Women in Business Series: Logamal Ramiah
Logamal Ramiah is the Group Chief Financial Officer at Optimi Learning, an organisation providing accessible learning solutions for individuals, corporates and the public sector. Logamal encourages women to be courageous and step forward in order to make a difference.
Are you satisfied with South Africa’s efforts in regards to empowering and promoting women in business?
I have seen a concerted effort put into empowering women in business. I do believe South Africa still has a lot to do in this regard compared to international peers. One of the biggest obstacles is overcoming the overachiever within one self and taking the plunge forward. Women need to step forward in the work environment and take the lead. Believe in yourself; believe that you can be the inspirational powerful woman you are.
What do you think are some of the most important skills and qualities that women need to have to excel in business today?
Skills – visionary, being bold and taking chances, tough negotiator, resilient, dedicated, high emotional intelligence, building your personal brand.
Qualities – inspiring others to be the best version of themselves, mentoring and coaching others, being a multiplier, delivering on your promise.
Are we seeing more girls and young women involved in STEM or traditionally male-dominated industries? What can we do to improve this?
Yes, I worked in the IT industry for many years and I noticed women are starting to take up senior positions in this industry that was typically male dominated. To improve this, we should have more women advocates showcasing their talents to children at schools, at career days, online etc. Having a role model is the first step to encouraging the change.
What has been one of your proudest moments in your current job?
When I started the lean-in forum at Netsurit. It was a forum that empowers women to lead from within, to be bold and step forward to make a difference in their lives, their families and communities. Women inspiring women to be the best version of themselves and find answers to community issues.
What would you say has been your biggest challenge in your work and how have you responded to it/overcome it?
It would be closing merger and acquisitions internationally. I researched a lot, reached out to peers to tap into their experience and consulted with advisors to bring it all together to successful conclusion. To close the deal, it meant expanding my knowledge of how business works in America which included understanding the cultural differences between the businesses and finding common ground.
What advice can you give young women who are now entering the workplace?
Believe in your ability, work hard and never give up. All your goals will be achieved by taking that first step towards them.
What are some of the most important skills young people need to navigate the current reality and a post-COVID future?
I have seen many free resources (online courses, tutoring, books, webinars, etc.) being offered during this time, young people should use this time to upskill themselves. Skills required to navigate this time would be critical thinking, technical skills, resilience and innovation.
Are you involved in any initiatives where you assist less fortunate women to improve their circumstances?
I mentor and coach women, children and entrepreneurs in getting to their goals and dreams.
