Sareta | 20 Women, 20 Stories Women’s Portrait Campaign

Sareta

 

 

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

My big audacious dream, which sometimes keeps me awake at night, is to transcend into a better version of myself—to evolve into a wiser, more compassionate human being.

While I’m already living parts of my dream—nurturing a poetic voice in the quiet hours, chronicling true stories, and inspiring other women—I aspire to leave a lasting Schutte family legacy that spans  50 generations.

As the custodian of my clan’s values, our family’s legacy, and the proud matriarch of successful enterprises, I strive to measure my choices with wisdom, guided by input from others, towards my true north.

It’s a journey where selfish ambitions have no place, and  I’ve come to understand that I cannot navigate it alone.

Though I’ve grown less susceptible to manipulation, becoming a better human remains my challenging yet deeply fulfilling pursuit. 

 

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

My career path has been a natural progression, but I live and breathe Operations. My forte is making things better rather than accepting them as they are.

I pick out logical inconsistencies,  am fiercely independent, and labour for all my missions. I get things done assertively.

I lean towards perfection; I am a forward planner who launches plans into action. My fun, relaxed, and free time are also scheduled and prioritized.

I remember important details, and please ensure your facts are correct when communicating with me.

My thinking allows me to run much of the world, and I am in my element if a situation needs to be organised, criticised or regulated…this is my secret power.

I am very direct and result-orientated and consider people within that framework. It is impossible to label me. I will stay on a never-ending self-knowledge and self-identity crusade. 

I am pragmatic in my approach to life, dependable and can get things done. I am optimistic and live mainly in the here and now.

I am faithful to my commitments;

I am a powerful leader who thinks on my feet and does not waste any time.

I am a realist and capitalise on available resources – a “work with what I have” kind of girl.

I am a challenging adversary, efficient, with an agile mind and skills combined to generate fast results. 

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

To me, success is multifaceted and deeply personal. It encompasses finding a serene inner peace that shields me from the chaotic noise of the world—an ancient tranquillity that resides in my heart, untouched by external forces.

As a Taurean woman, I appreciate the beauty in my surroundings, echoing Nataniël’s sentiment that life is too short not to indulge in the finer things, like savouring excellent wine from elegant crystal glasses. 

Beyond aesthetics, success extends to influencing like-minded individuals through leading by example. It involves enriching experiences—traveling and immersing myself in the awe-inspiring wonders of God’s creation,

whether it’s the tranquillity of the sea, the rugged beauty of the bush around a crackling fire, or heartfelt conversations with my children and grandchildren.

Success, for me, lies in capturing the enduring magic of life on our beloved planet, Mother Earth, while also navigating the world of business with enthusiasm and joy.

It’s about finding delight in the natural marvels and the tangible achievements of daily life. 

 

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

I wake up at 06:00 to the aroma of coffee made by my husband. I start by checking my virtual diary and catching up on the latest news on social platforms.

Afterward, I shower and prepare for the day ahead. By just after 07:00, I’m usually settled at my desk, eager for the day’s challenges.

Twice a week, I incorporate Pilates into my morning routine. Depending on my schedule, I may enjoy breakfast with my husband, Loffie, before diving back into work or attending meetings. 

 

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

What I enjoy most, away from business, encompasses activities that deeply nourish my soul and connect me with the essence of life.

Designing new dresses and exploring fabric shops is not just a creative outlet but a spiritual journey.

Feeling the textures of fabrics and envisioning their potential fills me with inspiration and fulfillment. 

Sharing good veld coffee with my husband at dawn on our farms, watching the sun rise over the land and the buffalo herds roaming freely, brings profound peace and connection.

Our home in White River is not just a place but a beautiful base from which my gipsy heart delights in traveling and exploring the world. 

I also find great joy in courageous conversations with myself, exploring deeper truths, and reflecting on personal growth.

These moments of introspection and honesty are essential for understanding myself and navigating life authentically. 

Nature plays a vital role in grounding me and providing perspective.

Walking barefoot on the earth’s soil humbles me and reminds me of my place in the grand scheme.

Additionally, my passion for travel fuels my adventurous spirit. I am drawn to exploring new cultures, landscapes, and experiences, believing that travel enriches the soul and broadens perspectives. 

