Catch Up with Popelelo Pretty Polao | The Face of Retail Group

1. You’ve been part of Retail Group since 2008 — can you take us back to when you first joined as an Office Assistant? What was that experience like? 

When I first joined Retail Group in 2008 as an Office Assistant, everything felt new. I was eager to learn and contribute, even though I was just starting. My focus was supporting the team with administrative duties - filing and assisting wherever I could. It was a great learning experience because it gave me a solid understanding of how the business operates day to day. I also had the chance to interact with different departments, which helped me build relationships and gain insight into the company’s culture. Looking back, that role really laid the foundation for my growth within Retail Group.

2. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned working across different roles at Retail Group?

Working across different roles at Retail Group has taught me a lot - both professionally and personally. One of the biggest lessons has been the importance of adaptability. Every role came with its own challenges, and learning to adjust quickly while staying focused on the bigger picture has been key. I’ve also learned the value of teamwork and communication; no matter how experienced you are, success always comes from working well with others. Lastly, I have gained a deep appreciation for consistency and attention to detail - especially in an environment that’s always evolving. These lessons have really shaped how I approach my work and how I support the people around me. 

Career Development & Education

3. Congratulations on earning your Certificate in HR Management! What inspired you to pursue this qualification while working?

I have always been passionate about working with people and understanding how to bring out the best in a team. Over the years, from supporting staff development to helping create a positive workplace culture. That’s what inspired me to formalize my experience through a Certificate in HR Management. Balancing work and studying wasn’t easy, but it was rewarding because I could apply what I was learning directly to my day-to-day role. It’s helped me grow both professionally and personally, and it’s reinforced my commitment to continuous learning.

4. Balancing work, studies, and personal life is no small feat — how did you manage to stay motivated through it all?

It wasn’t easy, but I stayed motivated by keeping my goals in mind and reminding myself why I started. I knew that furthering my studies would not only help me grow in my career but also allow me to contribute more meaningfully to the company and my team. Time management became very important - I had to plan carefully and make the most of every hour. I also had great support from my colleagues, family, and friends, which made a big difference. There were challenging moments, but seeing the progress I was making kept me going. It taught me resilience and the value of perseverance. 

Reflections & Impact

5. Retail Group clearly plays a big part in your story. What do you appreciate most about the company culture?

What I appreciate most about Retail Group’s culture is the sense of teamwork and support. From the very beginning, I’ve felt that everyone is working toward a common goal, and that creates a strong sense of belonging. The company really values growth and gives people the opportunity to learn, take on new challenges, and build their careers from within. It’s a place where people are encouraged to bring their best every day.

6. Who at Retail Group has inspired you the most along your journey?

I have been fortunate to work with so many talented and supportive people at Retail Group. They really inspired me through their skills. 

Advice & Future Aspirations

7. Where do you see yourself growing next within HR or within the company?

I see myself continuing to grow within HR by taking on more strategic responsibilities, particularly in areas like talent development, employee engagement, and organizational planning. I’m also interested in exploring leadership opportunities where I can mentor others and help shape initiatives that positively impact the company’s culture and performance.

8. What does this milestone — 17 years and a new qualification — mean to you personally?

Reaching 17 years with Retail Group while earning my Certificate in HR Management is incredibly meaningful to me. Personally, it represents dedication, growth, and the value of perseverance. It’s a reminder of how far I have come, from starting as an Office Assistant to now contributing to HR with formal training. It also reinforces my belief in continuous learning and the importance of embracing new challenges. Above all, it’s a milestone that I share with my colleagues, mentors, and family, everyone who has supported me along this journey.

Image: Poppy and Son 

9. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in an entry-level role at Retail Group today?

My advice would be to stay curious, be willing to learn, and take every opportunity to understand how the business operates. No task is too small; every responsibility is a chance to build skills and demonstrate reliability. Also, build strong relationships with your colleagues and seek guidance from mentors; their insights are invaluable. Most importantly, stay patient and persistent. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication and a positive attitude, you can achieve a lot over time.

10. How does it feel to look back and see how far you’ve come since 2008?

Looking back since 2008, it feels both humbling and rewarding. I think about where I started as an Office Assistant, eager to learn and compare it to where I am now, with years of experience and a formal HR qualification. It’s a reminder of the value of hard work, perseverance, and seizing opportunities along the way. I feel proud of my journey, grateful for the mentors and colleagues who supported me, and motivated to continue growing both personally and professionally.