#WomensMonth Newsmaker: Tazleen January from SACO

Briefly tell us about your role as knowledge manager?

January: My role as knowledge manager is to manage the library and documentation centre and all the information that we receive from the researchers and other staff members. I do some editing on these research pieces and make sure that where there could be a copyright issue that referencing is used correctly. I also handle our website updates and make sure that we have a record of all information. I also try to source new books that are relevant to our sector and those that would be widely used by our target audience.

What will your first order of business be?

January: Well, my first order of business when I started was to familiarise myself with the library and documentation centre and our website and the contents thereof. I then started looking at the Google analytics of our website in order to formulate a website usage report for our first quarter.

I am now in the process of restructuring our website and also staying on top of what is happening in the ACH sectors in South Africa.

What is your core strategy as knowledge manager of the South African Cultural Observatory?

January: My core strategy is to read as much as possible and stay up to date with what is happening in the ACH and CCI industries. Also, to support existing structures and finding new ways to keep our “knowledge” cutting-edge and relevant. But most importantly to make sure that the information is actually being used.

What is your main business challenge?

January: The main challenge has been coming into an industry (ACH) which I never thought I would be a part of. It is a huge learning curve, but I am learning every day and becoming more confident in the sector.

Most important attribute needed to do your job?

January:

Domain and sector knowledge

As it's Women's Month, do you think it's important having a month dedicated to women?

January: Yes, women are amazing (and I’m not just saying that because I am one). It gives us a chance to focus on women who have made significant contributions towards women being treated equally. Often, in our generation, we forget that it was once unheard of for women to be a part of the job market, let alone become managers.

It also serves as inspiration to young women who are facing struggles and shows that women can do anything they set their minds to, no matter how cheesy that may sound. It is important for us to be reminded of these past struggles, some of which we still face, and continue to work towards gender equality.

What advice would you give to women pursuing a career in your field?

January: Pursuing a career in this field, you would need to be tough (not all men like being criticized by a female) and have a huge love for reading. It goes without saying that “knowledge manager” means that your core business is working with information. You need to be able to read this information, understand it and also have wide industry knowledge in order to “keep your finger on the pulse” at all times. You also need to have a flair for intriguing people or getting their attention. There is no point in having cutting-edge, relevant information if it is not being utilised.

What's at the top of your bucket list?

January: Personal – Bungee Jumping; Education/Career – Completing my Doctorate.