Koo Govender is the Group CEO of VWV Group (Pty) Ltd. VWV is a global brand experience agency, which specialises in creating and igniting experiences that change perceptions and inspire action. They were the company behind the 2010 Fifa World Cup opening and closing ceremonies and the MTV Africa Video Music Awards. Koo is set to shake up brand experience on the continent.
My Definition Of Success | Initially I thought that success meant having a good career, a family and wearing name brand clothes and then I realized that some of the things that I wanted meant nothing. Success means total happiness and significance in your professional life, as well as your personal life.
I Am Driven By | I’m driven by passion for life, for people and the empowerment of women.
My Highlights | I am most proud of having started the Phakama Womens Academy initiative, being the first female CEO at VWV Group and having started my own family; having a husband and children – who are my most honest critics.
A Key Talent | Passion is definitely the first one. It is has been critical to my success because it has allowed me to discover other strengths that I was not aware that I had. I also honed my determination and belief in other people, which is important because no man is an island in life and in any business.
Persistence and determination are also two values that work hand in hand and reap the greatest rewards, and once you have that you also need to have confidence, not only in yourself – but in that you will succeed.
Last but definitely not least is listening. The benefits of listening attentively are important in business as well as in your personal life. It will save you from making unnecessary mistakes; as well confers respect and trust in conversations.
Principles I Live By | Authenticity and action, the latter of which I believe is imperative in focusing on your goals.
Critical Skills I Develop | Never giving up on your dreams and always improving yourself/developing yourself. It is also important to always remember that failure is not final and that it is only an experience.
Performing At My Peak | Prioritise, prioritise and prioritise! And learn to keep a constantly positive state of mind. The mind is a powerful tool that works like any muscle – the more you exercise it, the stronger it will become and the more you’ll achieve.
The Meaning Of Life | Having a purpose and fulfilling that purpose daily. Leaving a legacy behind and casting a helping help to those that are less fortunate than you, or those who did not have the same opportunities as you may have been afforded.
The Best Advice I’ve Received | This was not personally said to me, but it resonates with the principles that I stand for. “Before you find out who you are, you have to figure out who you aren’t.” – Iyanla Vanzant You have to stand for something – always, and setting goals is a sure way to stay true to yourself, in any situation that you face.
On Inspiring Others | Always employ people who are “better” than you, surround yourself with strong people, be honest about your vision and ask for help when you need it. Mutual respect and being true to your word are two things that are fundamental to working with other people. Also, share your vision with the people who you work with so that they can help you achieve it.
