IWD 2025 - an interview with: Palesa Lorraine Klaasen

Tell us a little about your career journey leading to where you are now.

With little over 10 years in the hospitality industry, my journey has been one of passion, persistence, and evolution. I started in the culinary world with a deep love for crafting flavors and creating experiences through food. Over time, my career expanded beyond the kitchen—I took on leadership roles, ventured into research and development, and worked on creating innovative food products for distribution. Now as a head chef based in Riyadh Saudi Arabia, I’ve had the privilege of leading teams, shaping menus, and driving business growth. As I look toward a future in development and innovation, I see my career as a constant evolution, fueled by curiosity and a commitment to excellence.  

What does the International Women’s Day slogan “accelerate action” mean for you?

It means recognizing the gaps—in leadership, in opportunities, in representation—and actively working to close them. In my industry, that could mean championing new talent, ensuring workplaces foster diversity, or creating innovative products that cater to a wider audience. It’s about refusing to accept the status quo and instead driving meaningful progress, not just for myself, but for those who come after me. Change happens when we take deliberate steps forward, no matter how big or small.  

How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?

It’s absolutely crucial. The culinary world, like many industries, can be tough, and having a strong network of women supporting each other makes all the difference. I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible mentors (women), and I make it a priority to pass that forward—whether it’s by sharing knowledge, creating opportunities, or simply reminding other women that they are capable of achieving great things. Lifting each other up isn’t just about words; it’s about action, advocacy, and making sure no one is left behind.  

How important is diversity across senior leadership teams?

It’s a business necessity. A diverse leadership team brings different perspectives, ideas, and problem-solving approaches, leading to more innovation and better decision-making. In the food and hospitality industry, understanding different cultures, tastes, and consumer behaviors is key, and diversity at the top ensures that we’re truly meeting the needs of a broad audience. More importantly, representation at leadership levels paves the way for future generations, showing them that success isn’t limited by gender, background, or circumstance.  

Senior leadership: 26%, C-suite: 19%, 1 in 4: Chief-level. These are the percentages and numbers of female leaders in our industry. What do these numbers represent to you?

These numbers tell me that while we’ve made progress, there’s still work to be done. Women are proving their leadership capabilities every day, yet systemic barriers still exist. To me, these figures highlight the need for continued advocacy, mentorship, and structural changes to ensure more women can step into senior roles—without having to work twice as hard to prove themselves.  

As a successful leader, how do you think (business) leaders can accelerate action toward closing the gender gap and ensuring equal opportunities in the workplace?

Leaders need to be intentional about change. This means creating clear pathways for women to advance, ensuring pay equity, and actively challenging biases in hiring and promotion. It also means fostering work environments where women feel heard, valued, and supported—not just as employees, but as leaders in the making. Providing mentorship, leadership training, and flexible work policies can go a long way in bridging the gender gap.  

Can you share your top tips for entrepreneurial/managerial/leadership success?

• Lead with empathy – People work best when they feel seen and valued.
• Never stop learning – Growth comes from staying curious and open to new ideas.
• Build strong teams – Success is never a solo effort; surround yourself with the right people.
• Take risks – Some of the best opportunities come from stepping outside your comfort zone.

What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a woman thinking of starting a career at leadership level?

Believe that you belong at the table. It’s easy to question whether you’re ready or qualified, but confidence is key. Seek mentors, build your skills, and step into leadership with conviction. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself—your voice and perspective matter.  

Have there been any role models through your life (work or professional) who have helped shape you as a leader?

Absolutely. I’ve been influenced by incredible mentors: (Veronica Canha-Hibbert, Jaymee-lee young, Ziyaad Brown, Jacques Swart, Nina Saptoe, Lufuno Sinthumule, Sydney Baulisi, Louis-deien Pienaar and Eddie Makuwaza) who showed me what true leadership looks like—leaders who led with integrity, resilience, and a genuine passion for their craft. I’ve also drawn inspiration from women who paved the way in male-dominated industries, proving that success isn’t limited by gender. Their stories have fueled my own journey, reminding me that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and lead with purpose.