Join us as we celebrate some of the incredible women who make up Vodacom's workforce. Today we find out more about Tsholo Peeters, a Product Manager in CBU Commercial Product and Services.
What did you originally study, and how did you come to be at Vodacom?
I hold a Diploma in Computer Systems Engineering, and a BTech in Information Systems and Information Technology. I have been in the telecommunications industry for some time, prominently in more technical roles at first and after acquiring my Btech I repositioned in the commercial business sector.
What kind of work do you do at Vodacom?
I am a Product Manager in CBU Commercial Product and Services. I create and manage products for Mobile Broadband Data.
What’s your favourite way to de-stress outside of the office?
I like being an advocate for personal growth, both physically and mentally. You will either find me doing some home workouts, outdoor fitness, attending networking events/seminars, creating social-media content, especially Tik-Toks or spending time with my family.
Share one of your most significant achievements – professionally, personally or both.
Firstly, it’s a privilege to be recognised as one Superlative Woman here at Vodacom.
Finding my voice at my weakest point - not only did fitness become my life, but it has been a vehicle to impact others, transform, empower and give back to the community. It is the same voice and vehicle that I am driving my current achievement as a Mrs South Africa finalist!
Being in the digital technology evolution since the inception of 3G/GPRS to 4G and now evolving to 5G is one of my proudest working achievements. We are continuously launching data products that are in real demand in society. This was clearly visible during covid. Data has become a basic need and we serve our community with pride.
What or who inspires you most?
Growth and new challenges. I just love being in a better position every single day.
Who is your role model & why?
I draw strength from different icons. Those who are not scared to take on the world, not afraid to fail, the innovators, those who never forget their communities and the ones who always stand for those who are vulnerable.
What does Women’s Month mean to you?
An annual reminder for women to regain their power and believe in themselves again. Also, to continuously mentor our future generation to shatter ceilings, never incarcerate themselves and never be scared to raise their voices.
What are the biggest barriers for South African women in general?
Many women in South Africa are still discriminated against and have to work extra hard to be visible. We have to take back our power, there is no need to await validation, we should be present and sit in front, we should equip ourselves with knowledge so as to challenge better and have our voice heard at the top.
Do you feel empowered as a woman at Vodacom? How does Vodacom empower you and other women in the organisation?
I don’t think there is a company I have worked for that reignited women like here at Vodacom. Being given the freedom to run women's programmes that equip women to be better versions of themselves is just a form of empowerment that the company offers. After completing the “Women in Leadership” programme I believe I have grown by applying those skills and principles I learned in my role as a Product Manager and in my everyday life. It has also given me the confidence to engage with people I never dared to approach previously, and this has furthered my skills as a woman leader for other females.
Do you think women have ample opportunity to take leadership roles in business and society?
Women are visionaries, we just need to find the courage and confidence to take on those opportunities. We need to stop seeking validation and believe that we are capable. I am on this journey and it is in this journey that I keep evolving and constantly pushing myself to grab those opportunities. No one is going to do it for us.
What advice would you give other women in business, or those aspiring to be?
Don’t be afraid to take risks, you can either learn or excel. Equip yourself with resources and skills that mould you into the person you wish to become in the future, when that opportunity comes you will be ready. #StayWoke
