BUILDING COMMUNITY AT RICHMOND CORNER: THE JOURNEY OF TRICIA NXUMALO
In the vibrant landscape of retail management, Tricia Nxumalo has carved out a unique niche for herself as the Centre Manager of Richmond Corner in Cape Town. With a background in industrial psychology, Tricia combines her passion for people with her professional expertise to foster a sense of community and connection in her role.
Tricia’s academic journey began with a degree in industrial psychology—a choice driven by her fascination with applied thinking. Although unsure of her career path, her desire to work closely with people in a corporate environment became the guiding force behind her decisions. Her career kicked off unexpectedly with an internship at an airport, where she discovered her love for retail, people, and property. This formative experience not only shaped her professional identity but also ignited her passion for the dynamic world of management.
The transition from her hometown in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) to Cape Town was a significant step for Tricia. She relocated when an opportunity arose to work with a well-respected company, eager to continue her career growth in a new environment. This move proved pivotal, as it set the stage for her current role at Richmond Corner.
For Tricia, being a Centre Manager goes beyond the title; it embodies a commitment to stability and community. “A center represents a place everyone can rely on,” she explains. “Management means working with people, watching them grow, and learning from them in the process.” Her dedication to fostering a supportive environment is evident in her daily interactions with colleagues, tenants, and the broader community.
One of the aspects she enjoys most about her role is the collaborative spirit at Richmond Corner. The relationships she builds with her colleagues, the tenants and the community enhance her work experience, making each day fulfilling. However, like any job, it comes with challenges. Tricia acknowledges that being on call can be demanding, yet she remains undeterred in her mission to support those around her.
Tricia firmly believes that her role carries a responsibility to the community. She sees it as essential to create an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels part of something bigger. By engaging with local businesses and fostering connections, she aims to enhance the overall community experience at Richmond Corner.
If she weren’t managing the center, Tricia has a whimsical dream of being a florist. “Flowers bring happiness to those who receive them,” she shares. This sentiment reflects her overall philosophy—she strives to spread joy and positivity in every interaction. The creativity involved in floristry also resonates with her personal values, highlighting her desire to bring beauty and happiness into the world.
Having served as a property administrator before her promotion to Centre Manager in June 2024, Tricia’s journey illustrates her dedication and growth within the industry. She attributes her success to key traits that align with her role: strong people skills, patience, and a straightforward approach to problem-solving. “What you see is what you get,” she says, emphasizing her commitment to consistency and hard work.
In her role at Richmond Corner, Tricia Nxumalo is not just managing a retail center; she is cultivating a vibrant community. Through her passion for people and her unwavering dedication to fostering connections, she continues to make a lasting impact in the lives of those around her. As she looks to the future, Tricia’s vision for Richmond Corner remains clear: to build a place where everyone feels welcome and valued.