I am deeply passionate about philosophy and love delving into discussions about the meaning of life and our existence on this planet. These intellectual pursuits stimulate my mind and offer insights shaping my life perspective. 

These experiences—creative exploration, intimate moments with loved ones, introspective conversations, communion with nature, travel adventures, and philosophical inquiry—form the mosaic of what brings me true joy and fulfillment outside my professional endeavors. 

 

Is there a woman who stands out for you, who 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 other. 

I am inspired by a diverse array of women throughout history, each leaving an indelible mark on the world.

Queen Elizabeth II embodies grace, dedication, and resilience, navigating decades of duty with unwavering commitment to her people.

Kamala Harris represents progress and breaking barriers, inspiring with her trailblazing journey as the first female Vice  President of the United States.

Emily Hobhouse’s compassion and advocacy for human rights during the Boer War resonate deeply, showing the power of empathy in challenging times. 

Marie Curie’s pioneering spirit in science and her tenacity in the face of adversity inspired me to push boundaries and pursue knowledge fearlessly.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s relentless fight for gender equality and justice is a beacon of courage and perseverance. 

Margaret Thatcher’s leadership and determination in politics underscore the strength and impact of women in positions of power.

Melinda French Gates’ philanthropic efforts and commitment to social causes highlight the importance of using privilege for meaningful change.

Eva Perón’s advocacy for the rights of the underprivileged and her passion for social justice continue to inspire movements for equality.

Coco Chanel’s revolutionary influence in fashion symbolizes creativity and innovation, challenging norms and redefining elegance. 

Maria Montessori’s revolutionary educational philosophy emphasizes nurturing individual potential and lifelong learning.

Amelia Earhart’s daring spirit and pioneering achievements in aviation exemplify courage and determination when facing challenges.

Frida Kahlo’s artistic brilliance and resilience in overcoming personal adversity inspire me to find strength and creativity in the face of hardship.  

These historical icons inspire me because they have each carved paths of significance,  demonstrating the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and purpose throughout history. 

What is a personal mantra or quote that motivates you? 

Fake it till you ARE it – the law of attraction “act as if you already have it” or “act as if”  (Also discussed at length in the SECRET) 

It is not over till the FAT lady sings – one should not presume to know the outcome of an event still in progress.

Failing fashionably forward – turning failure into future. An opportunity to reinvent and innovate yourself. Turning mistakes into stepping stones. 

Attitude is the limit, not the sky – Own where you are, then use that to fuel your inner fire for more significant thinking. Master your mind and your fears… 

Mind over matter – the ability to keep going even when tired.

Controlling a physical  condition:  

Lead by example – act in a way that shows others how to act in similar circumstances. I do things differently – I hate…no, I detest mainstream ideas or doctrines.

When in doubt, leave out – If you are unsure what to do, it is best to do nothing at all  (Kung Fu Panda) 

Cashflow is sanity – cash flow is the lifeblood of every successful venture that allows you to make payroll and pay your creditors. 

 You are ONLY in three places in your life… before a storm, in a storm, or after the storm…

Then you start afresh! 

 

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

I am an avid art collector with a fashion design degree, finding solace in artistic environments where I can heal and rejuvenate.

I am deeply passionate about reading books that transform my self-perception, believing that every person embodies a unique library of experiences.

As a  skilled squash player and motorbike enthusiast drawn to speed, I live by the mantra, “If you  cannot decide or say it in 20 seconds, it is not worth saying or deciding.” 

In harmony with Mother Nature, I find solace in the bush, beach, and the revitalizing energy of waterfalls.

My favourite animals, the elephant, and the alpha wild dog resonate deeply with me, reflecting their strength, intelligence, and intricate social dynamics. 

 

What personality characteristic/s do you love about yourself? 

I set precise goal-orientated objectives, I am sensible, and matter of fact, I am constantly striving towards self-improvement.

I run a tight ship, I am strong-willed, will not be blown or rocketed off course.

I am very bold and energetic, I am an effective implementer, and I will readily accept responsibility.

I display certainty, and I have oodles of self-confidence, I am the keeper of the “finger on the pulse”, and frank, honest, and straightforward leader.  

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

Carl Jung said, “Wisdom accepts that all things have two sides” It is also said that a weakness is simply an overused strength!

