Meet Khensani Shirinda, a seasoned IT professional with a decade of experience. With a robust educational background, holding a BTech degree in Operations Management from Tshwane University of Technology and a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Informatics from UNISA, Khensani has carved out a successful career path that blends technical expertise with exceptional stakeholder management skills. Known for her adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for delivering impactful software solutions, Khensani’s journey in the IT industry is a testament to her dedication and continuous pursuit of excellence.
Qualifications and Career Path
Academic Background
Khensani Shirinda holds a BTech degree in Operations Management and a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Informatics. These qualifications have equipped her with a robust foundation in both operational and technological aspects of business management.
Career Choice
Khensani chose her career path with a clear goal: “I wanted to work in IT without being a developer,” she explains. Her interest in IT, combined with her desire to engage with various stakeholders, directed her toward a role that leverages her strengths in problem-solving and communication.
Reflecting on Career Decisions
When asked if she would choose the same career path again, Khensani confidently affirms, “I would definitely do it all over again. I enjoy solving problems and talking to people.” Her passion for her work is evident, and her advice to her younger self emphasizes long-term commitment: “Choose something that you are willing to do for 35 years of your adult life.”
Essential Skills for the Field
In her field, both hard and soft skills are crucial. Adaptability, problem-solving, and stakeholder management are key to her daily responsibilities. “You have to be a nimble learner and that it is fast-paced,” she notes, highlighting the dynamic nature of the IT industry.
Advice for Graduates
For graduates and job seekers, Khensani offers a roadmap: “Be prepared to adapt quickly and continuously learn. Understand the technology landscape and be ready to engage with different stakeholders.” Her insights underscore the importance of versatility and continuous improvement in the IT sector.
Job Responsibilities and Industry Insights
Day-to-Day Activities
Khensani’s role involves a mix of team coordination and stakeholder management. “I run stand-ups (15-minute meetings with the scrum team), manage Jira admin, liaise with different stakeholders, and close feedback loops,” she explains. Her job requires balancing technical tasks with effective communication.
Industry Insights
One surprising aspect of her industry is the pace and the necessity for continuous learning. “An outsider wouldn’t know how fast-paced it is and the need to be a nimble learner,” Khensani remarks. Her transition from a technologically advanced banking environment to her current role also brought unexpected challenges. “The technical landscape was surprising. I was used to the technology in the bank, which is more advanced than the current company,” she recalls.
Future of the Job
With the rise of AI, Khensani believes her job will evolve but remain relevant. The adaptability and problem-solving skills she has honed will continue to be valuable in an AI-augmented workplace.
Challenges and Rewards
Challenges
One of the most challenging aspects of Khensani’s job is the need for rapid adaptation. “I have to adapt to changes quickly, solve problems, and support the teams,” she says. This constant demand for flexibility can be tough but also keeps her role engaging.
Rewards
The most rewarding part of her job is seeing the tangible impact of her work. “Seeing the software we build live in production and adding value to the business” brings her a great sense of accomplishment. Her goal for the year is to deliver a particularly challenging project, which has tested her team’s resilience and problem-solving abilities.
Career Setbacks
Reflecting on her career, Khensani acknowledges that setbacks have often turned into advantages. The challenges she faced in adapting to different technological environments have enhanced her skills and resilience, preparing her for future roles.
Personal and Financial Reflections
Childhood Dreams
Khensani’s 10-year-old self would be surprised by her current role. “I used to be so shy. My work has put me out there, as I engage with everyone from developers to business owners,” she shares. Her journey from a shy child to a confident professional engaging with diverse stakeholders is a testament to her growth.
Dreams Beyond Work
If money were no object, Khensani would indulge her passion for travel. “I would be a globe trotter. I enjoy travelling. If it was possible, I would get paid for it,” she says with a smile.
Financial lessons every kid should know
Khensani’s financial advice for the younger generation is rooted in practical wisdom:
- Understand the “why” behind financial decisions.
- Avoid trying to keep up with others who may be living beyond their means.
- Recognize the high cost of unsecured lending.
- Save for both long-term and short-term goals.
About Author
