Johannesburg — The 8th Annual SheInvests Conference concluded this weekend at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, cementing its position as South Africa’s leading platform for women in finance. Under the theme “Where Your Present and Future Meet,” the conference drew prominent leaders, investors, and innovators committed to equipping women with the skills and confidence to shape their financial futures.
The JSE revealed a sobering reality: only 6% of South Africans are financially prepared for retirement, underscoring the urgency of the discussions. Suzan Ramotshabi of ETFSA and Wendy Myers of @psgfinancialservices led key sessions on retirement readiness, offering practical frameworks for long-term wealth building.
One of the most anticipated speakers, @Bonang_M, international businesswoman and brand architect, shared personal strategies that guided her career: intentional decision-making, investing in knowledge, embracing risk, and building communities. “The decision to start is the most powerful choice you will make in your journey,” she told the audience, urging women to view themselves as their “own best investors.”
The conference also spotlighted resilience and adaptability. Nikki Bush, human potential expert and bestselling author, unpacked strategies for navigating unexpected challenges, while Professor Thuli Madonsela inspired delegates with a vision of inclusive leadership.
In addition, the JSE introduced “Architects of Influence: Women in Leadership”, a coffee-table book featuring visionary South African women leaders, including academic, corporate, and civic trailblazers. The publication, developed under the leadership of JSE Group CEO Leila Fourie, celebrates the journeys of women shaping South Africa’s economic and social transformation.
Sponsors including Old Mutual, L’Oréal Paris South Africa, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa, Turlov Family Office Securities, ETFSA, and Satrix helped deliver a high-impact programme, alongside exhibitors such as Harvey World Travel, Franc, SCoin, and Afrifocus. Entertainment came from comedian @celestentuli, who infused humour while reinforcing the day’s message: financial independence must be both achievable and enjoyable.
Closing the event, Vuyo Lee, JSE’s Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, reminded delegates: “We honoured the resilience and bold pivots that brought us here, but we also imagined futures where women actively shape the economy and lead its transformation.”
The 2025 SheInvests Conference delivered a potent blend of inspiration and hard data, balancing candid conversations on South Africa’s financial readiness with stories of resilience and leadership. With attendance at capacity and virtual streaming extending its reach, the JSE has positioned SheInvests not only as an annual event but as a movement driving women’s economic empowerment. Expectations are already building for SheInvests 2026.
