Leading with Purpose: Carla da Silva Caires’ Journey in Telecommunications

Driving Connectivity and Community Development

Carla da Silva Caires serves as the head of client relations and business development at Insite Towers, a nationally recognised telecommunications infrastructure developer and owner. In this position, Carla is instrumental in expanding the company’s influence and improving connectivity throughout KwaZulu-Natal, with a particular focus on underserved communities.

A Passion for Bridging the Digital Divide

Carla is driven by a deep sense of purpose. She explains that her primary motivation in joining Insite Towers was the company’s dedication to serving areas that have historically lacked access to digital technology. The prospect of enabling people in these regions to benefit from online training, education, and financial opportunities was a significant draw for her. Carla’s commitment is especially evident in her efforts to connect rural and mountainous areas, where she has witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of digital connectivity on individuals who previously had no exposure to smartphones or the internet.

Among her most significant accomplishments, Carla highlights her role in facilitating online education and digital access for previously excluded communities. She feels privileged to have contributed to bridging the digital divide, helping people maintain contact with distant family members and access new opportunities.

Community Upliftment Beyond Infrastructure

Insite Towers’ influence extends beyond building telecommunications infrastructure. Carla is passionate about the company’s holistic approach to community engagement. Whenever the company develops a new site, it ensures that local communities are involved in the construction process and security arrangements. Initiatives such as installing JoJo tanks in schools are examples of the company’s commitment to giving back to underserved regions.

Bold Career Moves and Breaking Barriers

Carla’s career is characterised by bold decisions and a strong desire to drive meaningful change. Previously working as a human resources director, she was initially involved with Insite Towers during its start-up phase, recruiting talent for the company. The shareholders sought someone outside the industry and preferred a woman for the role, given the male-dominated nature of the field. Carla realised the job description resonated with her ambitions and proposed herself for the position, a decision that was met with enthusiasm by the shareholders.

Over the past six years, Carla has made a profound impact within the company and the industry. She has helped transform perceptions in a sector where women are often underrepresented. Her presence in meetings frequently challenges expectations, but she is encouraged by the increasing number of women joining the telecommunications industry, viewing this shift as empowering and indicative of progress.

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Results

The work Carla undertakes is not without its obstacles, particularly regarding the complex permitting process for new sites, which can take more than a year for approval. Through her efforts, she has identified and resolved various bottlenecks, streamlining procedures and reducing delays by 20% over the past two years.

On a personal level, Carla has exhibited remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. Diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in December 2024, she is currently preparing for a transplant. Despite these challenges, she continues to approach life and work with a positive mindset, maintaining her daily routine and remaining committed to her professional responsibilities.

Inspiring Future Generations

Looking forward, Carla’s ambitions remain focused on expanding network coverage and encouraging more women to pursue careers in telecommunications. She observes a growing number of women entering the industry, a testament to the difference she has made. Her advice to young women is to remain fearless, regardless of the gender dynamics in their chosen field. She encourages them to believe in their abilities and seize the opportunities available, emphasising the importance of nurturing ambitious and confident young women to become future leaders.

Carla advocates for women to support one another and to pursue leadership roles, especially in male-dominated industries, believing in their strength and capability to succeed.

Balancing Professional Purpose and Parenthood

In addition to her professional achievements, Carla takes great pride in her role as a mother. She is a single parent to her 12-year-old son, Carter, who is passionate about tennis. The ability to balance motherhood, company leadership, and frequent travel is a source of personal satisfaction and fulfilment for her.

Looking ahead, Carla’s aspirations centre on maintaining her health, being a supportive mother, and continuing to excel in her career. She remains committed to travelling for work and performing at her best, driven by both personal and professional purpose.