Industry heavyweights share messages
In celebration of Women’s Day tomorrow, this newsletter is dedicated to all the POWERFUL, unique and inspiring women in our industry.
Inspirational women have a purpose, they believe in what they are doing and are passionate, they have empathy and compassion, they encourage others, and they go after what they want.
In celebration of Women’s Month, FAnews spoke to a few inspiring women who shared their messages with other women working in this incredible industry.
A woman’s superpowers
Farzana Badat, Deputy Commissioner of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) believes that a woman’s superpowers are her authenticity, passion, and resilience.
With that in mind, she said that the industry is evolving rapidly. “This creates unprecedented opportunities for new, diverse, and creative voices to transform and shape the insurance landscape for future generations. Women bring unique perspectives, deep passion, and undeniable resilience. Together these have immense potential to catalyse and drive meaningful change in a sector where customers are increasingly looking for more innovative, sustainable, and trusted products and services to secure their financial well-being during periods of heightened economic uncertainty.”
“To the women in this industry, be guided by your passion, fuelled by your resilience, and be unafraid of embracing your authentic voice to help strengthen confidence in an already vital and thriving industry,” she concluded.
The power to shape your future
For Lelané Bezuidenhout CFP®, CEO of the Financial Planning Institute (FPI), she believes women have the power to shape their futures.
“The financial services industry is an incredible place of possibilities, stretching far and wide, and filled with endless potential. One must ask, how can you find the perfect opportunity that aligns with your unique aspirations? The answer lies in trusting the process, for your present position holds the power to shape your future and pave the way for where you'll stand in two decades,” she said.
“Remember, progress is achieved by embracing growth and seizing each day to learn something new. By diligently applying yourself, success is not a matter of mere luck, but a product of your unwavering commitment and honest work ethic,” she concluded.
Embrace the power that lies within you
“Dear Women in Insurance, I recently analysed the FIA membership base and was encouraged to find that we have 6 250 women registered on our database compared to 5 124 men. Most of the women are younger than 49 years of age. What was also heartening is that 1 635 of these women are between the ages of 50 and 59. These ladies are instrumental in providing mentorship and support for our younger ladies,” said Lizelle van der Merwe, Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Intermediaries Association of Southern Africa (FIA).
“The insurance industry has traditionally been male-dominated however, the landscape is gradually shifting, and more opportunities are emerging for women to excel and make their mark in the industry. Many organisations are actively promoting diversity and inclusion, creating an environment where women can succeed,” she continued.
“So, stay informed, seize opportunities, and embrace the power that lies within you. Don’t hesitate to take on a challenging role and demonstrate your abilities,” she concluded.
The power to break down barriers
Simphiwe Mtyali, President of the Insurance Institute of Gauteng (IIG) said all women in the re/insurance industry are intelligent, strong, and capable.
“You have worked hard to get where you are and deserve to thrive. You hold a unique perspective… regard this as an invaluable asset that should be shared with the world. You have the power to break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of women. This year for Women’s Day we are calling on all industry women to take up space, Phakama Ndlovukazi! You are a force to be reckoned with,” she stated.
Read the full article, with more inspiring messages shared by the CEO of
the Insurance Institute of South Africa, Thokozile Mahlangu, the President of the Gauteng Women in Insurance (GWII) and the CEO of the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), Viviene Pearson, in the FAnews August edition.
A few CEOs also share their messages to the women working in this incredible industry, with the names of must-read books they too believe are inspiring.
Writer’s Thoughts:
The month of August (not just Woman’s Day) presents an opportunity to think about how strong and unique we, as women, are. We have the power to shape our future and the power to break down barriers – we are passionate, authentic and resilient. We are POWERFUL and UNIQUE in our own little ways. Please comment below, interact with us on Twitter at @fanews_online or email me your thoughts [email protected]
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