Just got back from South Africa - where i spent an amazing week meeting amazing people.

I was invited to join a group of women known collectively as the 'Leading Women Entrepreneurs of the World.' South Africa was to be the place where they formally inducted me into their gang. Crikey - a cracking offer - and very humbling.

A group of 300 women who between them have built businesses that turnover $255 Billion and employ more than 500,000 people. Their passion for what they do and their love of life was evident. For me the most remarkable thing was the wake up call to meet women from 56 countries all facing the same issues - all working hard - all having fears - tough times - good times. To get into the group you have to have built a bsnss - but most importantly you have to show how you have used what you know and have to contribute to the wider community. I look forward to seeing more of these amazing and warm women - the support that the group offers is going to be very important to me - and I hope I can give back too.

Every year the group meet in a different country and this year South Africa had asked for the chance to host the show - and boy did they!

We were treated to an insight into the issues of SA - we met the leaders and we met the women who are creating the future. We also had a rare chance to spend time on Robben Island with Ahmed Kathrada (Nelson Mandelas friend). Ahmed was locked up with Nelson Mandela - they were both involved in the struggle. It was a life experiance - I had my eyes opened - I began to understand just a little what some people had to go through for the things they believed in. It was a special priviledge to spend time with him.

All in all my business life has given me the most fantastic opportunities to meet amazing people.

I would say that this is definately the top 'perk of the job' - Better than winning the lottery (as people say!)