Rashika Reddy: A Journey of Leadership, Empowerment, and Inspiration

Introduction

Rashika Reddy, manager of Coastal Farmers Eshowe, has built a remarkable 21-year career in the agricultural sector, a journey defined by perseverance, leadership, and a passion for empowering others. Coastal Farmers, a proudly established agricultural cooperative, will celebrate its 80th anniversary next year, marking eight decades of dedication, growth, and service to the farming community. The company supports a diverse agricultural environment, working closely with both large commercial and small-scale emerging farmers across KwaZulu-Natal.

“Our business serves the farming sector with a wide range of agricultural inputs, including chemicals, fertilisers, animal feeds, and general farm supplies,” Rashika explained. “We work with cane, macadamia, and mixed-crop farmers, from Mtubatuba in the north, right down to Port Edward and Port Shepstone in the south.”

Professional Growth and Career Path

Rashika’s journey with Coastal Farmers began at just 21 years old. “It was my third job, and I wanted to grow within a company where I could feel grounded and appreciated,” she recalled. Starting as a sales assistant at the Eshowe branch, her determination quickly set her apart. “After only six months, I was transferred to the Gingindlovu branch, where I was trained as an assistant manager by the person who is now my regional manager. As the years went by, I was promoted back to Eshowe as assistant manager and later became branch manager at Nkwaleni, inland near Melmoth. I managed that branch for five years before moving to the larger Eshowe branch in 2015, where I continue to serve today.”

For Rashika, each milestone represented more than a professional achievement; it reflected personal growth. “I’ve always wanted to be the chief executive officer of my own company,” she said confidently. “I love business, and I love being in boardrooms. Women belong in spaces of influence and decision-making. We are powerful and capable of transforming any environment we step into.”

Rooted in Family Values

Rashika credits her grandparents as her greatest inspiration. “I was raised by my grandmother and grandfather from the time I was a day old. They taught me values that still guide me today and that I now pass on to my daughter,” she shared. “My grandfather taught me to be outspoken, resilient, and to never settle for less. It’s a pity he isn’t here to witness my achievements because I know he would have been so proud. Today, I can confidently say I am a woman of substance and worth.”

Impact and Leadership in the Farming Community

At Coastal Farmers, Rashika has forged strong connections within the farming community. “Many of my clients own multiple farms and rely on me for advice and support. I also take pride in leading and empowering my team, inspiring them to grow and take on leadership roles. Seeing my staff develop into capable leaders is one of my proudest achievements.”

Her dedication has earned her several accolades, including the Cedric Knight Trophy for top sales performance and Top Performer 2010. “Throughout my career, I’ve placed first, second, and third in both sales and expense management,” she said. “These achievements remind me that consistency and hard work always pay off.”

Pageantry and Personal Empowerment

In 2023, Rashika took a bold step into a new space by entering the Haut Monde Mrs India Worldwide pageant held in Dubai. “I wanted to explore something more feminine,” she said with a smile. “I competed with 109 women from across the globe and was crowned the South African Country Winner. It was a phenomenal experience that reinforced my belief in the strength of women.”

Her pageant journey continued in 2024 when she participated in the Supreme Queen Global Earth Africa pageant in Johannesburg, where she earned the title of Second Princess. She now serves as an Alumni Ambassador for the Supreme Queen Group. “Pageantry helped me discover my strength and substance as a woman,” she reflected. “For a long time, I was told what I couldn’t do or where I didn’t belong. But I learned to build my character and confidence. Today, I know that women are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to; we define our own worth.”

Advocacy, Community Service, and Personal Brand

Beyond her corporate and pageantry pursuits, Rashika is also a motivational speaker, leadership and development coach, and philanthropist. In 2023, she launched a period poverty initiative to support rural schools around Eshowe. “Helping young girls access basic hygiene products is something close to my heart,” she explained. “It’s about restoring dignity and ensuring that no girl misses school because of her period.” Her message to others is both powerful and personal: “Go after your dreams and never let anyone’s disbelief define your limits. When you believe in yourself and push through barriers, you will discover your strength and become a powerhouse that no one can take away from you.”

Inspiring Confidence Through Fashion and Movement

In addition to her work and advocacy, Rashika is developing her personal brand, Atelier Rashika, a clothing and makeup line designed to inspire confidence in women. “My dream is to build a globally recognised brand that celebrates beauty and self-assurance,” she shared. “It’s not just about glitz and glamour, it’s about transformation. When a woman wears my design or uses my makeup, I want her to feel powerful and connected to my story.”

Rashika also finds balance through movement in community. “I’m a Zumba instructor,” she laughed. “There are days when I walk into class exhausted after work, but as soon as I see the women in the room, I draw energy from them. It is not just a fitness class. It is a space where women come together, support one another, and remind each other that we are strong. We leave feeling uplifted.”

Reflections and Gratitude

As she reflects on her journey, Rashika feels gratitude for the women who walk alongside her. “It is such an honour to be among women who smile, empower, and motivate each other,” she said. “We are resilient, and we continue to climb higher together.”