Cover Svida Alisjahbana, CEO of GCM Group and chairman of Jakarta Fashion Week
Svida Alisjahbana, CEO of GCM Group and chairman of Jakarta Fashion Week
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Svida Alisjahbana, CEO of GCM Group and chairman of Jakarta Fashion Week talks about her sporting pursuits and their impact personally and professionally
Sport can lead to success on the global stage, but this is not limited to the pitch, field, court or track—having a sporting background has the potential to lead to business success too.
Studies have shown that the vast majority—more than 90 per cent, according to a study by consultants EY and women’s sports platform espnW—of women in C-suite positions played sport. Taking up sport later in life can also have a positive impact professionally.
To tie in with Paris 2024, our limited series Top of Her Game sees women currently or formerly in C-suite positions in a range of industries discuss their sporting journeys, the role of sport in their lives, and why they would encourage other women and girls to pursue sport. Here, Svida Alisjahbana, CEO of GCM Group and chairman of Jakarta Fashion Week, opens up.
Above Svida Alisjahbana before the Chicago Marathon in 2018
Above And after completing it
Svida Alisjahbana before the Chicago Marathon in 2018
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Have you always been interested in sport or did it come later? What's your sporting journey?
Sports were a part of my life from a young age, primarily through light aerobics and strength training. However, my true passion for endurance sports ignited unexpectedly on my 48th birthday. Since then, my affinity for running and distance swimming has flourished.
On that particular birthday, my twin sons, who were 14 at the time, proposed a change in our usual routine. While we typically attended a Sunday morning car-free day together—them on longboards and me on my bike—they asked me to drop them off but not to accompany them. Left to my own devices, I opted to run around a nearby stadium. It was a modest start, more of a brisk walk, completing 5 km in 50 minutes. During that run, I reflected on turning 48 and the upcoming milestone of my 50s, which didn't feel like a midlife crisis but rather an opportunity. I felt invigorated, younger than my mother seemed at my age, and decided that running could be more than a pastime—it could be a goal. This 5 km run marked the beginning of my running career.
My journey has been closely tied to the Young Presidents' Organization (YPO). My first 10 km race took place at the [Angkor Wat International Half Marathon] in Siem Reap, Cambodia, a side tour organised by YPO friends. This event led me to a running club in Jakarta's Senayan Stadium [now Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium], where I now serve as chair. My first half marathon was in Bali at age 49, organised by another YPO member, and my first full marathon followed at 50 in Istanbul, a trip organised by a YPO friend.
Inspired by my peers, I set a goal to complete the six World Marathon Majors by the age of 60. I began in Berlin with some YPO friends, then moved on to Chicago, where I entered through the lottery. In London, I participated through a YPO-owned sports travel agent, coordinated by Ted Kennedy from Achieve Racing. My New York Marathon experience was particularly meaningful, as I ran to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities, raising funds to build a transient house near Sanglah Hospital in Bali [now Prof. Ngoerah General Hospital]. This cause was close to my heart, helping parents from distant Indonesian islands whose children were receiving medical care. I was fortunate to win the lottery for the Tokyo Marathon in 2020, although it was postponed to March 2023 due to Covid-19. Now, I look forward to running the Boston Marathon, aiming to secure a charity spot as I turn 60 end of this year, which will complete my challenge.
What are your current sports of choice? Why do you enjoy these sports in particular?
In addition to running, I've diversified my activities to maintain overall health. I began competing in aquathlons, combining a 2 km swim with a 5 km run, in the stunning islands of northern Indonesia. I also integrated Bikram yoga, strength training, and Pilates into my routine to ensure a well-rounded fitness regime. These activities not only enhance my physical endurance but also bring a holistic balance to my sporting journey.
I particularly enjoy running because it not only challenges me physically but also provides a sense of freedom and mental clarity. The combination of strength training and Pilates enhances my running performance by improving my core strength and flexibility. Swimming offers a refreshing change of pace and low-impact exercise, which is excellent for recovery days. Yoga, both Bikram and Yin, helps in developing deeper levels of mental focus and bodily awareness, which are essential for my overall well-being and endurance in other sports.
Do you prefer individual or team sports and why?
I have a strong preference for individual sports. Engaging in activities like running and swimming provides me with a valuable opportunity for "me time". These moments are meditative and offer mental clarity, which I find incredibly rejuvenating. When I arrive at the office, I feel mentally charged and ready to tackle the day’s challenges. This personal time not only enhances my physical health but also sharpens my mental focus, making it an essential part of my daily routine.
When/how often and where do you do sport?
I prefer sports in the morning and outdoors, although Jakarta's conditions can be quite challenging. Due to occasional high pollution levels, I sometimes find it necessary to switch my activities to late afternoon after work or going to the gym. This flexibility allows me to maintain my fitness routine despite the environmental constraints.
How do you make sure you fit sport into your schedule? Any tips or strategies on how to do so as a busy executive?
I start my day early, waking up at 5:15 am to begin my workout by 6:00 am. Additionally, I keep my car equipped like a "moving home", ready with all the necessary gear to engage in sports whenever time permits. Having a private shower room is also a significant bonus.
How has/does sport help you personally and professionally?
Sport has had a profound impact on both my personal and professional life. On a personal level, taking up running has significantly improved my health, even alleviating the migraines I used to suffer from. Professionally, the mental clarity I gain from regular physical activity has been invaluable, particularly as I navigate the transition from perimenopause to menopause—a journey that has been smoother for me than for some of my peers. Additionally, sports provide me opportunities to meet new people, travel with friends, and continually challenge myself, enriching my life in countless ways.
Do you have a proudest sporting moment or achievement?
I don't have a single proudest sporting moment or achievement that stands out above the rest. Each marathon I complete requires extensive preparation and dedication. Whenever I cross the finish line, my immediate thought is a grateful, "Thank God it's over". But soon after, I find myself wondering, "What's next?" This ongoing cycle of setting and achieving new goals is what I cherish most about my sporting journey.
Why do you think people who play sport are more likely to achieve in the workplace and how do you think sport has contributed to your journey to CEO?
From my experience, the physical and mental clarity provided by regular athletic activity has been invaluable. Maintaining fitness has kept me energised and resilient—essential traits for any leader.
Why would you encourage girls and women to take up sport?
I strongly encourage girls and women to take up sports, especially as they navigate through different life stages. For me, discovering sports in middle age has been incredibly beneficial. It has helped me manage hormonal changes and weight, both of which are common challenges during this time due to a slowing metabolism. Engaging in regular physical activity has not only been a powerful tool for maintaining physical health but has also boosted my mental well-being.
For younger girls, sports provide positive emotional boosts and are a great way to make new friends. I've read that joining a sports club can be more effective for socialising and even dating than using apps. In essence, sports offer a holistic benefit to both physical and social aspects of life, making them especially valuable for girls and women at any age.
What are you most excited about for Paris 2024?
I am genuinely excited about the Paris 2024 Olympics and particularly looking forward to seeing new records being set in running and swimming. Additionally, there's a personal connection that heightens my excitement: a young woman who began her running journey at my club will be participating in the marathon in Paris. Seeing her progress and compete on such a prestigious platform is incredibly thrilling and inspiring.
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About
Rachel Duffell is regional content director for Power & Purpose, including Front & Female, and former regional content director for Tatler Dining. She is a journalist and editor who has been covering people, gender, impact, leadership, culture and lifestyle for more than 15 years.
