Seeds of Change - Women in Agriculture

Ilonka van Diggelen, Business Manager at the Land Bank People & Culture Division?

Ilonka van Diggelen began her journey at the Land Bank in May 2016, stepping into the role of Business Support Manager within the People & Culture Division, formerly known as Human Capital. This position closely mirrored her previous experience at the Development Bank of South Africa, drawing on her background in project management and human capital. Her passion for people and their development has always driven her, and this role allowed her to engage deeply in various people-related matters.?

Based at the Head Office in Centurion, Ilonka’s role as a Business Manager within the People & Culture Division is multifaceted. It involves reporting, coordination, strategy alignment, policy reviews, risk management, and providing general support to the team. She also ensures that the Chief People & Culture Officer receives the necessary support to enable the division to deliver on its strategic goals. Working directly with the Chief People & Culture Officer, whom she respects and values immensely, she is proud to be considered her “right hand.”?

No two days are the same in Ilonka’s position. Her schedule is always dynamic, filled with engagements ranging from addressing general queries like leave and performance management to offering personal advice when colleagues confide in her. She supports the entire People & Culture team on policy-related matters, organisational restructuring projects, job profiling, and reporting. She lives by the mantra: “Each day on its own and one day at a time.”?

In Ilonka’s perspective, people management and agriculture form the foundation of our existence. She believes we cannot thrive without emotional nurturing, growth, and a sense of purpose, just as agriculture cannot flourish without care and attention. Both fields are intertwined, requiring mutual support to contribute positively to society. Her passion for people and sustainable agriculture is deeply connected, as one cannot exist without the other.?

Balancing personal and professional demands is crucial. Every day, Ilonka seeks strength and wisdom from God to handle the challenges she faces. While life may never achieve perfect balance, what remains within her control is how she reacts and engages with daily demands. She is fortunate to have a loving husband who supports her in all her endeavours, occasionally reminding her to switch off and maintain a healthy work-life balance.?

For those considering a career in agriculture, Ilonka advises reflecting on their motivations. Do they have perseverance, patience, a love for nature, respect for the environment, and the ability to manage occasional defeat and loss? If the answer is yes, then they should embrace this path. It may not be easy, but with their heart and mind in the right place, success is attainable in the long run.?

" I am grateful for the opportunity to work at the Land Bank. Despite the challenges, my passion for the Bank and its people outweighs any difficulties. I believe in our potential to build a stronger institution. The past few years have been tough, but we are survivors and fighters, and we do not give up. To my colleagues at the Bank, I urge you to keep going, maintain faith, and continue giving your best. Don't give up!” Ilonka?