Sone' Joubert

My career accelerated because I was willing to work hard, stay consistent, and step into opportunities even when they felt uncomfortable. I started in a junior scheduling role with limited responsibility, but I always pushed myself to grow. When opportunities appeared — even intimidating ones — I took them.

I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who believed in me before I believed in myself. Eddie Landsberg challenged me early in my project management career, giving me high‑visibility projects that helped me grow and earn promotions. Later, Schalk Lotz encouraged me to pursue leadership and often gave me opportunities to lead his team. Their belief in me taught me the importance of backing yourself, even when you doubt your own readiness.

The most impactful advice didn’t come in words — it came through the actions of my mentors. Eddie Landsberg pushed me into challenging projects that stretched my abilities and built my confidence. Schalk Lotz consistently encouraged my leadership potential and created space for me to practice it. They taught me that others often see your strengths before you do, and that having someone who believes in you can change the trajectory of your career.

Put in the work, stay consistent, and take opportunities even when they scare you. Growth happens in discomfort. Many times, I didn’t think I was ready for the next step, but others saw my potential — and I learned to trust that. Ask questions, seek help, and believe in your ability to learn what you don’t yet know.

Leadership has allowed me to support and grow others, which is deeply fulfilling. Seeing people I’ve mentored succeed — whether through promotions or major project wins — is one of the most rewarding parts of my career.

After relocating to the United States, I’ve had to rebuild my network and navigate a new job market. One challenge has been that many engineering leadership roles here prioritize hands‑on coding, while my strengths lie in people leadership, delivery, and organizational alignment.

My focus now is on connecting with the right people and finding opportunities where leadership, strategy, and team development are valued as much as technical depth. I’m building my U.S. network from the ground up, often through connections from South Africa, and I’m confident that the right role will align with my strengths in building high‑performing teams.

Acts of service are central to who I am. I love developing people, helping them grow, and creating environments where they can succeed. My leadership philosophy is rooted in empowerment — stepping aside so my team can bring forward solutions while I support and guide them.

Outside of work, giving back is equally important. My ongoing support of SOS Children’s Villages reminds me that leadership and impact extend far beyond the workplace.