1. What’s the biggest factor that has helped you to become successful?
Picking career paths and employers that have embraced me holistically as a woman, cognisant of the multiple roles that I play. Making a conscious decision that I can excel in all areas of my life and that each aspect of my life feeds the other.
2. Old Mutual, specifically your BU MFC, is full of women on many levels – is this intentional and when do you believe it started becoming a focus?
It is an intentional stance by a progressive company that has been in existence for 179 years. Old Mutual sees strength in diversity, not just across gender lines but by race, ethnicity, nationality, profession, background, and expression.
3. As a female leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career? Have you been confronted with gender-related roadblocks in your career?
I have been lucky enough to appreciate that I have earned my seat at the table and that being a woman doesn’t lend me inferior to my male counterparts. Interestingly enough, it is my male colleagues and seniors who have been the wind behind my wings, supportive of every career decision I have made.
4. What mistakes have you made along the way and what did you learn from them?
I went through a stage where I thought that I would have to choose between my role as a mother, daughter, wife, aunt, and my career. This mindset set me back in some respects, though it was only for a short period. I now know that all these roles can co-exist in a perfectly harmonious fashion and that one can shoot the lights out in absolutely every aspect of their life. It is about having the right mindset.
5. How do you think Old Mutual has benefited from having more women at the top?
Old Mutual has a long-standing history of being one of the best employers to work for. Having many women in influential positions has not only inspired other organizations to follow suit but has instilled confidence in many young and older women that they can contribute meaningfully to society at every level.
6. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
I would encourage young women to not allow themselves to be put into any box and stereotyped. They must know that they can live life to their full potential and be successful, happy, global citizens who contribute meaningfully to the progression of mankind.
7. Do or did you have a woman leader as a mentor or are there specific women who inspired you and why?
It would have to be my mother. She raised many children, including orphans over and above her six biological children. She led movements of woman empowerment across the continent and never let any obstacles stop her path. She lived her life to the fullest and left us invaluable lessons about faith, hard work, compassion, and courage.
8. You are undoubtedly busy, how do you take care of yourself and maintain good mental health?
I try to cycle twice a week and leave time in my day for meditation and prayer. I find that spending time with family and taking an interest in those around me leaves me energized. I love spending time with my children and their friends. I’m the mom who kicks the soccer ball around the yard.
9. How should women support other women in their organizations?
By unapologetically bringing our authentic selves to work every day. We are inspiring other women to do the same. By continuing to stretch ourselves, reaching for the stars, and lifting others as we rise, women in the workplace will continue to rise.
To get in touch with Thakane, please visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/thakane-setsabi-mushonga-2614a724/ or https://www.oldmutual.co.za/personal/.
