Olwethu Masanabo

Introduction

I didn’t set out to become a financial planner; in fact, I stumbled into it by accident. The position I applied for wasn’t even advertised as being in financial planning, but that unexpected turn ended up being one of the best things that ever happened to me. Once I stepped into the world of financial planning, I never looked back.  

What fascinated me most from the beginning was how deeply personal money truly is. It’s never just about numbers – it’s about values, beliefs, and experiences that often take root early in life. Every person’s relationship with money is unique, and helping them navigate that relationship, put plans in place, and take meaningful steps toward building and preserving wealth is something I consider a genuine privilege.  

For me, financial planning encompasses so much more than strategy – it’s about walking alongside people as they work toward the life they truly wish to lead.  

Experience

Olwethu Masanabo has over 18 years of experience in financial services. She is a CFP® professional and a registered member of the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI).

Throughout her career, she has held various roles in the banking and insurance sectors of South Africa, with a focus on financial planning. Her background includes leadership and client advisory positions, highlighting her dedication to providing trusted financial guidance.

Olwethu is the Chairperson of the Board at the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI) and has previously served as Chairperson of the Diversity & Inclusion Sub-Committee, the Nominations and Compliance Review Committee, and the Human Capital Committee at FPI.

Additionally, she is an Independent Trustee of the Old Mutual Black Distributor’s Trust (BDT) and a Non-Executive Director of the Old Mutual Black Distributors SPV (BDSPV), registered in the United Kingdom.

As an international speaker, Olwethu regularly participates in industry events and thought-leadership panels and was awarded the FPI Diversity and Inclusion Award in 2023. She is widely recognised for her passion for transformation and her leadership in financial services.  

Qualifications

• Executive Leadership Certificate – Duke Fuqua School of Business (Executive Development Programme with IWFSA)
• MBA – Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS)  
• Postgraduate Diploma in General Management – Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS)  
• Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning – University of the Free State (UFS)
• B.Com (Hons) Financial Management – University of South Africa (UNISA)  
• B.Com Financial Management Sciences – University of Pretoria  
• Associate Coaching Course – UCT Graduate School of Business (Centre for Coaching)  
• Wealth Management Certificate – INSETA  

Other

Olwethu serves as a Non-Executive Director and Independent Trustee on several boards and trusts. She is an accomplished public speaker and advocate for transformation within the financial planning profession.