Women urged to break free from inherited money beliefs

At the She Owns Her Success media jamboree, hosted by Momentum in Sandton on September 16, the panelists argued that financial empowerment starts from within, not from perfection, not from wealth, but from confidence, awareness, and the courage to challenge generational legacies.

Held at the stylish Artistry venue, the event brought together a powerhouse panel of behavioural experts, financial advisors, and strategic thinkers, all focused on dismantling the outdated belief that financial success is only attainable once you have made it.

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Instead, the conversation centred on breaking inherited financial behaviours and building a new, emotionally intelligent relationship with money.

Paul Nixon, head of behavioural finance at Momentum, said most of the financial behaviours we adopt are inherited from our families, and if those behaviours involve stress, or a lack of financial planning, it’s important to take a step back and reassess. He described how understanding and addressing these deep-rooted patterns can help break destructive cycles. “There’s a lot you can learn from the people around you. What are your parents doing with their money? How do they feel about it? If you’re feeling anxious, chances are, you’ve inherited that feeling.” He stressed the importance of being introspective about your financial situation, to avoid repeating negative patterns.

Masechaba Gxolo, the insights lead at Momentum, challenged the idea that financial independence begins with wealth. Instead, she argued, it starts with acknowledging where you are, even if that’s in debt. “Too many women believe they only qualify as financially successful once they’ve paid off their debt, own property, or have life insurance, but success starts when you choose to face your finances honestly.”

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According to Gxolo, confidence, not perfection, is the new standard, and taking that first, informed step, no matter how small, can be revolutionary. “Financial independence begins when you acknowledge your relationship with money, even when you’re in debt. Success doesn’t always require perfection; it requires confidence and the willingness to take the first step towards stability.”

Momentum financial advisor Janine Horn highlighted that finances are rarely just about rands and cents; they are deeply emotional and deeply personal. “Your financial past is a story, but it’s not written in stone. You can rewrite it. That’s where real transformation happens.”

She stressed the importance of financial advice, not as cold, clinical guidance, but as a safe space for vulnerability, growth, and personal evolution. “Women deserve a space where they can talk about money without shame. That’s where healing begins.”

While money was the primary theme, the event also celebrated women who are redefining legacy in other powerful ways, especially in sport.

Farai Ntuli, strategy manager at Accenture, spoke passionately about the role of female athletes in shaping a broader narrative of success. “Women in sport aren’t just breaking records; they’re reshaping what women believe is possible in life, in business, and in society.”

Ntuli called for better psychological and structural support for women entering the workforce, including mentoring and resilience-building programmes, like the Basic Package of Support, which is designed for young people aged 15 to 24, who are disconnected from the labour market and training.

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