Paving the way for women

Penny’s journey in the packaging industry began at Tetra Pak, where she served as the director of communication for Southern Africa and GMEA: cluster lead for public affairs. 

It was here that Penny discovered the profound impact packaging can have – not just on product preservation, but also on sustainability and public health. ‘What made me stay in the industry was the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change – promoting innovations that not only protect and preserve products, but also minimise environmental impact,’ she recalls.

For Penny, the packaging industry is more than just a career, it’s a platform for driving change. This passion is evident in her advocacy for women’s representation in the sector. ‘Women’s representation in packaging and print is crucial because diversity in perspectives leads to more innovative solutions,’ she explains. Penny firmly believes that when women are involved in decision-making processes, the industry benefits from a broader range of ideas and approaches, particularly in areas like sustainability, design and consumer engagement.

But Penny’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Navigating a male-dominated industry and balancing work-life responsibilities have been significant hurdles. ‘One of the most significant barriers I’ve faced has been gender bias,’ she notes. However, these challenges have also shaped her resilience and determination, fuelling her advocacy for greater equity and support for women in the industry.

Inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in packaging and print is another cause close to Penny’s heart. She emphasises the importance of showcasing the industry’s potential for creativity, innovation and impact. ‘Offering mentorship programmes, internships and educational workshops can help young women see the diverse opportunities available,’ she suggests. Penny believes that highlighting the stories of successful women in the industry can serve as powerful inspiration, showing that women, too, can lead and innovate in this field.

Her commitment to supporting other women in the industry is unwavering. Penny advocates for the creation of networks where women can celebrate each other’s successes and offer guidance during challenges. ‘Women can support each other by actively mentoring and sharing opportunities,’ she says. Moreover, Penny underscores the importance of advocating for policies and practices that promote gender equality in the workplace, ensuring that all women have the resources and support they need to thrive.

Reflecting on her career, Penny offers sage advice to her younger self and, by extension, to the next generation of women in packaging: ‘Embrace every challenge as a learning opportunity and never underestimate the power of persistence. Don’t be afraid to take risks and remember that your voice and perspective are valuable.’