LYNETTE HUNDERMARK

Cofounder of mobile solutions company Useful & Beautiful

IN2014 I was at the pinnacle of my career as a mobile industry expert when, out of the blue, the company closed and I was retrenched. I felt confusion, shock and despair; I had no clue what to do next. I’d carved out a unique role for myself in the company, and nothing like that existed elsewhere.

To make matters worse, my husband and I had just purchased a new home and we were in the process of moving; it couldn’t have come at a worse time. We decided to move in with my parents to save money and create some stability for our two sons.

I began talking to my peers in the industry, and it dawned on me that if I couldn’t find another position in the same field I would have to create something of my own. I was filled with self-doubt, but my mentor reminded me that I had all the necessary skills and resources, and that I would be doing more or less the same thing, only this time it would be for myself. So I decided to go for it. I started my business on the floor of my parents’ lounge.

Six years later I have a thriving mobile solutions consultancy and

I have been recognised as one of the top-30 most influential women in South African digital marketing. I also lecture and mentor young women in tech, which I find hugely rewarding.

I won’t pretend it’s been easy. But I am proud of what

I’ve created, and my challenges have made me a far more authentic and compassionate person. Life is like a card game: all we can do is play the hand we’re dealt to the best of our ability and make the most of it.