1. SAWIEN PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH - YOLANDE STRAMPE
SAWIEN member, Yolande Strampe Engelbrecht, answered a few questions for us in our quick Q&A.
Yolande is an accounts manager at Sizwe IT Group, providing technical solar solutions to the corporate and industrial
sectors. Her day-to-day responsibilities include liaising with key clients, assisting with cost analysis for projects and
securing projects and tenders.
1. What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy making a sustainable difference in the environment. Knowing that what I do today is part of how we are changing
the outcome of tomorrow, is very rewarding.
2. Growing up, what did you dream of becoming?
I always wanted to make a positive difference in people’s lives and the world. Growing up I wanted to become a human
rights lawyer.
3. a. What is the best professional advice you ever received?
Always conduct your business affairs in an ethical and transparent manner and get everything in writing.
b. And personal?
The best personal advice I ever received was from my mother. She always told me to follow my dreams and live my life to
my fullest potential. Believe in yourself and never let anyone dictate to you what YOUR potential is.
4. What personality trait do you think is crucial for success in business?
Passion. Passion drives us not to give up in the face of adversity. If you are truly passionate about what you do you will
find a way to overcome every possible obstacle in your way.
5. What is your best tip for saving energy?
Optimise your energy usage - every bit helps. Start by reducing your load, like switching to LED lights and using alternative
heating solutions. This will have a huge impact if you escalate to a solar system for your home, commercial or industrial
premises, which I feel is the best energy solution.
6. How do you wind down after a busy day?
I belong to Curves Farramere, an all-women’s gym. I find exercise is a great stress reliever and way to wind down. I also
enjoy reading with fiction being my favourite genre.