{"id":21439,"date":"2025-08-08T13:49:08","date_gmt":"2025-08-08T11:49:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=21439"},"modified":"2026-03-12T10:04:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T08:04:39","slug":"top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 South African Women in Finance &amp; Investment"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>In a country where economic inclusion is vital to long-term progress, South African women are rising as trailblazers in the finance and investment sector. Whether you&#8217;re a student exploring career paths, a young professional looking for inspiration, or a job seeker aiming to pivot into finance, the success stories of these women offer valuable lessons, motivation, and direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-amp-investment\">Top 10 South African Women in Finance &amp; Investment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide highlights ten influential South African women who have made a name for themselves in finance and investment\u2014leading major firms, changing policies, and mentoring the next generation. We\u2019ll explore their achievements, what you can learn from them, and how you can follow in their footsteps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1108802184\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-nicky-newton-king-breaking-the-jse-glass-ceiling\">1. <strong>Nicky Newton-King \u2013 Breaking the JSE Glass Ceiling<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Former CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE)<\/strong><br>Nicky Newton-King made history as the first woman CEO of the JSE. She led the exchange from 2012 to 2019, steering it through regulatory changes and modernisation. With a legal background and financial acumen, Newton-King helped transform the JSE into one of the world\u2019s most advanced stock exchanges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lessons from Nicky<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Law and finance make a powerful combination.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Corporate governance is key to long-term investment confidence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Newton-King faced immense resistance in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Despite this, her focus on regulatory reforms and tech-driven solutions helped place the JSE on the global map.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A 2018 <strong>Financial Times<\/strong> interview highlighted her leadership in transforming South Africa into a hub for emerging market investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651246.png\" alt=\"Nicky Newton-King \" class=\"wp-image-21441\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651246.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651246-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651246-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651246-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651246-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-fikile-mbhokota-championing-development-finance\">2. <strong>Fikile Mbhokota \u2013 Championing Development Finance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CEO of the National Empowerment Fund (NEF)<\/strong><br>Fikile Mbhokota took the reins of the NEF in 2023, with a focus on supporting black entrepreneurs and ensuring access to capital for previously disadvantaged communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why She Stands Out<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Proven leadership in development finance institutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Advocacy for gender-responsive funding strategies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Mbhokota has worked tirelessly to advocate for gender-responsive financing, a field that was historically overlooked. She\u2019s had to challenge traditional funding systems to create more inclusive structures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In an interview with <strong>Business Day<\/strong> (2023), Mbhokota emphasized the importance of inclusive finance to reduce wealth inequality in South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651423.png\" alt=\"Fikile Mbhokota\" class=\"wp-image-21442\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651423.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651423-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651423-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651423-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651423-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-716665422\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-nontobeko-ndhlazi-empowering-women-in-asset-management\">3. <strong>Nontobeko Ndhlazi \u2013 Empowering Women in Asset Management<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Chief Operating Officer at Mianzo Asset Management<\/strong><br>With over a decade in investment operations, Nontobeko is known for building scalable financial systems. Her role ensures that client funds are handled efficiently and transparently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip for Aspiring COOs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Specialising in compliance and operations can lead to executive roles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on technology in finance\u2014it&#8217;s the future of asset management.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Ndhlazi faced many barriers as one of the few black women in senior asset management roles. Her focus on compliance and tech-driven finance helped bridge gaps in a traditionally conservative industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Forbes Africa<\/strong> (2022) highlighted her role in modernising Mianzo\u2019s client funds system, improving operational transparency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651711.png\" alt=\"Nontobeko Ndhlazi\" class=\"wp-image-21444\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651711.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651711-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651711-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651711-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651711-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-phumzile-langeni-a-voice-in-public-and-private-sectors\">4. <strong>Phumzile Langeni \u2013 A Voice in Public and Private Sectors<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Special Investment Envoy to the President &amp; Chair of Imperial Logistics<\/strong><br>Phumzile Langeni has straddled both private equity and government advisory roles, bringing much-needed expertise to South Africa\u2019s economic recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Notable Achievements<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Advocate for women-led investment platforms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Direct involvement in South Africa\u2019s economic recovery plans.