Lindiwe Gumede has come a long way since her first job as a bank teller at FNB. She’s worked with some of the world’s biggest brands, including Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and Tiger Brands, and picked up a Harvard qualification for good measure. Now chief marketing officer at Metropolitan, she’s clearly not one to sit still. When she’s not building brands, she’s training for Hyrox, heading out on hikes and relying on Face ID to remember her passwords. And, like the rest of us, she has a soft spot for Denzel Washington.
What’s the best book you’ve read in the last year and why?
Two books stand out for me. The first is The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle, which offers valuable lessons in building strong team cultures and the behaviours that can gradually undermine teamwork. The second is Poems & Prayers by Matthew McConaughey. It is more light-hearted, with beautifully crafted and inspiring reflections, balanced with a unique sense of humour.
How do you keep fit?
Strength and conditioning exercises and running. I am training for a Hyrox competition in November.
What’s your go-to restaurant for a low-key weeknight meal?
Tortellini d’Oro. A quiet time to connect with loved ones over a great meal.
What artwork will you always love and why?
Anything by Nelson Makamo. His work is a striking celebration of African beauty, culture and storytelling.
Do you have a hobby? What is it?
Hiking. It’s always refreshing to be outdoors, a chance to reflect, de-stress and enjoy the views.
What’s the one unusual item you can’t live without?
I am highly reliant on Face ID rather than memorising all my passwords.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
Denzel Washington. I mean, who doesn’t like him …
Three songs you’d take to a desert island?
Say a Little Prayer by Lianne La Havas, When Days Are Dark, Friends Are Few by Sipho Gumede and Kubobonke Othixo by Ntokozo Mbambo.
