17 March 2025
Elvina Hermans’ retail journey began in 2014, shortly after she matriculated. While pursuing studies in Business Management, her life took a different path, and she joined the Shoprite Group – the only retailer she was familiar with in her community – to earn a stable income and gain work experience.
Working at the tills at Shoprite Boksburg North, Hermans quickly made a name for herself with an exceptional scanning rate. Within three months, she advanced to the Money Market and then the Cash Office. By 2015, her leadership potential earned her a promotion to Trainee Manager, paving the way for roles like Administration Manager, Fresh Foods Manager, Branch Manager, and now as Divisional Fruit & Veg Manager for Usave’s Northern Division, which includes Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the North West.
“Elvina’s unwavering positive attitude and steadfast dedication certainly helped to advance her career as well as contribute to the broader success of the business. Her ability to consistently deliver excellence makes her an invaluable asset to the team, and a key factor in the progress of Usave’s Northern Division.”
- Johan Burger, Usave Divisional Manager
Elvina Hermans, Usave fruit & veg Divisional Manager.
She thrives on the hands-on aspects of her current role, from optimising store layouts and pricing to managing stock levels – all to ensure fresh, affordable produce for customers. “There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing you’ve made a difference – even if it is to only one customer’s life,” Hermans says.
As the first in her family to buy a home and a role model for her three siblings, Elvina’s story is one of resilience and determination. Her advice to people entering the retail industry is simple yet powerful: “Hard work is recognised and there’s no better place to grow.”
As Africa’s largest retailer and South Africa’s largest private sector employer, the Shoprite Group offers a variety of career pathways for individuals, especially youth, eager to build a rewarding career in retail.
Young people interested in retail careers are invited to explore the various opportunities available at the Group