Tarlia Sooman
Nominee's Province:
Gauteng
Age:
34
Project Name/Description:
Understanding the problem before rushing in with a solution is a foundational pillar for Tarlia Sooman. She heads up operations for the Matlala Group – a rapidly expanding IT company in Centurion, Mahikeng and Limpopo. Tarlia says it is fulfilling working for a company that doesn’t chase profits at all costs. “Of course we have a business that needs to make revenue, but the real passion is IT and youth empowerment. I like to think of it as doing good business while doing good,” she says. To Tarlia, doing good business means you don’t throw technology fixes at clients and overwhelm them with expensive solutions that are out of their depth. “Rather than leading with products, we focus on solving problems and implementing the technology that is best suited to deliver meaningful outcomes. We also understand that technology investments are significant decisions for our clients.” As head of operations, Tarlia has a role in an ambitious recruitment drive which prioritises hiring young talent. “We intentionally and actively create opportunities for young talent to enter, develop, and grow within the technology sector. “As a female and a mom, I am so proud to be part of an organisation that believes in nurturing future leaders and innovators.”