My greatest strength is my conscience, and I never tolerate dull moments…I focus on the task and the process; emotion alone cannot influence me.

I break down barriers to enhance the speed of completion, and I tend to tread places Angel’s fear to tread, the proverbial cut through red tape to speed up the outcome.

I always deliver on time; I  defend the truth and am not frightened to fight it.

I am always ready to serve my colleagues; I  encourage others to compete and to “please” cut the shackles of the “fishpond” syndrome. 

 

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

Self-confidence, to me, is the belief in myself and my abilities.

It is the extension of believing in my judgment, skills, and capacity to navigate challenges effectively.

This enables me to be very resilient in facing setbacks. As I said earlier, I am highly self-aware, acknowledge my strengths and weaknesses, set achievable goals, and cultivate a growth mindset.

I think my self-confidence empowers me to pursue my ambitions, take risks, and persevere in all my pursuits.

It is the habit of self-love and belief in my powers. It fuels my courage to step outside my comfort zone often.

Self-confidence involves acknowledging my strengths, weaknesses,  and imperfections and celebrating my achievements.

Self-confidence = Understanding oneself. 

My self-confidence is not something I will ever regret.  

 

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

I take immense pride in overcoming significant obstacles that could have easily led me down a path of pity and negativity.

Instead, these challenges served as early lessons, showing me clearly what I didn’t want in my adult life.

From a young age, I’ve been breaking free from constraints, each liberation boosting my self-confidence and empowering me to shape my circumstances with self-love and self-worth.

Honesty has been a cornerstone since my youth,  offering me a direct and effective approach to navigating life’s challenges—a steadfast core value. 

In my career, I’ve experienced many proud moments.

One highlight is establishing the Schutte  Legacy, including the Family Advice Council and Family Forum, which integrate diverse family traditions in a blended family environment.

As a business and executive coach, I’ve worked closely with executive boards of various national companies, contributing to their growth and success.

Additionally, becoming a licensed Insights Discovery practitioner has been a source of pride, as it connects back to ancient principles dating to Hippocrates in the 5th century BC and  Carl Gustav Jung’s pioneering work on personality types.

Through these roles, I’ve supported others and gained invaluable insights into myself. 

Currently pursuing my Master’s degree, I am dedicated to lifelong learning—an enduring philosophy that fuels my growth and development. 

 

If you could share some business advice for someone starting, what would it be? 

Be bold and brave. Do your homework by establishing a business plan and sticking to it as far as possible.

Always use any conversation as a springboard for more business and networking opportunities.

Fail, fail, and fail fashionably forward, but learn from every failure.  

In the context of Biblical principles that have guided business practices since ancient times,  consider these guidelines:

refrain from accumulating debt, fulfill your obligations to earthly authorities, and genuinely rejoice in the successes of others, among other teachings.

These timeless insights offer valuable wisdom for conducting business with integrity and respect. 

 

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

You are enough; you are strong; your self-discipline is significant, and you should be bolder in your vision;

it should scare you.

If the Nightingale were the sole sound in nature, the veld would resonate with a strange melody.

It is the choir of birdsong that moves your soul. We are  all part of that “birdsong.” You have got this!!!

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

Being in front of the camera was a mix of emotions for me.

I have a strong self-image, yet I  couldn’t help but wonder what the photographer saw and felt as they focused on me.

The lens captures the truth, which can be both uncomfortable and comforting.

By the end of the shoot,  I felt emotionally drained, though unsure why.

Self-critique is part of my nature, yet I also understand that with time, these photos will become treasures—they’ll capture a moment of who I am now and next year,

reflecting on a beautiful glimpse of the past, showing how I’ve aged and evolved.

It would be exciting to hear my family’s perspectives on this personal journey;

I chose self-reflection through your lens, Monica….

 

One of the best perks of being a portrait photographer is meeting new and inspiring women. Thank you, Sareta for sharing your incredible story and your insights, and showing your vulnerability in front of my camera.

I saw not only your strength and resilience but your fortitude and gentleness.

I’ve learned so much from your story…the women that inspire you, the Schutte legacy that you building, and your take on failure: “Fail, fail, and fail fashionably forward, but learn from every failure”. I’ll be implementing many of your life lessons and wise words.

You are exceptional!

 

Hair & Makeup: Kirsten Murphey