From farm kid to financial strategist, Debora Bekker reflects on a life shaped by independence, integrity and quiet leadership. She opens up about balancing motherhood with high-stakes banking, and the women who paved the way. What does invisible leadership look like? And why is doing the right thing more powerful than being right? How do you lead a team before you’re given the title? Find out in episode 12 of the Why She Leads Podcast.

From aspiring actress to finance powerhouse, Marilyn Maki reflects on the mentors who shaped her, the courage to own her greatness early and the quiet strength of introverted leadership. How do you thrive in a world that never expected you to lead? What happens when success arrives too soon? And how do you keep chasing yourself forward? Find out in episode 11 of the Why She Leads Podcast.

Blending accounting with artistry, strategy with soul, Bulelwa Tetyana-Madonsela reveals how staying true to herself transformed her leadership path. What happens when you stop apologising for being “too much”? What can a CFO learn from drama class? And how can women lead without leaving other women behind? Find out in episode 10 of the ‘Why She Leads’ Podcast.

How does a lawyer stay human in high-stakes dealmaking? Sharon Brighton reflects on 15 years at Standard Bank, the importance of failure, and how to redefine work-life balance. From mentoring future leaders to fighting for financial inclusion, she’s proof that leadership is as much about heart as it is about hustle. Get it all in episode 9 of the Why She Leads’ Podcast.

A trailblazer in Nigeria’s financial sector, Joyce Dimkpa shares how curiosity, courage and continuous learning shaped her path from medical science to leading major portfolios in banking. What does fearless leadership look like in male-dominated industries? How do you lead through loss? And how does raising twins reshape the way you mentor, lead and grow? Find out in episode 8 of the Why She Leads Podcast.

A lifelong learner, Marlene Pillay’s unique blend of grit, ambition, and empathetic leadership have shaped her career as a powerhouse in global commercial property finance. How does she balance the high-stakes challenges of CIB while taking time to empower the next generation to grow? 

A respected leader in energy and infrastructure, Kate Weldon shares how she built a global career while staying rooted in Africa. What does it take to lead billion-rand deals with calm confidence? How has motherhood shaped her leadership lens? And how do you silence self-doubt to show up fully—at work, at home and in your own story?  Find out in Episode 6 of the Why She Leads Podcast.

A dynamic leader respected for her integrity and grit, Asya Ntshobodwana shares her rise from township to executive leadership. How is she redefining leadership as a woman in business? How has empathy defined her leadership style? What does it take to overcome self-limiting beliefs, to raise your hand and seize the opportunities you deserve? Find out in Episode 5 of the Why She Leads podcast.

From humble beginnings in the villages of Eastern Cape to becoming a force for change, Thandiwe Legwaila’s journey is marked by resilience, purpose, and a passion for uplifting women. How has she harnessed imperfection to build strength? And how is her story inspiring the leaders of tomorrow? Find out in Episode 4 of the Why She Leads Podcast.

After 20 years as an attorney, Ashleigh Pledger recently transitioned and was appointed Chief Operating Officer in Transaction Banking within Corporate and Investment Banking. How did her mentors help shape her leadership style, and what advice does she have for those who will follow in her footsteps?

Zen Dlamini’s strong convictions and commitment to authenticity have made her one of her industry’s most respected leaders and mentors. But as a woman in the Standard Bank CIB space, how did she find her voice, and who were the people encouraging her to use it and be heard? Find out in Episode 2 of the Why She Leads Podcast.

From the dusty streets of the Eastern Cape to the finance world of Sandton, discover how Lindeka Dzedze has forged a career as one of Africa’s powerhouse dealmakers. Who are the people who have inspired her success, and who has she inspired to follow in her footsteps?