When you step into the Synchron Markings offices in Cape Town, the vibrant energy of its all-women team is immediately palpable. This dynamic team, represented by MD Sarah Sonnenberg, sales consultant Lynne Robertson and sales and marketing manager Phumzile Dlamini, represents a compelling narrative of growth, strategic leadership and innovation in the packaging industry.

Sarah’s journey into the packaging world began serendipitously with a holiday job at Synchron Markings. Her father, Alan Gillet, purchased the company in 1991 and Sarah, fresh from varsity in 1994, found herself immersed in this burgeoning industry.

Through dedication and a keen understanding of market needs, Sarah carved out a niche in brand protection and document authentication, leading projects such as providing security foils for prepaid phone cards across the African continent. With a

13-year tenure on the board of Bowler-Metcalf and a role as regional chair for Africa for the Young Presidents Organisation (YPO), Sarah exemplifies the dynamic influence women bring to the packaging industry. Her passion for the industry deepened as she pursued courses through the Institute of Packaging South Africa (IPSA) and forged strong partnerships, notably with the highly innovative Leonhard KURZ.

Sarah advocates strongly for women’s representation in packaging and print. ‘Women are the biggest consumers of goods, often the purchasers and users. Having women involved right from the design and concept stage gives a better perspective on finding innovative solutions within the field,’ she asserts.

Synchron Markings is a testament to this ethos, with women organically rising to leadership roles. ‘I’ve often tried to reflect how that happened. I think having women in leadership roles made other women feel safe and that they could have aspirations within the organisation,’ Sarah muses. This inclusive environment fosters a unique dynamic, enriching both work teams and boardroom discussions.

To attract young talent to the packaging sector, Sarah stresses the need for greater collaboration between educational institutions and the industry. ‘There’s a definite disconnect between the industry and design and packaging academies and universities,’ she observes. ‘Bridging this gap is vital for nurturing the next generation of designers and innovators.’

Sarah’s career has seen its share of challenges, particularly in navigating the complexities of a family business. Her involvement with YPO has provided a global network for learning and leadership development. She emphasises the importance of mentorship, advising: ‘Just do it. Take the risk and make the mistakes. Tap into real knowledge and ask for input.’

Quirky Q&A

Your spirit animal? Eagle.

Two non-essential items you would want if shipwrecked on a deserted island? My mountain bike and a friend.

If you could have any superpower? Infinite energy.

Your last meal? Lamb chops and mashed potatoes.

Power of mentorship

The experienced Lynne Robertson, sales consultant at Synchron Markings, has been a key advocate for women’s involvement in the traditionally male-dominated packaging and print industry. Her journey began unexpectedly with a three-year in-house apprenticeship as a photolithographer after matriculating. ‘Starting in a male-dominated industry was challenging,’ Lynne reflects. ‘Finding acceptance was a significant hurdle, but perseverance and dedication paid off.’

At Synchron Markings, specialists in architectural fabrics, foil stamping for packaging and labelling design and decorative adhesive paper, Lynne leverages her extensive experience to provide bespoke solutions that enhance operational efficiency and product quality.

She affirms the importance of women in the industry, stating: ‘Women bring a different element to print and can offer skills and expertise from a unique approach.’

Lynne emphasises the power of mentorship and networking, advocating for a supportive community that fosters growth and development. Her advice to her younger self encapsulates this philosophy: ‘Life is an unpredictable journey and nothing, nor you yourself, are perfect. So don’t take things so seriously.’

Drive and creativity

Phumzile Dlamini, the sales and marketing manager at Synchron Markings, epitomises the drive and creativity propelling the packaging and print industry forward. Her career began with a temporary admin role at Novus Holdings, which transitioned into the Print Sales Trainee Programme at Novus Academy. ‘The programme offered in-depth, on-the-job training that covered everything from pre-press to planning and printing,’ she explains.

Phumzile’s passion for design and the industry’s continuous evolution fuels her commitment to the packaging and print sector. ‘Seeing our work on store shelves and knowing it helps brands connect with customers is incredibly rewarding,’ she says.

Phumzile underscores the importance of diverse perspectives. ‘Women bring creativity, innovation and a balanced approach to decision-making,’ she asserts. Her mentors, all women, have guided and inspired her, reinforcing the need for more female representation.

Phumzile emphasises showcasing the creative and innovative aspects of packaging and print to attract young women to the industry. ‘Highlighting successful women through interviews and mentorship programmes can inspire the next generation,’ she suggests. Despite the challenges she has faced, including transitioning from public management to a technical field, Phumzile’s resilience has driven her success.

Her advice to her younger self highlights the importance of continuous learning, taking calculated risks and upholding values and ethical standards.

The collective achievements of Sarah, Lynne and Phumzile highlight the transformative power of women in the packaging and print industry. Their journeys inspire future generations of women ready to make their mark in this dynamic field. At Synchron Markings, the future is bright, led by a team of dedicated, innovative and resilient women.

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