We are excited to launch this series on the eve of National Woman’s Day. We will be looking at many strong, beautiful, kind, courageous and intelligent women throughout the month of August. We will find out what inspired them, what helped them grow, and what gave them strength. Our hope is that you will be inspired by their journeys.
We are delighted to start this series with an interview with: Lethukuthula Ngcobo (FNB Integrated Advice Product Manager)
Interview
Can you tell us a little about who you are and what your journey as a woman has looked like so far?
I’m Lethukuthula Ngcobo. Most people call me Lethu. I was born in Pretoria, raised in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), and moved to Johannesburg at the age of 16, where I finished secondary school and studied further.
My journey as a woman has been shaped by many ups and downs, each one offering lessons that helped me grow. I’ve come to believe that life is a journey of self-discovery, and that living in alignment with your values starts with truly knowing yourself.
Growing up wasn’t always easy. Some of the ideas I was exposed to around what it meant to be a “good woman” were quite traditional and didn’t align with who I was or who I wanted to be. For a while, I struggled with self-worth, often seeking validation outside of myself. However, through introspection and healing, I began to redefine my identity. Today, I know my value isn’t based on meeting societal expectations, it’s rooted in who I am. That mindset shift has allowed me to build a life that feels authentic and meaningful.
When did you first feel a strong sense of your own womanhood? What is womanhood to you?
For me, womanhood is about community. I think of the women who’ve supported me over the years; family, friends, colleagues, even strangers who’ve offered warmth, encouragement or a kind word when I needed it. I think of the women in my family who show up for each other without hesitation, and the colleagues who took the time to guide and uplift me. Even in simple moments, like strangers complimenting each other in a bathroom, there’s a beautiful spirit of sisterhood. That kind of support has shaped me, and I see it as my responsibility to pass it on.
What does being a woman mean to you today?
It means defining it on your own terms. We’re no longer boxed into one version of womanhood. For me, it means living with empathy and ubuntu. Seeing people, treating them with compassion, and using my gifts to uplift others is what makes womanhood special for me.
What values or lessons do you hope to pass on to your children or the next generation?
Love – both inward and outward. When we love ourselves, we create space for healing and direction. And when we love others, we create the same space for them. I believe love and acceptance are powerful tools for creating more inclusive, compassionate communities.
What inspired your current path (career, creativity, or something else)?
My grandmother was a big inspiration. She was strong, kind, and deeply committed to her community. She also worked as a financial advisor and shared early lessons on money and independence. With her encouragement, and my love for numbers, I studied a BCom in Economics and Finance at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and began my career in banking. I worked across various areas, from branch roles to private and business banking, which gave me insight into how personal and impactful money is in people’s lives.
That experience sparked a deeper interest in financial planning, not just managing money, but helping people shape their lives through informed financial decisions. I completed an Honours degree in Financial Planning at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and, despite the challenges of being a young woman in a tough industry, I’ve built a career that aligns with my purpose.
Have you faced any challenges as a woman in your field or community? How did you overcome them?
Yes, especially during my time as a Financial Planner where the work was commission-based and the industry very male-dominated. I was still in my mid-twenties, trying to build trust with clients and carve out space for myself. I often faced rejection, but I chose to focus on serving young people of colour, a group often overlooked in financial conversations. I built a strong client base in this space, but the financial strain eventually led me back into banking.
At first, it felt like I was stepping away from my purpose, but I’ve since found a role that brings it all together. As a Product Manager for Integrated Advice at FNB, I get to use both my financial planning background and banking experience to drive meaningful impact. Looking back, the challenges were part of the journey – they shaped me and brought me here.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself in the past year?
I’ve uncovered a level of resilience and self-trust I didn’t know I had. I’ve also learned to give myself grace, to pursue my goals with discipline but also allow space to rest, reflect or shift direction when needed. Growth comes from balance.
How do you care for yourself in a world that often demands so much from women?
I believe in intentional self-care. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and as women, we’re often expected to give endlessly. Prioritising my own healing and growth has allowed me to better support others. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.
Who are the women (past or present) who’ve inspired or supported you?
There are many. My grandmother, for believing in my potential. My mother and aunts, who were always there for me. And my closest friends, a sisterhood who’ve loved and accepted me, especially during times when I struggled to do that for myself. Their support has been foundational.
What message would you share with other women reading this today?
Speak life into yourself. Life can be tough and, at times, it may feel like the world wants to dim your light. Don’t let it. Hold your head high, know who you are, and stay connected to what truly matters to you – that’s your anchor through life’s highs and lows.
A favourite quote or mantra you live by?
I don’t have a specific quote. However, in difficult moments I remind myself: “God’s got you.” Everything happening is for the greater good. Even if it’s not clear right now, the answer will come in the end. It’s about having faith and trusting that your purpose and gifts will unfold in time.
In Summary
Thank you, Lethu, for your insights and advice! Germany Kent (award-winning TV Host and Author) said this:
“Speak Life:
You are loved.
You have purpose.
You are a masterpiece.
You are wonderfully made.
God has a great plan for you.”
I hope that we will all take a moment to, as Lethu and Germany said, ‘Speak life into ourselves’ so that we can become the best version of ourselves and in turn bless the lives of our families and friends 🩷.
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