Putting it all on the line

It's fascinating how opportunities seem to present themselves at just the right time. Hailing from Dundee, KwaZulu-Natal, 22-year-old marketing graduate Ntobeko Nkabinde landed an internship at Sun International after receiving a fortuitous phone call. He made the most of the chance, leading to a permanent position within two-and-a-half months as a telephone agent for SunBet. The University of Johannesburg (UJ) alumnus spends his working day answering calls, booking clients, providing useful information and building relationships to drive revenue.

Strive to be an example, always be willing to go over and above to help the organisation, and I guarantee it will help you achieve your goals and aspirations. Ntobeko Nkabinde

How did you end up at Sun International?

I never expected to be in this position. I had just finished writing my final exams when I received a call from a classmate about an internship opportunity at Sun International. I’m still grateful for that call because it led me to a new family who always motivate me. Hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed here!

Please describe your career journey so far.

My journey has been more about self-discovery than anything else. I enrolled at UJ in 2019 to study marketing and launched my sneaker brand just before the COVID-19 outbreak. Unfortunately, I lost everything due to the lockdown restrictions. I got back to my mission of achieving financial freedom by taking up a sales position. However, I left when universities reopened in 2022. This eventually led me to this amazing family at Sun International.

What soft skills do you think are most important for someone starting out in their career?

I’m a big believer in teamwork. Regardless of one's background or position, if you’re willing to work and collaborate, you’ll go far. Teamwork is imperative as it helps us achieve our common goal of providing excellent service to our customers and being the leading hospitality and gaming company in Africa. I’ve been developing my teamwork skills by learning how to communicate more effectively, being selfless, and reminding myself that victory is sweeter when you have a team around you.

How has working at Sun International impacted your career aspirations?

You write your own book in life. Often, you hear people complain about their jobs and the corporate environment. Sun International has given me nothing to complain about. This has pushed me to deliver more than is expected of me. I want to keep delivering results until I get that corner office on the fifth floor!

What do you love about working at Sun International?

I love Sun International’s collaborative nature. You never feel truly alone, as there is always someone to advise you. Even though we’re in a corporate environment, everyone is still treated like a human being, without micromanagement or distrust. I value an environment where everyone can be themselves without feeling like they will be judged because of their background.

How have you overcome the challenges you've faced in your career?

I’ve learned to be patient and trust the process. It's a constant battle of wanting to do more, offer the company my ideas, and show my worth. At times, I struggle with wanting to offer more than my current role allows, but I overcome this by believing in the long-term vision and the knowledge that when the time is right, I will be in a position where I can express my ideas. For now, I need to gather as much knowledge and guidance from those above and around me.

What advice do you have for anyone about to enter the workforce?

Enjoy the ride, first and foremost. Strive to be an example, always be willing to go over and above to help the organisation, and I guarantee it will help you achieve your goals and aspirations. Always maintain a positive attitude because it will take you further!

How do you stay motivated and engaged in your career?

Nothing beats staying enthusiastic. The Sun International environment feels like home. Every morning, I arrive excited to engage with clients and give my best because the company values align with my belief that passion and dedication will always be rewarded.

“Competence beats accomplishments beats confidence" is the mantra I live by. Once you put in effort to understand your role, you’ll start accomplishing small victories that will boost your confidence. You won't see anything as an obstacle. It will be just another victory you can't wait to achieve!

What are your career goals?

My major goal is to become a marketing strategist, preferably within Sun International. My aim is to formulate, structure, and implement strategies to constantly grow the company and take us to the forefront of innovation in the gaming and hospitality sector, not only in Africa, but the world over.

Do you have a hobby that has helped you in your career?

I have several hobbies that may seem peculiar, from my love of philosophy to my fascination with developing strategies. However, the one that has the most significant impact on my work is soccer. On the pitch, I’m a vocal leader who is determined to help the team achieve victory, and this drive and fighting spirit translate into my daily efforts to improve and support my colleagues.