IWD 2025 - an interview with: Karin van Zyl

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

My career began as an Occupational Therapist in South Africa, but my journey took an unexpected turn when I transitioned into direct selling. I quickly moved up the ranks, becoming a manager and ultimately a distributor. Then, at the age of 38, I decided to go backpacking through Europe—a bold move that set the stage for my next adventure.

Attending a motivational seminar by Tony Robbins proved to be a defining moment. He offered me the role of General Manager at his resort in Fiji, and from there, my path in luxury hospitality was set. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in breathtaking locations such as Belize, Botswana, India, Thailand, and now the Maldives.

With more than three decades in hospitality, I’ve embraced roles that span operational management, strategic planning, and team development. I hold a degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Pretoria and have continuously invested in professional development, earning certifications as a PADI Course Director, Emergency First Response Instructor Trainer, DAN Instructor Trainer, and a Digital Marketing Professional Diploma from DMI in the UK in 2020.

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

For me, it’s about actively recruiting and empowering women in the workplace, ensuring equal growth opportunities. My leadership style is rooted in the motto “bring it on,” which aligns with the spirit of accelerating action. I approach leadership fearlessly, engaging with guests, hosts, communities, agents, and suppliers. It’s about being visible, learning from those around me, and fostering a hands-on, inclusive leadership environment that values the expertise of every individual.

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

I firmly believe in equality in the workplace—positions should be earned based on talent and merit, not gender. However, I recognize the unique challenges women face in leadership, from breaking persistent biases to balancing work-life expectations.

Throughout my career, I have supported and mentored talented women, helping them navigate these challenges and grow. Being a woman in hospitality comes with advantages, particularly in fostering strong relationships and communication due to heightened emotional intelligence. My collaborative leadership style has contributed to building positive organizational cultures.

How important is diversity across senior leadership teams?

Diversity ensures that all voices are heard, bringing a broader range of perspectives and solutions to the table.

Senior leadership: 26%, C-suite: 19%, 1 in 4 Chief-level. What do these numbers represent to you?

Leadership isn’t built overnight. While these numbers highlight progress, they also reflect women's challenges, particularly when taking time off for family responsibilities. Returning to the workforce after a career gap can be a disadvantage, but it shouldn’t be a barrier. We need to create pathways for reintegration and growth.

As a successful leader, how can business leaders accelerate action toward closing the gender gap and ensuring equal opportunities?

I believe in fairness—positions should be awarded based on ability, not gender or age. Equal opportunities must be available to all, ensuring the best person for the role gets it.

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

Never stop learning. Resilience and self-belief are essential in a dynamic and competitive industry where setbacks are inevitable.

For young women aspiring to leadership roles, it’s important to see challenges as opportunities for growth. Believe in your abilities and unique strengths, even when facing scepticism or gender biases. Use these as fuel to push forward.

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

Networking has been vital to my career. Building meaningful relationships with mentors and peers provides invaluable guidance and support. Seek out mentors, cultivate an inspiring professional network, and commit to lifelong learning.

Assert yourself and embrace your unique strengths. Women bring diverse perspectives to leadership, which is an asset. Lead authentically, with confidence, knowing that your journey can inspire others. Resilience, a strong support system, continuous learning, and staying true to yourself will pave the way for success.

Have there been any role models throughout your life who helped shape you as a leader?

Absolutely. Early in my career, my biggest competitor became my mentor. Later, during my tenure with Aman, Christina Deeny and John Reed played significant roles in my  development. To this day, I still reach out to them for guidance. Their wisdom and support have been invaluable on my leadership journey.