“My job is unpredictable, and keeps me on my toes”, says Lesego Selokela, Campus Manager of Innovation Africa @UP, who tells Tukkievaria about her career and the importance of celebrating Women's Day.

Where did you work prior to joining UP?

My early school years started at Mmangolwane Primary School. I then attended high school at Mamelodi High School where I matriculated and went on to study for my Diploma in Agriculture: Mixed Farming, B-Tech in Crop Production and Master’s in Crop Production at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria. Prior to joining UP I was working for the Agricultural Research Council (VOP) in Roodeplaat as a Research Technician.

Why is Women's Day important?

It is important because it is a day where each and every woman in South Africa gets an opportunity to reflect, and celebrate her strength and resilience in contributing to society. Also, it is a day to pay tribute to the generations of women whose struggles laid the foundations for the progress in empowering other women and achieving gender equality. Personally, for me it is a day to appreciate and uphold all my achievements.

What challenges do you experience as a woman in your field?

The agricultural and research field is a challenge before you even throw gender differences into the mix! Being a woman working in a male-dominated field is tricky, with societal expectations on how women need to behave, talk, lead etc putting unnecessary pressure on women. I am assertive, and for the longest time I would modify my behavior just to fit in a little more and to not come across as being forward or disrespectful. There are also times where I find myself having to overcompensate, simply because of my gender, and that makes one’s work-life balance very difficult. I am very lucky and blessed because I have an understanding and supportive husband who is a great help, especially when work pressures arise. What also helps is self-care; taking time out and prioritising “me - time”. My family really understands how important and good that is for me. 

How did you choose an agricultural career over being a VET?

To be honest, I did not choose the agricultural field, I always say it chose me. I chose Journalism when I applied at TUT. My application was accepted and then I had to write an aptitude test. After the aptitude test I was informed that with my results the course best suited for me was Agriculture or Wildlife Management. A Wildlife Management was full, that is how I landed up in Agriculture.  

What does your day-to-day role entail?

My day-to-day role entails the coordination and management of animals, employees, research trials and infrastructure as well as rendering support to academic staff and students at the Innovation Africa @UP Campus (formerly known as the Experimental Farm).

What would you like to improve in your section/department and why?

Firstly, I would like to see increased employee morale, which I strongly believe is critical for better productivity and overall success of the company.  I would love to see Innovation Africa @UP transform into a world-class research institute where everyone that is involved and associated with it is proud.

What do you enjoy most about your job and why?

My job is unpredictable, and keeps me on my toes. You never know which ball will come rolling with each new day, and because I enjoy a good challenge and solving problems, that makes it enjoyable. And I get fulfilled by every resolution I get to make, no matter how big or small. 

What is your least favourite part of the job?

Having to deal with people that have no patience or understanding at all really irks me. I really don’t enjoy admin tasks or sitting in meetings, especially long ones.

What do you do in your free time?

I enjoy taking walks and listening to music that really relaxes me. I also like exercising, reading, going out, movies and spending time with family. 

What is your advice to colleagues about the challenges encountered in the workplace?

Look at every challenge you face in the workplace as an opportunity to come up with solutions, and as a learning experience to help you to grow.

What are your personal likes and dislikes?

I dislike dishonesty, laziness and an entitlement mentality. I really like being outdoors and in nature and admire people that work hard regardless of their background.

Quick quiz:

Sport: Soccer

Food: Traditional, Italian and home-cooked food

Movies: I am sucker for love and romantic movies, especially the ones that involve scenes that make me cry.

Actors: Presley Chweneyagae, Vusi Kunene, Vatiswa Ndara, Nomzamo Mbatha, Warren Masemola, Busi Lurayi, Julia Roberts, Taraj P Johnson, Jack Nicholson, Meryl Streep, Morgan Freeman, Samuel L Jackson, & Regina Hall.

Musician: Masego, Mlindo The Vocalist, Kwesta, The Soil, Ami Faku, Berita, Yallunder, Nomfundo Moh, Msaki, Samthing Soweto,Tom Misch, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, Solange, Erykah Badu, Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill. H.E.R, James Authur, Shawn Mendes.

All-time hero: My uncle and my husband. They both have played amazing and significant roles in helping me get to where I am today.