Diamonds are formed under pressure

Owen Sikanda is the head of benefits administration at the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF)
Michelline Nawatises
Monique Adams

Pull out quote “With the excellent leadership of GIPF management, we are able to work remotely, manage performance and this has improved our operational efficiency.”

The innovative Sikanda has contributed to the strategy of GIPF by promoting a governance culture within his team which strives every day to achieve the true and intended positive outcomes of governance principles and practices.

He mentions that his team strives to deliver a welcoming and very professional interaction with their members and stakeholders in a manner that is right, fast and humane.

Just like all things in life, everything comes with a challenge and in his role Covid-19 has been a major challenge. He had to stay innovative by finding new ways how his team could continue delivering excellent services to all members.

The highlight of his role is the ability to contribute to the operations department in achieving the strategic plan of GIPF by leading a vibrant team aimed at achieving excellent services through efficient and effective workflow processes.

As a family man, how does he balance it all? Sikanda is a father of four beautiful girls - Nazeem, Nazeeha and twins Jade and Jayda. During the weekends and after working hours he helps his children with their schoolwork and takes care of the twins.

“You will not believe how I have become an expert in changing diapers and preparing milk. But during weekends as a family we spend time either cycling, swimming, having a family braai and going to church,” Sikanda says.

Sikanda’s future plans are to further his studies in 2022 to enhance his knowledge in leadership and obtain new skills to adapt to an ever-changing environment.

He would also like to have a positive impact on the lives of his colleagues and family through his contribution in professional and personal capacity.