Gretchin Davids, of Plumstead, sees sport and exercise as her outlet for stress.
Youth power is about always learning, having faith in yourself and never giving up, says Gretchin Davids, 26, of Plumstead.
“Fight for your goals no matter what and never give up,” says Gretchin. “Build a strong support system, be it family or friends, because it will make you stronger in moments of doubt or uncertainty.”
After matriculating from Rustenburg Girls High School in 2013, Gretchin did a business administration degree followed by a B Com honours in information systems at UWC.
In 2019, she joined the Engen Graduate Development Programme and now works in the supply chain division at Engen while studying information management: e-logistics at UWC.
Gretchin says the programme has taken her out of her comfort zone. “It’s teaching me how to communicate with people and handle various work situations,” she says.
Her secret to success is understanding that when things don’t work out you must pick yourself up and try again. Her own battles have included a torn ankle ligament, which set back her sporting career as an avid hockey player, and finding a job. “After multiple interviews and motivational letters I thought my time at university had gone down the drain,” she says.
As for play, Gretchin goes to a gym, hikes and plays hockey. “I see sport and exercise as my outlet and a safe place to help me relax and recoup. I also enjoy motivational webinars and spending time with friends and family.”
She dreams of financial freedom and being able to travel the world and experience new cultures. “I want happiness and fulfilment in work and my personal life and firmly believe that if I use my strengths to my advantage, one day I will be the best possible version of myself.”
Gretchin’s advice to schoolchildren is to be positive, even when you feel you are not progressing. “Take any challenge or obstacle one day at a time. You have the choice to decide if it’s one day or day one.”