This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Parliamentarian Ms Sanny Ndhlovu, Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Financial Management of Parliament, Chairperson of the Select Committee on Finance, representing the African National Congress. Ms Ndhlovu shares insights from her extensive career in governance, financial oversight, and political leadership.

Key Themes Discussed:

• Journey into Politics: Ms Ndhlovu reflects on her personal and professional journey, from joining the ANC at just 17 years old to becoming a leader in financial oversight. Her career trajectory focussed on treasury roles spanning local, regional and national portfolios. She highlights the importance of perseverance and mentorship in navigating the political landscape. She maintains standing firm to your beliefs and being patient in pursuit of your ambitions.

• Women in Leadership: Addressing the challenges women face in politics, especially when undermined by men. She discusses overcoming gender bias, the need for self-belief, and the importance of policy knowledge in strengthening women’s roles in governance. Additionally, women need to support other women in office.

• Fighting Corruption and Ensuring Accountability: Ms Ndhlovu emphasizes her commitment to financial transparency, detailing her role in uncovering corruption during her time in local government and the necessity of upholding ethical governance in her current work in Parliament.

• Economic Empowerment and Gender Inclusion: She highlights key legislative efforts to support women’s financial inclusion, such as the Public Procurement Act, which prioritizes opportunities for women, youth, and people with disabilities.

• Future Policy Priorities: She shares her vision for policies that further empower women, advocating for increased financial literacy, economic participation, and continued transformation in governance structures.

• Stockvels and Community-Based Financial Literacy: Ms Ndhlovu passionately discusses the role of stockvels in fostering financial independence for women, emphasizing the importance of grassroots financial management and cooperative savings initiatives that show how money creates value, such as using it as capital to create a business. She demonstrates how these skills benefit individuals, families and communities and build trust in financial management and networks.

• Advice for Young Women in Politics and Finance: Encouraging young women to pursue leadership roles, she underscores the value of education, self-belief, listening, focus, patience, respect, and strategic financial management as tools for success.

In closing Ms Ndhlovu leaves listeners with a powerful message, that women must believe in themselves, understand financial management, and remain committed to ethical leadership. She stresses that mentorship, community engagement, and continuous learning are key to advancing gender equality in politics, finance and life.

Tune in for more.