1. Who is Andra Nel

I am a passionate, driven and loving mother, wife, friend, daughter who ultimately believes that all people have good in them and that everyone does what they think is best from their level pf consciousness. I fundamentally believe that we are all here for a reason and it is my life purpose to figure out what that reason is and to achieve that as best I can.

2. You worked for the Highveld Lions for 10 years and played and integral part in getting the WSMC Project of the ground. What were your fondest memories of the 2 years of planning , which culminated in its opening on 1 March 2016?   

The moments I remember most fondly are the moments when we were encountering challenges and barriers - and how we gathered together to find solutions. Never quitting, never considering defeat. What I loved about this project is that there were no losers, it was an obvious win-win for everyone. I was also immeasurably inspired by Craig’s passion and single-mindedness - he knew what he wanted to achieve and was willing to do everything he had to to achieve the dream.

3. You now work for KFC. What is your job description? And what have you been working on during lockdown?

I am the CSI Manager for KFC Africa - in my job I have the great privilege to work on projects that are shaping and securing the futures of nearly 300,000 children in South Africa through Add Hope and Mini Cricket. Working on our brand purpose is a great privilege and I really enjoy this next chapter of my career. During lockdown, many of the schools that provide meals to over 150,000 children every day were no longer able to do so. As a team, we were able to partner with the incredible non-profit organisations we work with to provide emergency food parcels to families hit hardest by the pandemic. We’ve provided close to 5 million meals now and although the need is still so great, it really is rewarding to be a part of this great initiative.

4. SME’s have struggled during the lockdown. What advice can you share with our readers who have small businesses and a depleted marketing budget?  

The hardest times are often where the most innovative ideas are born - thinking and doing differently is the new norm for most businesses. Find the reason why your business and product exist and amplify the need it addresses. I also think during this time the power of networks are also an incredible asset to have. Most of all, just never give up.

5. 2020 has been a year to remember regarding the COVID_19 Pandemic. How has the pandemic effected you positively? 

The pandemic and working from home has helped me prioritise my self-care - physical and mental wellness is a real priority for me now. Spending this amount of time with loved ones is something that I might not have had otherwise. I am also incredibly inspired by the helpers out there - people thay are willing to do whatever they can for those that are worst affected