[Interview] Gerry Elsdon, South African Media Personailty, Social Activist and CEO
Gerry Elsdon is South African Media Personality and Social Activist. She is also CEO of the Gerry Elsdon (Pty) Ltd, Gerri E Sustainability and the Gerri E Signature Collection. She was one of the judges of the recently held Fair Lady Women of the Future Awards in Johannesburg 2015, South Africa.
Her interview with Africa Business Communities:
Would you introduce Gerry Elsdon (Pty) Ltd and how it got started?
During my more than 20 years in the entertainment industry in South Africa, I realized that I could manage my own media career better in-house than just through an agency, and it is also during this time that I realized my passion for Humanitarian work.
With nothing more than street smarts and my learnings from those who have been in my various areas of interest before me, I forged a path for myself. With entertainment, I knew what would interest me and built ideas around it. With creating CSI programs, my work with the IFRC and the WHO prepared me well to assist companies to understand the environments their workers came from. My fashion label was built on my own desire to just be different; it’s a niche label for women looking for that one garment that sets them apart from the rest.
Tell us about the FAIRLADY Women of the Future 2015 Awards please.
The ceremony was held on the 19th of August in Johannesburg. These awards are an opportunity for us to be introduced to some of those less traditional businesses successfully run by women. Through these awards we’ll meet women who stepped forward, followed their hearts, listened to the market and created businesses where there were none previously.
What motivated this move and what does it hope to achieve in South Africa?
The abilities of South African Women in business have long been underestimated. This is an opportunity to showcase niche businesses, to applaud them for their efforts and to encourage other female entrepreneurs to go courageously where no one has gone before – into the marketplace of small business where we see new jobs being created and our economy boosted.
Do you think women entrepreneurs typically have a harder time accessing loans through traditional bank channels?
Here’s what I know: South Africans are hard up for cash and according to the World Bank is the number one country for people needing loans. I would imagine that men look for traditional finance for traditional businesses, making them easier to assess than businesses that are more niche or different … which are the types of businesses women are generally allured by.
What can be done by entrepreneurs and government to stimulate the business environment in South Africa?
Businesses need to continue to innovate so there will always be a need for the products they sell. They must listen to the market and understand the deliverables and government needs to create growth strategies that include the entrepreneur. Every business in the world was started by a few creative bold individuals who were once called entrepreneurs. We need to have the same self-belief that we can grow. Government needs to encourage and develop this type of thinking.
What expectations do you have for the South African economy in the second half of 2015?
I would prefer not to answer this because the analysts don’t seem very positive. I however believe that one should just put your head done and get the job done. Remain positive for yourself and others and create an environment for growth where you are. It’s time to become introspective.
Africa Business Communities is conducting a series of interviews with CEO's and high-end professionals in Africa. Are you interested in an interview? Please send an e-mail to Andrea Ayemoba: andrea@africabusinesscommunities.com