Ayanda Mzondeki, an HR specialist and founder of a multinational corporation, provides information on her professional trajectory and the factors that led her to develop ground-breaking solutions to human capital gaps in the industry.
Mzondeki, an entrepreneur committed to lifelong learning and professional empowerment, utilises technology to assist other entrepreneurs in their pursuit of success.
She describes her experience in detail, saying that it started when she worked for an HR firm and found that several aspects of the company didn't sit well with her. It was this discontent that led her to establish Liyema Consulting Group 14 years ago, with the help of her late friend.
Despite working in an industry that is still predominantly male-dominated, she says several people and factors have kept her motivated on her journey, but at the top of her mind are her colleagues at Liyema.
The South African firm, provides advanced staffing solutions to clients across Africa, Europe, and the UAE, leveraging technology.
What sparked your interest in starting your company, and how has your journey been so far?
I’ve always had an innate desire to change what I don’t like. I’m not one to just complain—I seek solutions. If I encounter a problem, I either change myself or find someone who can help. In this case, I realised that I genuinely love the human capital industry. I believed that by starting my own company, I could build a business that allows me to reimagine what this industry should be like. So far, the journey has been challenging but incredibly rewarding, as we’ve grown and made a real impact in the HR space.
What are some of the challenges you encountered along the way, and how did you overcome them?
One of the significant challenges has been navigating a business world that is still predominantly male-dominated. There are systemic barriers that women often have to overcome, such as biases and limited access to opportunities. Interestingly, my gender-neutral name has occasionally allowed me to bypass some initial biases, and in our industry, merit usually speaks for itself. However, the surprise when people realise I’m a woman can be quite funny.
What are some essential things you hope people know about the Human Capital (HR) space?
In the human capital space, it’s important for people to understand that HR is much more than just hiring and compliance—it’s about creating a culture where people can truly thrive. At Liyema, we believe that people are the most valuable asset of any organisation. By prioritising their growth, well-being, and engagement, companies can unlock their full potential. Human capital should be seen as a strategic partner in driving business success, ensuring that employees are not only aligned with the company’s goals but also feel valued and empowered in their roles.
How can you advise those in the Human Capital (HR) space to also thrive?
To thrive in the human capital space, adaptability and forward-thinking are key. Here are a few strategies that I personally embrace and recommend:
1. Embrace Continuous Learning: The HR landscape is constantly evolving. Stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices to stay ahead of the curve.
2. Prioritise Employee Experience: Focus on creating a positive, engaging work environment where employees feel valued and supported. This not only boosts morale but also enhances overall performance.
3. Leverage Data and Technology: Embrace technology to streamline HR processes, from recruitment to employee engagement.
4. Cultivate Strong Relationships: Build and maintain strong connections with employees, management, and external stakeholders. Effective communication and trust are key to navigating challenges and driving success.
5. Be a Strategic Partner: Position HR as a vital part of the business strategy. Align HR initiatives with the company’s goals to demonstrate the value of human capital in achieving long-term success.
How do you suggest people leverage their experience to realise their unique vision?
Leveraging your experience to realise your unique vision is crucial. Here’s how I suggest doing it:
1. Reflect on Your Journey: Take time to reflect on your past experiences, both successes and challenges. Identify the skills, knowledge, and insights you’ve gained and consider how they align with your vision.
2. Connect the dots: Look for patterns and connections between your experiences and your vision. Use these insights to shape a clear, actionable plan that bridges your past with your future goals.
3. Build on Strengths: Focus on the strengths you’ve developed through your experience. Leverage these to create a solid foundation for your vision and use them to differentiate yourself in your field.
4. Learn from Setbacks: Embrace the lessons from any setbacks or failures you’ve encountered. These experiences can provide valuable insights and help you refine your approach.
When you combine your experience with these strategies, you can turn your unique vision into reality and make a lasting impact.
Who would you attribute your success to?
My success is the result of many influences and support systems throughout my journey. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who provided invaluable guidance, wisdom, and support, helping me navigate challenges and grow both personally and professionally. Alongside them, a supportive network of friends, family, and colleagues has been instrumental. Their encouragement, belief in my abilities, and constructive feedback have played a significant role in shaping my path.
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