Helping unite all under the Sun

Cynthia Mhlongo, a 22-year-old HR management graduate from Maboloka in North West, joined Sun International through the University of Johannesburg’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme after a presentation by the company’s Bianca Lemessa, Lethabo Khoza, and Fikile Zulu. After applying for an internship and attending an interview, the industrious Mhlongo started her internship on 17 August 2022, and five months later, has become a permanent member of the HR department.

Mhlongo’s job involves offering support to the Group HR department, particularly in learning and development, talent, and transformation. She assists the team with tasks as they come, based on their workload. Due to her commitment and hard work, Mhlongo has quickly become a valuable member of the HR team.

My biggest motivation comes from my parents back at home. I am the first graduate in my family which makes them happy. I always strive to do my best and make them proud. Cythnia Mhlongo

How did you come to work at Sun International?

I never imagined I would work here. The HR team took a gamble on me based on my interview. It’s been amazing going from attending a class presentation to an intern doing filing and admin work, to now being in this position. It was hard at times, as I was already working in two divisions at UJ while studying and working here. But it’s been a journey of learning for me, discovering what I like and where I fit in in all these different HR functions.

How did you get the opportunity to work at Sun International?

I was offered an internship after applying and attending an interview through my degree's WIL programme. While interning, I applied for a department coordinator role and was appointed on 1 February 2023 after five months with the company.

How does HR maintain a positive company culture?

HR is the only function in the workplace with a dual role, working with both the interests of the employees and management. As HR professionals, we remind people of the importance of acting in accordance with company values. Without HR, employees may simply perform their job and leave, but we bring them together, encouraging teamwork and fostering a healthy employment relationship and a positive organisational culture. Ultimately, HR is all about helping.

Tell us about your educational background.

Initially, I envisioned a career as a scientist or meteorologist, having studied science in high school. I never anticipated studying HR, but from 2019 to 2022, I was equipped with the necessary knowledge required to work in this space through the WIL programme. Although it was challenging to balance studying and investing a significant amount of effort and time into school, it helped me prioritise things, making it easier for me to manage my day-to-day duties.

What inspired you to pursue an HR career?

I’ve always had a passion for helping people, and this career field and aligns well with my passion. I’ve found a career that suits me, allowing me to offer a helping hand every day of the week.

What has been your biggest challenge and accomplishment in your career so far?

I tend to be more productive at night, so waking up early is a daily challenge. But I am working towards improving this aspect of my routine. Getting a permanent role at Sun has been my goal since starting here. I have grown to love the friendly and positive environment, amazing colleagues, managers, and the friendships I have made. I started in Employee Relations and had the opportunity to work with Central Office HR before moving on to Group HR. My greatest accomplishment in this role was tapping into all these different spaces, learning about them, and gaining exposure in a matter of months. This achievement is significant to me because it shows that I can achieve anything I set my mind to in this life.

How do you stay motivated and engaged?

Learning something new every day motivates me. My team members are incredible, helpful people, which helps. My biggest motivation comes from my parents back at home. I am the first graduate in my family which makes them happy. I always strive to do my best and make them proud. I hold myself to a high standard.

What do you think sets Sun International apart in the industry?

I find the environment here so welcoming. The friendly vibes are good for mental health, and it motivates me to grow within the company. If you come to work here feeling stressed, someone will undoubtedly help you turn your day around. The people at Sun genuinely care about each other, and it creates a positive, pleasant atmosphere.