The Power of Authenticity

By: Jeanette Marais, Deputy CEO, Momentum Metropolitan

At a time when we are apart, our interconnectedness can still bring us together; connect us in partnerships,relationships and communities new and old.

I thank you for giving me the opportunity to reflect in this special publication on my interconnectedness within a community of women. That does not mean leaving the men out but rather acknowledging and celebrating a complementary group that uplifts, supports, earns and works in our industry.

We have been physically apart for the last five months but there are still commonalities that link us together as women and play a role in helping us stay connected and composed.

I came across a quote that I simply love and I would like to share the words of the famous Dr Seuss with you: “Today you are You, that is Truer than True. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”

This speaks to authenticity; being honest and genuine. People respond to someone who feels real to them.
If people experience that you are authentic, they will trust you, value you, and look to you for leadership and guidance.

August is Women’s Month with renewed awareness, however women have a role to play in acknowledging their true and authentic selves the whole year round.

Authenticity is about how you conduct yourself, it’s about being real. Being real is the combination of confidence, your behaviour, self-awareness and consistency. It is about establishing and showing an honest and consistent alignment between your personality, your words, and your actions.

That brings me to the important role South African companies have in aligning their beliefs and values in authentically supporting women in the workplace. Are we collectively creating an inclusive environment and culture where women are equally valued and encouraged? We don’t want women to be afraid to bring their whole selves into their work relationship and to be able to receive both recognition and respect. Historically there have been equality shortfalls and pay gaps. All companies need to do better.

I am proud to relay that 64% of our permanent employees, including our tied adviser force, are female, 48% of our top quartile employees are women, and remuneration at Momentum Metropolitan is not skewed or prejudicial based on gender. I look forward to the day that many, if not all South African (and global) companies can say the same.

That is part of the reason why Momentum has once again flipped the “M” so that for the whole August, we celebrate women and encourage the crucial conversations that we should have around issues and challenges women face. As “Womentum” we want to create the platform to start the conversations and we open up the floor for women to own their success. #SheOwnsHerSuccess

Women are a big part of the workforce in South Africa, in fact 51% are women. Yet, they’re often excluded from making financial decisions. It is our role as a financial services company to ensure that women are included in these conversations – and this doubles the opportunity set of clients for advisers and companies alike.

Even if we can’t be together at least we can come together on matters of importance. What matters to you must matter to all of us.

Momentum Investments is part of Momentum Metropolitan Life Limited, an authorised financial services (FSP6406) and registered credit (NCRCP173) provider.