Heilet Grobler, Director of Uvo Communication, has built a career spanning more than 30 years in the printing and communications industry. During Women’s Month, Grobler spoke to Africa Print about her career journey, how her definition of success has evolved, the role companies can play in supporting women and why the perception of printing as a man’s industry needs to change.
Grobler entered the industry with an understanding of people, communication and how businesses can connect with different audiences. Her career eventually led her to establish CPD Communication Design and Print with two partners, after growing demand saw her taking responsibility for projects from content development through to the production of the final printed product. She reflects on her career and shares her advice for women looking to grow, lead and succeed.
What inspired you to pursue your career, and what has kept you motivated?
With my background in psychology, I always had a deep feeling for people and the way people communicate and react to each other. The knowledge I gained through my studies enabled me to assist companies to reach their target markets and communicate their messages in different forms to different segments of their markets.
It was always a strong point of mine to assist business people with their presentations and speeches.
Having more and more requests to oversee the entire process, from content development to printing the final product, encouraged me to start my own production facilities.
CPD Communication Design and Print was born with two other partners. I proudly took my position as one of the first women in what was then a male dominated environment.
How do you define success today, and has that definition changed over the years?
The meaning of success has changed quite a lot over the past 30 years. It is not that one definition is better than another. Society’s priorities and opportunities have shifted.
Thirty years ago, success was often measured by stability, status and possessions. A good job, a house, a car, marriage, children and financial security were seen as important indicators of success. Having a degree, a secure permanent job and staying with one company for many years was the norm.
Today, success is increasingly measured by choice, fulfilment and balance. This includes being financially secure, enjoying your work, having meaningful relationships, maintaining your wellbeing and having the freedom to live according to your own priorities.
Work life balance is increasingly valued, while changing careers or companies to grow is now the norm.
For one person today, success might mean becoming a CEO. For another, it might mean running a small business, travelling, having plenty of time with family or simply earning enough to live comfortably without work taking over their life.
What can companies and industry leaders do to better support women in the workplace?
Companies and industry leaders absolutely support women better today than they did 30 years ago. There is now a visible effort to create workplaces where opportunity, recognition and advancement are based on ability rather than gender.
However, there is still room for improvement when it comes to providing equal access to leadership opportunities, fair and transparent pay, mentorship and professional development.
Companies can also support women through flexible working arrangements, family friendly policies and a workplace culture that respects work life balance.
Most importantly, leaders should actively listen to women, address bias and discrimination, and ensure that women have a meaningful voice in decision making.
Ultimately, supporting women is not simply about meeting diversity targets. It is about creating an environment where women have the resources, confidence and opportunities to grow, lead and succeed.
What is one stereotype about women in your industry that you would like to see disappear?
One stereotype I would like to see disappear is the idea that the printing industry is a man’s world, particularly when it comes to technical or leadership roles.
Women are just as capable of understanding the technical side of the industry, making important decisions and leading successful teams.
Your ability should define your role and opportunities, not your gender.
If you could inspire every woman reading this interview with one message, what would it be?
My message to other women in the industry, and this matters everywhere, is to believe in your abilities and never underestimate the value you bring to the table.
Do not be afraid to speak up, take on new challenges and step into spaces where you may not always see other women.
You do not have to fit someone else’s definition of success. Create your own, back yourself and keep growing.
Pray and be thankful for your blessings, and reach out a hand to be a sister to others.
Africa Print are proud media partners of the Women in Print series hosted by Printing SA this month.
C1W Initiative
Change 1 Woman (C1W) aims to empower women in the branding, print and signage industries. As part of this initiative, Africa Print would like to spotlight women-focused content like this piece. If you have any trend/business articles related to the signage, branding and printing industries, please email content to: info@c1w.co.za. Follow C1W on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.
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