In celebration of Women’s Month, we’re shining a spotlight on some incredible Calleo women who consistently inspire us. The name ‘Calleo’ comes from Latin, meaning ‘to be skillful or wise through experience,’ and we believe these women truly embody these qualities. Now, let’s introduce you to Faiza Momoniat. 

We would love to know more about you, tell us a little about yourself? 

I’m a seasoned professional with over three decades of experience in Banking, Consulting, IT, Card, Payments and Sales. My career journey has been marked by numerous achievements and a diverse range of roles covering IT solutions, six sigma operations, project management, business management, customer experience and sales of hardware and software solutions.

I’ve successfully rose through the ranks in my early IT career and moved into working in payments companies and fintechs. Notable achievements were representation at industry bodies and groups, launching CHIP cards and working on key fraud cases. My roles covered payment switching solutions, merchant management solutions, card issuing, open API banking, hardware security management and fraud monitoring products.

I’ve been told I possess strong leadership skills having led large teams. I’m also have a coaching qualification and informally use it to mentor and coach young women in the technology industry. To date, I’ve built a strong network within Banks, Retailers, Telecoms and Payments businesses in South Africa and Africa.

Could you share a memorable moment or project that showcased the positive impact of efforts by women that inspired you?

My most memorable moment is being appointed to an Exco at a large bank when I was in my 30’s. This was my “climb the corporate ladder” defining moment….At the time, not many women of colour held Exco roles. I was afforded the opportunity by another strong woman that believed in me. This role allowed me to lead a large team and navigate the typical challenges that women face in a business world. Because of this, I have dedicated myself to giving back some of my time and sharing my experiences to help young women grow in their careers.

How do you think women can leverage their unique skills and strengths to actively participate in the business world?

Women have managed and mastered work/life balance brilliantly in all the fields that they work in and we continue to play roles outside of our workplace that contribute to our families and societies. These skills are extremely useful in a business context too such as multitasking, empathy, collaboration and networking. Women possess a unique ability to nurture and this can be beautifully demonstrated in our daily work lives too!

As a successful woman in a leadership position, what advice would you give to other women who want to end up in the same position?

Never give up as there is no glass ceiling! YOU decide how high you want to go. Also build a rock solid network with equally strong women that you can depend on and they will offer the support structure that you will need from time to time. Make time to connect and meet up, attend events and build your personal brand by being active in the circles you operate in. Keep learning and developing your skill and expertise to be able to contribute effectively.

As a woman in South Africa, what are you looking forward to when it comes to the advancement of women?

As a South African woman, I know we have many forums and associations that we can participate in and add value to financial inclusion, entrepreneurial support, education etc. STEM/STEAM initiatives focus on improving skills development in these fields and by being active and participating in these individually or with your company you will make a huge difference!

You’ve achieved so much in the payment industry, what advice would you give to aspiring women looking to pursue their dreams?

The Payments industry presents tons of opportunities for women to grow into specialists in this field. Once you work in payments, it remains in your blood! Everything else will appear boring :) . Payments roles are diverse and range across technical, analytical and commercial roles. All of these are incredibly exciting and there is never a dull moment in this space! YOU own your career and only you can achieve your dreams – this cannot be defined by others…..so start creating your plan and GO!