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Langeni\u2019s path hasn\u2019t been easy\u2014she often faced pressure as a woman of colour in both private equity and government circles, yet her voice continues to be pivotal in shaping policies and economic recovery strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Phumzile Langeni\u2019s work in both sectors was discussed in <strong>The Sunday Times<\/strong> (2021) as key to the government\u2019s economic recovery strategy post-pandemic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651852.png\" alt=\"Phumzile Langeni\" class=\"wp-image-21445\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651852.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651852-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651852-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651852-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754651852-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-973703198\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-fikile-sibiya-digital-banking-trailblazer\">5. <strong>Fikile Sibiya \u2013 Digital Banking Trailblazer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CFO at TymeBank<\/strong><br>As one of the youngest women to become CFO of a digital bank in South Africa, Fikile\u2019s background in auditing and tech-driven finance has helped TymeBank expand accessible banking to all citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Digital finance and fintech roles are booming\u2014consider courses in data analytics and blockchain.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Fikile\u2019s rise to CFO came at a time when digital banking was still in its infancy. She faced resistance from traditional banking sectors but persevered by focusing on TymeBank\u2019s mission to provide accessible financial solutions for the unbanked population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In an interview with <strong>TechCentral<\/strong> (2022), Fikile discussed how TymeBank&#8217;s growth was fueled by digital-first financial solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652053.png\" alt=\"Fikile Sibiya\" class=\"wp-image-21446\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652053.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652053-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652053-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652053-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652053-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-nneile-nkholise-innovating-through-venture-capital\">6. <strong>Nneile Nkholise \u2013 Innovating Through Venture Capital<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Founder of 3DIMO, Backed by Venture Investors<\/strong><br>A mechanical engineer by training, Nneile Nkholise has earned funding for her tech ventures from both local and global investors. Her startup uses AI to improve animal health in agriculture, bridging tech and agriculture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Inspiration for Entrepreneurs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Venture capital is accessible if your business solves real problems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Technical skills can transition into finance through innovation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Nneile faced skepticism as a woman in tech. Her innovative approach to combining AI and agriculture has since silenced her critics and attracted major venture capital support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>VentureBurn<\/strong> (2021) covered Nkholise\u2019s innovative approach, highlighting her as a rising star in South Africa\u2019s venture capital scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652220.png\" alt=\"Nneile Nkholise\" class=\"wp-image-21449\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652220.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652220-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652220-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652220-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652220-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1901427805\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-lerato-molebatsi-corporate-finance-and-policy-leadership\">7. <strong>Lerato Molebatsi \u2013 Corporate Finance and Policy Leadership<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Chair of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA)<\/strong><br>Lerato has spent her career focusing on financial regulation, with an emphasis on investor protection and sustainable finance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>FSCA&#8217;s Role<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oversees non-banking financial institutions (pensions, insurance, etc.).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regulates financial advisors, credit providers, and investment platforms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Lerato has been instrumental in advocating for better protection for consumers in South Africa\u2019s complex financial markets, often facing resistance from entrenched industry players.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lerato\u2019s work with the FSCA was discussed in <strong>The Mail &amp; Guardian<\/strong> (2022) as crucial for stabilising South Africa\u2019s financial markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652670.png\" alt=\"Lerato Molebatsi\" class=\"wp-image-21453\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652670.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652670-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652670-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652670-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652670-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-mamokgethi-phakeng-driving-financial-literacy\">8. <strong>Mamokgethi Phakeng \u2013 Driving Financial Literacy<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Former UCT Vice-Chancellor and Advocate for Black Women in Finance<\/strong><br>Mamokgethi Phakeng, known for her academic leadership, has been deeply involved in financial education initiatives aimed at empowering the youth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Educational Impact<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Financial literacy programs in high schools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supporting STEM students with scholarships and mentorship.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Phakeng has worked tirelessly to overcome gender and racial barriers in higher education and finance, creating avenues for underrepresented youth to thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>UCT News<\/strong> (2021) highlighted Phakeng\u2019s financial literacy initiatives, showing her commitment to empowering South Africa\u2019s youth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652917.png\" alt=\"Mamokgethi Phakeng\" class=\"wp-image-21457\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652917.