On Youth Day, leading CFOs and executives reflect on their journeys, offering powerful insights on ambition, resilience and the importance of building an “invisible CV” through consistency, confidence and courage.
As South Africa marks Youth Day, senior finance leaders are reflecting on their personal journeys and offering advice to the next generation navigating their own paths into leadership.
Bongani Ngcongo, chief financial officer of Proconics, recalls how his ambition was shaped early in life by both determination and family support. From a young age, he set his sights high, recalling a childhood memory of confidently telling his sister he would be “number two”, and later proving to himself that he could achieve even more.
“I was number two in Grade Seven, and then in Standard Six I became number one,” he reflects. “The fire, the direction, it was already there.”
Looking back, he acknowledges a deep drive that pushed him relentlessly through school and into his early career, even when opportunities were not immediately forthcoming. He remembers actively pursuing bursary opportunities and persistently following up with firms such as Deloitte.
“If I could go back, maybe I would have studied even harder to secure straight A’s and guarantee a bursary earlier, but the fire and purpose were always there,” he says.
For Bongani, the lesson for young people is clear: ambition must be matched with preparation, persistence and self-belief.
Ayanda Kotobe, finance director at RS South Africa, reflects on a journey shaped by breaking barriers and redefining what is possible.
“Growing up, we didn’t often see people who looked like us break through those barriers,” she says. “Being the first in my family to earn a degree already felt like a ceiling-breaking moment, so where I am today would have felt almost unimaginable.”
Stepping out of the comfort zone
For Taryn Woodbridge, former CFO and current CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, success is built in the everyday choices that shape character and reputation.
She speaks about the importance of an “invisible CV”, the unseen but powerful impression created through consistency, integrity and work ethic.
“How do you show up? What is your work ethic? Are you consistent? Do you do what you say you will do? People notice you, and that reputation builds quietly.”
She emphasises that success is not defined by a single moment or path, but by resilience, authenticity and a willingness to keep learning. She encourages young professionals not to hold themselves back.
“Don’t limit yourself. Speak up. Build your networks early. Don’t wait until you feel ready, because often, you already are. Many opportunities are lost not due to lack of ability, but because of self-doubt,” she adds.
Having self-belief
Jennifer Erasmus, the CFO of Trellidor, echoes this sentiment, particularly for young women aspiring to leadership roles in finance. She encourages confidence and self-belief as critical tools for progression.
“Don’t be intimidated. Back yourself. You’ve been through the same training. You have the qualifications. It’s about building your confidence and stepping forward.”
Reflecting on her own career milestones, including becoming an audit partner, she describes a sense of pride and fulfilment.
“I think I’m really proud. One of the proudest moments in my career was being made an audit partner. It was always the end goal, and I just feel genuinely proud of where I am now,” she said.
