Spotlight on excellence: Sonia Laatoe on Journey Management in Africa

With a remarkable blend of military discipline, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of Africa’s complex security landscape, Sonia Laatoe brings an unwavering commitment to safety and operational excellence to her role as Journey Management Manager, Africa at GardaWorld Security.

Based in Cape Town, Sonia oversees the strategic planning, execution, and real-time coordination of client journeys across the continent.

Whether it’s personnel, vehicles, or valuable equipment on the move, Sonia ensures that every journey is secure, efficient, and compliant with the highest safety standards.

Her work directly supports GardaWorld Security’s Journey Management Services, which provide organizations operating in high-risk regions with the confidence and protection needed to move freely.

With operations spanning vast, diverse, and often unpredictable terrain, the stakes are high—but Sonia’s meticulous approach and sharp decision-making consistently deliver peace of mind for our clients.

From defence force to private sector: a career rooted in purpose

Before joining GardaWorld Security – Africa in July 2024, Sonia spent over 13 years serving in the South African National Defence Force, where she honed her leadership in complex operational environments. Her final role as a Directing Staff involved designing training protocols, developing learning programs and preparing officers for their senior staff appointments. 

Prior to that, she served as an Operations Officer in the Maritime Reaction Squadron, supporting executive decision-making, taking on operational support responsibilities and contributing to joint military operations.

Her early years in uniform—first as a Naval Sailor, then rising through the ranks to Platoon Commander—equipped her with the resilience, strategic thinking, and collaborative problem-solving that define her leadership today.

“The military taught me how to remain calm under pressure and lead with clarity,” Sonia reflects. “It also gave me a deep respect for structure and accountability—two values I carry as guiding principles.”

Bringing global perspective to local challenges

Sonia’s academic journey is as impressive as her professional path. She holds a Master of Science in Maritime Affairs from the prestigious World Maritime University, where she explored the role of capacity building, cooperation and corporate social responsibility in securing a sustainable ocean economy. During her studies, she also served as Secretary and Events Coordinator for the African-Caribbean Students' Association, reinforcing her belief in teamwork, representation, and inclusivity.

She also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Military Science, with a focus on Security and Africa Studies from Stellenbosch University. This dual lens—academic and operational—allows her to navigate Africa’s risk landscape with both strategic and situational awareness.

“Every country, every region presents different challenges,” says Sonia. “But the one constant is the need for proactive risk mitigation and informed decision-making. That’s what makes this work meaningful—and impactful.”

Leading with empathy and excellence

In her current role, Sonia is responsible not only for managing risk but also for building trust, both with clients and her internal teams. She emphasizes clear communication, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous learning as key ingredients to operational success.

Her colleagues describe her as an inspiring leader who combines sharp intelligence with genuine care for people’s safety. Whether coordinating a complex multi-vehicle escort or mentoring a new team member, Sonia brings intention and heart to everything she does.

Looking ahead

As GardaWorld Security continues to expand its footprint across Africa, Sonia is playing a critical role in elevating the Journey Management standard on the continent. Her mission is clear: ensure every client journey—no matter how remote, routine, or high-risk—is conducted with the utmost professionalism and preparedness.

“We’re not just moving people and assets,” she says. “We’re enabling business continuity, safeguarding lives, and helping organizations thrive in some of the world’s most dynamic environments.”

GardaWorld Security is proud to spotlight Sonia Laatoe—a trailblazer, strategist, and security professional making a difference every day.

Learn more about GardaWorld Security’s Journey Management Services.