"True progress isn't just about honouring the past, it's also about uplifting those who continue to build the future, one act of courage, compassion and leadership at a time," Says Badat.

Her career history with Crookes Brothers Limited (CBL) — of which Crocworld is a subsidiary — has seen her selected for its Diamonds 2.0 Development Programme, says the centre.

This programme aims to identify ndividuals within the CBL organisation with the potential to gain further skills through intensive training. For Badat, the first female Centre Manager, who has quickly worked her way up the CBL ladder, this is a significant stepping stone in her career, says the centre.

"As a woman navigating both the tourism and agricultural industry, these fields demand grit, passion and perseverance. Women's Month really resonates deeply with me as it's a powerful time of reflection and celebration. It invites us to look back at the trailblazers, those courageous women who challenged limitations, broke down barriers and carved a path for future generations," says Badat.

Crocworld Women Share Words of Advice

Committed to uplifting the women around her, Badat says it's important to recognise the women who 'walk beside us every day,' "These are the mothers who nurture us, the daughters who inspire us, the sisters and friends who support us, the colleagues who collaborate with us, the leaders who guide us and the mentors who believe in our potential even when we doubt ourselves."

This aligns with CBL's ethos: growing people. A concept Susan aims to assist growing women within the tourism and agricultural sectors. Some of the women who are learning and growing at Crocworld have shared their views on Women's Month and what it means to succeed.

Nozipho Dlamini: Tourism Assistant — Dlamini has been working at Crocworld for the past eight years, and is currently studying Business Management with a focus on Occupational Health and Safety. Commenting on the importance of Women's Month, she says, "This is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made, to become an advocate for change and to celebrate the courage and determination of women who play an extraordinary role in their communities."

Doris Mbhele: Customer Service — For the past 16 years, Doris has been a fixture at Crocworld where she works in administrative roles. She aims to continue to improve herself, having studied Adult Basic Education and Training through UNISA and Customer Service with Crookes Brothers Limited. Her advice to other women is to be patient when seeking to fulfil their dreams. "The storm will come with force, but it will soon pass."

Slindile Zikalala: Waitress — Currently studying Financial Management, Slindile has been working as a waitress at Crocworld restaurant, Fish Eagle Café for three years. She says focus, clear goals and surrounding yourself with supportive people are key to success. "Women's Month is about recognising our achievements and challenges, while empowering each other.”

Luschia Mkhize: Assistant Chef Fish Eagle Café — For the past 7 years, Luschia has been working at Fish Eagle Café, helping prepare the meals, while also being involved in record-keeping and archives at Crocworld. Her advice to other women is, "Keep trying, even when it seems impossible. Focus on ways you can develop your skills and keep soldiering on."

For more information, visit www.crocworld.co.za. You can also follow Crocworld Conservation Centre on Facebook, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor