Obtaining a PhD in Management Studies (Human Resources) while working in the corporate world has been the greatest accomplishment for Dr Londeka Xulu.
Hailing from Kranskop Village in KwaZulu-Natal, Xulu said achieving a PhD holds immense significance for herself and the village she comes from.
‘My family and entire village are proud and motivated. In order to give back to my community, I plan to assist Grade 12 learners and university graduates with their career plans. I firmly believe that this qualification will greatly support me in achieving those goals,’ she said.
Currently holding the position of Senior Human Resources Specialist at one of the major banks, Xulu reveals that she was the first member of her family to attend university. Motivated by her background, she was driven to strive for academic success and harboured a desire to earn a PhD.
‘The interest to pursue this qualification grew even stronger while working in the corporate sector. I wanted to conduct research that would be beneficial in my field. My plan is to continue growing and advancing within the corporate sector, with the belief that this qualification will assist me. I also aspire to lecture part-time, and my larger goal is to venture into consulting within the next five years,’ she said.
During her academic journey, Xulu faced significant challenges, such as the heart-breaking loss of her mother which posed a threat to her scholarly pursuits. Grateful for the guidance she received from her mentor, Professor Brijball Parumasur, an esteemed industrial psychologist at UKZN, Xulu admits that without her unwavering support, she might have given up on her studies.
Her research, titled: The Importance of Talent Management in Changing the Retail Business Banking Work Environment focused on analysing the influence of technology, particularly among millennials, and critical skills on talent management practices within the Retail Banking Business (RBB) sector.
‘The study also explored the challenges faced by HR in terms of talent management in the 21st century and their readiness for change within the RBB,’ she said.
Xulu says her research topic has significantly contributed to her personal growth and deepened her knowledge and expertise in human resources within the banking sector.
Words: Samukelisiwe Cele
Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal