Yvette Roberts, Managing Director at Pro-Print, reflects on her unexpected entry into the print industry, the influence of her father on her career, and the importance of creating equal opportunities for women. In this Change 1 Woman (C1W) interview for Women’s Month, Roberts discusses the barriers women still face in technical roles, what empowerment means to her, and the advice she has for young women entering the industry.
Roberts did not initially plan a career in print. Already a qualified chef with several years of experience, she began working with her father at the family business on what was intended to be a six month trial. The experience quickly changed the direction of her career, introducing her to new challenges, opportunities to learn and a path she had not previously considered.
What inspired you to pursue your career, and what has kept you motivated?
My career in the print industry started as a short trial period working with my Dad at our family business. I’m still not quite sure whether I chose my career or whether it chose me, especially as I was already a qualified chef, with several years of experience behind me.
Those first six months gave me everything I had been looking for in a career. Every day brought something new to learn, opportunities for growth, and challenges that tested my ability to think on my feet and find solutions under pressure.
What began as a trial quickly became something much bigger. I started to see the possibilities of where I could go within the industry, and it opened up a world of opportunities I hadn’t initially imagined.
Looking back, I realise that sometimes we don’t necessarily find our path by planning every step. Sometimes, we simply step through a door that opens and discover that it leads somewhere we were meant to be.
What can companies and industry leaders do to better support women in the workplace?
Supporting women in the workplace, in every industry, not just ours, doesn’t necessarily require big or complicated changes. It starts with something much simpler: men and women treating one another with respect, understanding that we all have something valuable to offer, and recognising that every individual can contribute to the success of a business.
Each and every one of us has worked hard to build our knowledge, experience and expertise within our respective industries. Our contributions should be recognised based on our capabilities, not our gender.
Equal participation in every area of business should be a given, not a request, an exception or a gesture of goodwill.
Creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to contribute, grow and succeed benefits not only women, but the entire organisation.
What is one stereotype about women in your industry that you would like to see disappear?
Women are often not given the same opportunities to work on the technical side of our industry. It remains a predominantly male space, and this is an area I would genuinely like to see change.
Speaking specifically from my own experience, and from seeing this happen more times than I care to acknowledge, I know that women are more than capable of handling the technical aspects of our industry. The issue isn’t a lack of ability. It’s often a lack of opportunity, trust and access.
What does empowering women mean to you?
Believing in our own abilities means having the courage to become the person we aspire to be, without constantly questioning whether we belong.
We don’t need permission to take up space or pursue our dreams. Sometimes, belonging begins with believing that we deserve to be there.
Who has been the biggest influence or mentor in your career?
Without a doubt, my Dad.
His ability to share his knowledge and guide me without boundaries or limitations was one of the most rewarding and meaningful gifts I could ever receive. His wisdom, patience and unwavering support have shaped the person I am today.
What advice would you give to young women who want to follow a similar career path?
Show up every day. Work hard. Don’t doubt yourself. Believe that you can achieve what you set your mind to.
You determine your own success. The moment you allow someone else to determine your worth or your success, you give them power over your journey, and that can only lead to disappointment.
No one can believe in you more than you believe in yourself. Trust your abilities. Trust your journey. Keep showing up, even when you don’t see the results yet.
Roberts’ message to women in print
For Roberts, creating greater opportunities for women starts with recognising their abilities and giving them the trust and access needed to demonstrate what they can achieve. Her own career, which began unexpectedly through a short trial at her family’s business, demonstrates how opportunities can shape a professional journey.
She believes women should not have to ask for equal participation or prove that they belong before being given the chance to contribute. For young women entering the industry, her message is straightforward: work hard, believe in yourself and take responsibility for defining your own success.
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.
PRO-PRINT
www.proprint.co.za
