Local businesswoman receives global award
Marlene Powell was the first woman to own an ActionCOACH franchise in South Africa.
TWELVE years of hard work has reaped rewards for local business coach, Marlene Powell. Powell was announced as ActionCOACH’s Global ActionMan (woman) of the year for 2020.
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The Hillcrest resident was the first woman to own an ActionCOACH franchise in South Africa. ActionCOACH is a global business coaching organisation with more than 1000 coaches representing 70 countries. Powell said she started her own business when she reached a crossroad in her life and decided that working in the corporate world no longer served her.
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“I saw an opportunity of becoming a business coach. This gave me the opportunity to work from home so I could be a mom to my teenage son and do what I have a passion for, working together with other business owners.” This gave Powell a lifestyle which she was yearning for. She said receiving this prestigious award was something she never ever dreamt of. “It wasn’t even on my vision board but if you love what you do and what you do brings you joy and fulfilment you automatically live the vision, mission and culture of the organisation.
“So now that I think about it, this award highlighted what I just did naturally.” said Powell.
When asked what she does for fun, the wife and mother said she relaxes.
“I love my sunsets so whenever we have the opportunity to go away, usually to the Midlands, that is my timeout to just savour these tranquil moments and reflect on life,” she said.
As a businesswoman, Powell said her personal growth has been a challenge as she had to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
“I had to find my purpose so that I can become more congruent and authentic with what I am doing as I strongly believe in leading by example, getting clarity on who I want to be for me,” she said.
Announcing the win, the master licensee for ActionCOACH South Africa, Harry Welby-Cooke explained that winning the ActionMan award was an amazing achievement.
“This is the most sought after award in the ActionCOACH circle globally and we are extremely proud of Powell for bringing this award home to South Africa. It is rightly and justly deserved,” he said.
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
