.

Central Office

Three learners from Mpilisweni High School of Specialisation in Katlehong spent the day with professionals across Central Office, including Palesa Khoza in HR Operations, Casendrie Pillay in Talent Management and Analytics, and Natasha Sapry in the Shared Services Centre, with a visit to Health and Safety also on the agenda.

Reflecting on the initiative, Heidi Edson, Sun International’s SED Manager, said: “Empowered girls grow into empowered women who shape the world. This Women’s Month, our focus went beyond funding projects — it was about inspiring and supporting the girls who will become tomorrow’s trailblazers. Our greatest investment is in nurturing their potential and providing mentorship that helps them pursue the career paths they dream of.”

Learners shared their reflections:

• Sinalo Mgengo (Tourism): “I learnt about the importance of building relationships and how to work in teams. You also have to push yourself if you want to achieve your dreams.”
• Sithandiwe Zondo (History): “Seeing the work of the marketing team showed me how important it is to know your audience and engage effectively.”
• Lisakhanya Ketshengana (History): “I learnt that lawyers can work in corporate settings and that respect and dignity are essential in the workplace.”

The Maslow, Sandton

Learners from Tembisa School of Specialisation explored hospitality and business careers while receiving guidance from mentors including Sous Chef Elsie Nkala, Security Manager Joanne van der Schyff, and Finance Clerk Sinazo Mtana.

Learners shared their reflections:

• Zandile Ndimande, whose favourite subjects are Business Management and Hospitality, said: “Teamwork makes the dream work.”
• Motshantoa Moloto, who loves Hospitality, noted: “My actions today impact my future. What you learn today, no one can take away from you.”
• Lethabo Moapole, also passionate about Hospitality, said: “Your world is your oyster – your future is in your hands.”

Nkala said: “I was able to advise Zandile and her colleagues based on my own experience. Seeing their curiosity and confidence grow throughout the day was truly rewarding.”

Van der Schyff added: “It was fulfilling to show the girls how diverse the field of security is, from physical safety to risk management, and to see their confidence and curiosity grow.”

Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom

Learners from Greenbury Secondary School visited Sibaya, where they explored different departments and engaged with a variety of mentors, gaining exposure to a wide range of roles across the organisation. Those with specific interests were able to spend more focused time in those areas, allowing for deeper learning and a tailored experience.

Each learner was paired with a mentor aligned to their interests:

• Nokutenda Tiriwepi, interested in IT, was guided by Nischal Raichund, IT Service Delivery Manager.
• Fathima Alli, passionate about Consumer Studies/Culinary, worked with Memory Sithole, F&B Supervisor and Chef De Partie, Cynthia (Tutu) Mthembu, Commis Chef.
• Mandisa Luthuli, also focused on Consumer Studies/Culinary, was mentored by Nokulunga Ngubelanga.

Reflecting on the experience, Pumla Masuku, Sibaya HR Business Partner said: “The learners were able to gain insight into our different departments, interact with our team, and see how each area plays a role in the overall operation. Those with particular interests benefited from spending more time in specific departments, allowing for a more personalized and meaningful learning experience. It was a truly rewarding opportunity to inspire them and help shape their future career aspirations.”

Learner Nokutenda Tiriwepi shared: “We were guided on what to expect after school and how our journey might unfold. Meeting professionals who have achieved so much brought us comfort and excitement we didn’t even know we needed.”

GrandWest

GrandWest welcomed five students from Hector Peterson High School, spanning grades 10 to 12, for a day of career exploration. With so many different career paths available on-site, the property offered the learners a unique chance to see first-hand the variety of roles within a large hospitality and entertainment operation.

Chrissy Dyers, GrandWest’s SED Officer said: “From hospitality and food and beverage to gaming, security, events, marketing, and corporate roles, the property offers a diverse range of career opportunities, giving learners a glimpse into the many paths they could explore within the industry.”

Learners reflected:

• Unathi Ngqanekana (Grade 10): “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts. Believe you can and you’re already halfway.”
• Michelle Chotto (Grade 10, English, aspiring medical scientist/lawyer): “Every career has amazing aspects. You just have to find one that suits you and be open to exploring the unexpected.”
• Gibisela Sowubanathi (Grade 12, English, aspiring head chef/restaurant owner): “Everything is possible if you put your fears aside. I also discovered careers I didn’t know existed before.”
• Ayakha Nkombi (Grade 11, English, aspiring chef): “I learnt about the importance of communication and that everything happens for a reason.”
• Canada Phelokazi (Grade 12, Hospitality Studies, aspiring paralegal/social worker/executive chef): “Hard work pays off. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

“Seeing the possibilities firsthand inspires girls to dream bigger, aim higher, and believe that their future is in their own hands,” said Edson. “With so many inspiring women and diverse career paths at Sun International, we hope this experience has encouraged them to explore their potential and pursue their dreams.”

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