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652917-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652917-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652917-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754652917-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-4291560581\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-9-gloria-serobe-pioneer-of-women-s-investment-empowerment\">9. <strong>Gloria Serobe \u2013 Pioneer of Women\u2019s Investment Empowerment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Founding Member of WIPHOLD (Women Investment Portfolio Holdings)<\/strong><br>Gloria Serobe has led efforts to bring black South African women into mainstream investment through WIPHOLD, a company that owns stakes in major firms like Sasol and Distell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key Contribution<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Proved that group investment can create generational wealth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blended activism with structured finance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>Serobe\u2019s leadership came at a time when women, particularly black women, were largely excluded from the formal investment sector. She faced many hurdles, but her success has paved the way for future generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Financial Mail<\/strong> (2020) discussed WIPHOLD\u2019s impact on empowering black women investors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653044.png\" alt=\"Top 10 South African Women in Finance &amp; Investment\" class=\"wp-image-21461\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653044.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653044-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653044-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653044-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653044-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-basani-maluleke-youngest-black-woman-ceo-in-sa-banking\">10. <strong>Basani Maluleke \u2013 Youngest Black Woman CEO in SA Banking<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Former CEO of African Bank<\/strong><br>Basani Maluleke became the CEO of African Bank at age 40, transforming the bank\u2019s image by focusing on inclusive products for South Africa\u2019s marginalized communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Quick Insight<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A law degree can lead to banking leadership.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply for leadership roles early in your career.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Challenges Overcome<\/strong><br>As the youngest black woman CEO in South Africa\u2019s banking sector, Basani faced significant challenges in leading a large financial institution, including overcoming skepticism about her capabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Business Report<\/strong> (2021) focused on her leadership at African Bank, particularly her contributions to inclusive finance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653164.png\" alt=\"Basani Maluleke\" class=\"wp-image-21465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653164.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653164-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653164-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653164-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/top-10-south-african-women-in-finance-investment-1754653164-390x220.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1177400210\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-follow-in-their-footsteps\"><strong>How to Follow in Their Footsteps<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Start With Education<\/strong><br>Pursue degrees in finance, accounting, economics, or data science. Institutions like UJ, Stellenbosch Business School, and WITS offer relevant qualifications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Seek Mentorship<\/strong><br>Platforms like <strong>GirlCode<\/strong>, <strong>Women in Finance Network<\/strong>, and <strong>AWCA<\/strong> offer access to female mentors who can help guide your career journey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gain Real Experience<\/strong><br>Apply for internships at <strong>Absa<\/strong>, <strong>Old Mutual<\/strong>, <strong>Allan Gray<\/strong>, and <strong>SEFA<\/strong>. Consider shadowing a professional through industry workshops or networking events.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs-south-african-women-in-finance\"><strong>FAQs: South African Women in Finance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Q: Can I work in finance without a degree?<\/strong><br>A: Yes, but a diploma, certificate, or learnership is typically needed for credibility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Q: What bursaries are available for finance studies?<\/strong><br>A: Check <strong>NSFAS<\/strong>, <strong>Old Mutual Education Trust<\/strong>, and <strong>Investec Bursary Programmes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Q: How do I get started in investment banking?<\/strong><br>A: Begin with a <strong>BCom<\/strong> degree, then pursue <strong>CFA<\/strong> accreditation or internships in corporate finance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Also check: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/10-south-african-women-in-stem-who-are-breaking-barriers\/\">10 South African Women in STEM Who Are Breaking Barriers<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ten women featured in this article have proven that there\u2019s no one path to success in finance and investment\u2014whether it\u2019s corporate banking, venture capital, or regulatory bodies, there\u2019s space for more diverse voices. The sector needs your unique perspective, and the resources to help you get there are more available than ever.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the inspiring stories of 10 influential South African women leading the charge in finance and investment. Learn from their achievements, challenges, and how you can follow in their footsteps.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":21469,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"Discover the inspiring stories of 10 influential South African women leading the charge in finance and investment. Learn from their achievements, challenges, and how you can follow in their footsteps.\n\n","footnotes":""},"categories":[36],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-21439","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-jobs"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21439","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21439"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21439\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21470,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21439\/revisions\/21470"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21469"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21439"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21439"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21439"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}