Pria Hassan

Pria Hassan is the executive chair of the Women of Africa Group. Pria’s upbringing in Reservoir Hills, Durban was shaped by a family where her father, an entrepreneur, and her mother, a traditional housewife with solid values, kept her grounded. “I lived with my grandmother who believed deeply in the power of education,” she recalls.

She pursued higher education at Howard College Law School before advancing to the University of Pretoria. “It was there that I was admitted as an advocate in Johannesburg,” she says. Her career, however, didn’t remain confined to law. “I ventured into finance, logistics, property, mergers, acquisitions, and so much more,” she explains, describing a journey that led her to the petroleum industry.

“My first job was far removed from the industry I am in now,” she reminisces. “I drove my late uncle’s truck for a glass and aluminium company, working in areas like Verulam and Umlazi, managing logistics and making deliveries.” She explains that the experience was invaluable. “It instilled in me the values of hard work, responsibility, and resilience.”

Pria added, “The best advice I ever received came from my late uncle. I was only 11 when he told me, ‘Never forget where you came from and where you are going. You are not responsible for the wind around you, only for managing your own sail’.” This wisdom has guided her through life. She says, “I’ve navigated rough waters by adjusting my (sails) expectations and being courageous, even in the face of adversity.”

In addition, the exposure to the logistics chain laid a foundation for her understanding of the business world. “I learned that no job is too small or too large when it comes to building a future. Those early experiences gave me insight into how every part of the supply chain contributes to the overall economy in Africa.”

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
As executive chair of Women of Africa Group, Pria’s purpose is rooted in a desire for sustainable growth. “The petroleum industry is undergoing significant changes and the supply of cleaner energy is fundamental,” she says. “My task is to steer the company through this renewable transition, ensuring we balance profitability with environmental stewardship.” She sees digitisation as a key area for growth to promote sustainable practices, reduce emissions, and to make the organisation more environmentally friendly.

Pria’s goal is to drive investment in infrastructure development within the petroleum industry especially as there is a lack of bulk storage facilities in Africa owned and managed by women. She added, “In the next five years, I want to ensure that Women of Africa remains relevant and becomes a leading force across multiple industries.”

SHEER DETERMINATION
“The toughest challenge for me has always been breaking the glass ceiling in the oil and petroleum industry,” Pria admits. “Early in my career, I faced prejudice for being a woman in a high-stakes commodity market.” However, knowledge from the legal fraternity helped her stay formidable. She says, “I had the foresight and sheer determination to keep pushing forward, earning my seat at the table.”

Even now, Pria sees challenges within the industry. “The issues persist, but I refuse to sit back and complain. I am committed to fostering change. I aim to be an influential force not just in energy, petrochemicals but in our business of logistics, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.”

These challenges have come with a cost. “As a leader, prioritising my mental wellness became crucial in my journey, Pria shares candidly. “I’ve experienced burnout traveling to different continents; sleep evaded me as I tried to juggle my various roles which eventually led to me relying on sleeping medication. My triumph inspired me to launch Women of Africa Healthcare and Wellness which aims to provide more facilities for mental health support.”

Pria says that one of her proudest accomplishments is the Women of Africa Foundation. “The greatest gift we can give the next generation is our wisdom and experience,” she explains. “The foundation is my legacy. It focuses on education, providing access to urgent healthcare, and promoting mental wellness.”

The foundation is also a vehicle for other initiatives close to her heart. “We are working on sports academies and an entrepreneurship programme for young people. The foundation is about community, togetherness, and accelerated empowerment.”

Pria has been fortunate to have a supportive husband and loyal brother, her foot soldiers, who share her vision. Pria believes her team is one of her greatest assets, not just because they are strong, but because they consist of the right people who are even more intelligent than she is.

The organisation’s social development programmes play a crucial role in motivating the team. “They see the effect of our initiatives on their own families and communities,” she notes. Pria’s vision extends to ongoing community development. “We need to focus on skills transfer, training, and collaboration,” she emphasises.

Pria is committed to empowering women in traditionally male-dominated sectors. “It is important to show the younger generation the vital part they can play in our future,” she asserts. “Operating in industries like petroleum, logistics, and now healthcare, I want to pave the way for other women to succeed.”

Pria holds a belief that powerful women often draw strength and inspiration from role models who have paved the way before them. “My mother will always be my source of inspiration, giving me hope even in the darkest times,” she says. “She made me realise education is not just a powerful tool for myself but if used effectively can shift the lives of so many others who need you.” She also credits Indra Nooyi for influencing her leadership style. “Indra’s empathy, pragmatism, and ability to drive change in the industry have given me the confidence to lead with purpose.”

“I live by the motto, ‘Be the change you want to see in the world,’” Pria concludes. “It’s a daily reminder that change starts with personal action. It’s not easy, but it keeps me focused on solutions and positive impacts, whether in business or in my community.”