Meet Kim Robertson, the proud owner of Morningside’s Hussar Grill. In the late 60s in Rustenburg, South Africa, Kim’s early life was characterized by constant movement due to her father’s involvement in the mining industry, instilling remarkable adaptability and resilience. 

After completing her education at Springs Convent in the 1980s, Kim embarked on her professional journey as a Service Ambassador at the renowned “Yellowstone Spur” Steak Ranch. This experience ignited a passion for the world of hospitality within her. Her pursuit of this passion led her to obtain a Diploma in commercial catering from Wit’s Hotel School, and she spent five impactful years climbing the managerial ladder at various Spur Steak Ranch restaurants, including well-known establishments like Oklahoma Spur, Louisiana Spur, Golden Arrow Spur, and Silver Pine Spur. 

Kim’s journey led her to Durban, where she played a crucial role in establishing the Spur Group’s Central Distribution network. Her dedication and resourcefulness shone as she navigated the challenges of this endeavour. Transitioning into finance, Kim earned a Diploma in Financial Management and became a partner in the successful digital printing company Limestone Advertising. 

Amidst her professional achievements, Kim recognized the importance of family and took a sabbatical to prioritize her loved ones. She later embraced business ownership again, becoming a shareholder in a family-oriented pizza restaurant.

Kim’s expertise and reputation caught the attention of the late CEO of Spur Corp, who entrusted her with the management and transformation of Hussar Grill at Morningside Shopping Centre. Over the course of seven years, Kim’s leadership and dedication led to remarkable growth and improvement.

Kim’s story is a testament to her enduring endurance, unwavering resilience, and determination. With the right mindset and a steadfast support system, she conquered challenges and achieved prosperity, inspiring all.

We posed some questions to this inspiring woman. Here’s what she had to share:

1. What inspired you to pursue your career, and how have your experiences as a woman shaped your professional career? 
   
   The thought of pursuing a conventional university education did not resonate with me, so I looked for alternate paths. During this search, I stumbled upon the captivating world of the hospitality industry. Little did I know that this choice would open my eyes to a complex and multi-faceted world.

2. What are some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced throughout your career, and how did you overcome them? 
   
   As I delved deeper into the industry, I discovered my love for the financial and business side of things. This newfound passion allowed me to visualize the entire picture of my business, giving me the control and ability to plot and plan for success. The intricate dance between numbers and strategy enthralled me, making this industry a perfect fit.

3. In a world where gender equality is still a work in progress, how do you advocate for equal opportunities and representation for women in your workplace? 
   
   I was blessed with the gift of motherhood much later in life. Suddenly, my priorities shifted, and the challenges of balancing work and family responsibilities became evident. Sacrifices had to be made, and I chose to focus on what was best for my family. In doing so, I sought out opportunities that provided me with the flexibility to be present as a mother while still pursuing my career.

4. What strategies do you employ to maintain a healthy work-life balance and take care of your well-being amidst professional demands? 
   
   These experiences taught me an invaluable lesson: to focus on myself and take responsibility for my success. I set clear boundaries, understanding that my duty was to define and maintain the delicate balance between my personal and professional life. Daily exercise became a priority, with invigorating walks and weekly challenges on my gaming platform. I created to-do lists and blocked out distractions at work to stay focused and efficient. Above all, I drew a line, ensuring that work did not encroach upon my home life.

5. Mentorship plays a vital role in career growth. Have you had a mentor who influenced your journey, and how has their guidance impacted your professional development? 
   
   Despite lacking a formal mentor on my journey, I sought inspiration from within. My drive to promote women’s employment in the industry led me to actively monitor and offer peer support, creating a network of powerful individuals striving for success. Additionally, I invested time in learning about diverse cultures, races, religions, and backgrounds, allowing me to understand better and cater to the needs of my staff.

6. Women have often been underrepresented in leadership positions. How do you navigate the path to leadership and inspire other women to do the same? 
   
   Continual education and self-improvement were always on my radar. I immersed myself in ongoing reading and stayed informed through extensive online research; monthly training days further enhanced the skills of my existing team while providing a platform for new staff to learn and grow alongside their colleagues. 

7. Workplaces are evolving, diversity and inclusion are gaining importance. How do you contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment?
   
   Education, I discovered, did not solely mean a traditional university degree. It could be attained through attending training classes, workshops, or certifications. I realized the importance of pursuing a career that offered financial stability and allowed me to be my own boss. This way, I could balance being a mother and a businesswoman, empowering others to do the same.

8. Upskilling and continuous learning are essential in a dynamic job market. What steps do you take to stay relevant and enhance your skills in your field? 
   
   In conclusion, my journey in the hospitality industry was filled with twists and turns, challenges, and triumphs. Along the way, I learned the value of self-reflection, setting boundaries, and constantly seeking personal growth. Although my path may have been unconventional, I would not have it any other way. With a mind full of knowledge and a heart filled with passion, I am ready to face whatever lies ahead, embracing the opportunities that come my way.

9. As we celebrate Women’s Month, what advice would you give young women starting their careers or aspiring to make a difference in their respective fields? 
   
   In conclusion, my journey in the hospitality industry was filled with twists and turns, challenges, and triumphs. Along the way, I learned the value of self-reflection, setting boundaries, and constantly seeking personal growth. Although my path may have been unconventional, I would not have it any other way. With a mind full of knowledge and a heart filled with passion, I am ready to face whatever lies ahead, embracing the opportunities that come my way.

Thank you for being an essential part of  “My” Morningside Shopping Centre. Your dedication and passion inspire us every day.