Christina Bekker | “20 Women, 20 Stories” Women’s Portrait Campaign Experience

Where are you from, and where have you currently settled?

From Klerksdorp and settled in Cape Town

3 words that your friends would use to describe you?

Present, Kind, Vivacious

What is your big, audacious dream? (that sometimes keeps you awake at night) If you are already living it, please share.

My audacious dream is to travel the world and experience diverse cultures and landscapes.

Currently, I am already running my own consultancy business, which I love. This achievement fuels my ambition to explore new horizons while continuing to grow professionally and personally.

Can you share how your journey in your current career began, and what drew you to it?

After completing high school, I joined Matty Reid Promotions, a model agency, where I assisted with fashion shows and participated in various production activities.

A friend who had resigned from SABC to move abroad prompted me to apply for her position, and I was fortunate to be hired there in 1991.

At just 19 years old, I began my career as a secretary in the Transmitter and Technology department, alongside over 20 gentlemen, within a bustling building of approximately 2,000 employees.

Determined to connect with colleagues from all departments, I made it my mission to engage with staff in the elevator and the canteen each day.

This proactive approach caught the attention of the head of the SABC Advertising Department, who remarked, “You should be the SABC’s ambassador!”

This encouragement led me to embark on a journey in marketing, where I managed the advertising for 25 radio stations and discovered my passion for client service and marketing.

To further my skills, I pursued studies in Advertising at the AAA, focusing on Account Management, Brand Management, and Client Service.

In addition to my marketing pursuits, I nurtured a passion for fitness and was invited to appear on several aerobics TV shows (Body Beat & Good Morning SA).

Inspired by this experience, I trained in aerobics instruction and taught classes at various gyms throughout Johannesburg as a hobby.

After many fulfilling years at SABC, I transitioned to a competitor, Primedia Broadcasting, where I gained invaluable experience. Eventually, I decided to take a bold step and launch my own consultancy and service provider company, called “Entitled2.”

Currently, I am promoting an innovative television solution known as “In Content Advertising,” which allows brands to seamlessly integrate their products into top TV shows, from storefront builds to digital post-production product placements, offering a cost-effective way for brands to gain visibility on television.

We all have different versions of what success means to us. What does success look and feel like to you?

My version of success is doing something that gives me goosebumps and brings a sense of fulfillment, all while being compensated for it.

I believe that my success stems from years of experience and learning from my mistakes.

My credibility is more valuable than gold, and I am grateful to have had God’s support throughout my career.

What does your morning routine involve? Please share how you start your day.

Every morning, I awaken to the inspiring Word of the Day from my Bible app, taking a moment to pray for God’s guidance and protection over my family while also seeking His blessings for my actions throughout the day.

Afterward, I have the privilege of taking my beautiful daughters to school, cherishing the time we spend together during our car rides, moments that I will hold dear forever.

Once I’ve dropped them off, I head to the gym for a revitalizing workout, followed by a 20-minute sauna session where I meditate and reflect on my goals and intentions.

It’s in this serene time that I prepare myself for the day ahead, filled with exciting business challenges and client meetings that await me. I close my day off with more valuable time with my daughters and Frenchies.

What is the thing you enjoy doing the most (not business related) and why?

I particularly enjoy sightseeing of historical buildings that transport me back in time as I listen to the stories behind these remarkable places.

I find joy in exploring diverse cultures and their lifestyles, which enrich my perspective on life.

Is there a woman who stands out for you, who really inspires you?

This can be someone in your close circle, or someone you don’t know personally, for example, an author or podcast host, or someone else.

My mother is my role model. Her strength and determination carried our family through challenges. The way she trusted in God’s will and nurtured her relationship with Jesus has been the foundation that shaped who I am today.

What is a personal mantra or quote that motivates you?

For success, Attitude is equally important as Ability.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about you?

I love listening to gospel services by Billy Graham and gospel music. They always remind me of my earthly father and draw me closer to my Heavenly Father.

What personality characteristic/s do you love about yourself?

My father and mother taught me the importance of humility and maintaining a light heart. I enjoy making people laugh, whether through something I say or even my silly actions, as it brings joy to those around me.

I am determined and enjoy taking on challenges. I find fulfillment in helping others whenever I can and make a conscious effort to listen attentively and empathetically.

What is your greatest strength, and how has it helped you in your journey?

My spirit and drive are rooted in the unwavering determination to never give up. I believe in learning from each experience, going back, and trying again, this time striving to do it better!

What does self-confidence mean to you, and how have you cultivated it?

I derive my self-confidence from the Word of God, knowing that we are created in His image. Through both good times and challenging moments, my character has been molded, and the trust I have in my Creator has continually strengthened my confidence.

What are you most proud of, in your business and/or personal life?

Business, I am most proud of the years of experience I have gained in my industry. I consider myself a brand, and my background in advertising has taught me to build and maintain brand equity, which I believe will be a valuable asset in any professional setting.

Personally, I take pride in being a responsible and loving mother to my daughters. I strive to set a positive example by teaching them about Jesus and taking them to church, giving them unconditional love just as Jesus offers us. These values are central to who I am and guide my actions every day.

If you could share one piece of business advice for someone starting out, what would it be?

When you fail, get up, dust yourself off, and view it as a valuable learning experience. Embrace your errors, reflect on what went wrong, and use that knowledge to improve and do better next time.

Remember, setbacks are simply opportunities for growth and resilience.

What is a piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

To my younger self, do not fear the unknown. Instead, embrace it with open arms, trusting that every new experience is an opportunity for growth, learning, and discovery.

Believe in your strength to navigate whatever comes your way.

How did you feel being photographed? And what feelings emerged when you saw your portraits for the first time?

I was initially concerned that being photographed might look too staged, but Monica created such a relaxed and comfortable environment. This greatly boosted my confidence and allowed me to thrive in front of the camera.

I got tears in my eyes when I saw the end product, and I can’t stop thanking God for being our Artist and Sculptor.

Hair and makeup, Donna Hay and I had such a great time in the studio with Christina and her daughters, Amber and Bianca.  I’ll be sharing images of the three of them in a separate blog post.