Samenthrie Govender is a dynamic business leader and the Regional Manager for Gauteng at SW360, where she is recognized for her strategic insight, people-centered leadership, and consistent delivery of growth within the region. With a strong track record in business development and stakeholder engagement, she has become a respected voice in the financial and agricultural sectors.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in banking?
I pursued a career in banking because I was seeking a field where I could grow rapidly and develop strong professional skills. It felt like the perfect place to start building a meaningful, long-term career. Over 28 years in the industry, what challenges have you faced as a female leader, and how have you overcome them?
At the age of 28, I was appointed as a manager, the youngest and only woman of colour in a team largely made up of older, white males. While this was a significant achievement, it also came with unique challenges. Stepping into a leadership role in a traditionally male-dominated environment initially affected my confidence, as I had to work harder to earn credibility and establish my authority.
I often faced subtle biases and had to navigate perceptions about my age, gender, and background. Building trust and demonstrating competence required resilience, professionalism, and consistent performance. At times, decision-making and communication styles differed, and I had to adapt my approach to ensure I was heard and respected while staying true to my leadership values.
However, this experience strengthened my confidence, emotional intelligence, and ability to lead diverse teams. It taught me the importance of self-belief, preparation, and fostering inclusivity in the workplace, lessons I continue to carry into my career today.
2. What advice would you give young women who aspire to leadership roles in finance or tech-driven sectors?
To young women aspiring to lead in the finance or tech sectors, be true to yourself, be courageous, and always believe in your self-worth. These industries are constantly evolving and often challenging, but authenticity and confidence will set you apart. Don’t be afraid to be bold, to take risks, to speak up, and to lead with purpose. Remember, every step you take forward opens the door a little wider for those who will follow. Your voice, your perspective, and your courage matter!
3. How important is mentorship and support networks for women in banking
Mentorship and support networks are vital for women in the Banking Industry. They provide guidance, encouragement, and access to opportunities that help women grow in confidence and leadership. In a traditionally male-dominated industry, having strong mentors and peer support makes it easier to navigate challenges and build a successful, sustainable career.
4. What drew you to data verification and compliance as a focus area in your career?
In my previous role within a corporate environment, risk and compliance formed part of my portfolio, and it was an area I developed a strong interest in. Over time, I realised that I wanted to broaden my experience beyond the traditional corporate space. When the opportunity arose to transition into a role directly linked to the risk and compliance industry, it immediately caught my attention, as it aligned perfectly with both my professional interests and my goal to diversify my career.
5. How does SW360’s technology help banks make fairer, more transparent lending decisions?
SearchWorks360’s verification technology has made a real difference in how banks make lending decisions. It brings together accurate, real-time data from multiple sources like identity, credit, and asset information, which helps reduce fraud and ensures decisions are based on verified facts. What I really value is the transparency it brings; every check leaves an audit trail, so the process is consistent and accountable. This not only supports fairer lending but also builds trust between banks and their clients.
6. What role does innovation play in empowering women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated sectors?
Innovation has been a powerful enabler for women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated sectors. It creates space for new ideas, flexible ways of working, and opportunities to demonstrate leadership beyond traditional boundaries. I’ve seen how technology and innovation help level the playing field, allowing women to bring fresh perspectives, drive change, and add real value. For me, innovation isn’t just about new systems or tools; it’s about creating an environment where women can lead confidently, be heard, and make a lasting impact.
7. How do you balance the technical aspects of your role with leadership and strategic decision-making?
In my experience, balancing the technical aspects of my role with leadership and strategic decision-making comes down to understanding the details while keeping the bigger picture in mind. I make sure I’m knowledgeable enough about the technical work to guide my team effectively, but I also delegate specialized tasks to experts so I can focus on strategy, aligning our work with organisational goals. This approach allows me to lead confidently, make informed decisions, and ensure the team’s efforts are impactful.
8. What’s one piece of advice you wish you had received when starting your career?
The one piece of advice I wish I had received early in my career is how to maintain a proper work-life balance. Learning to prioritise both work and family, without neglecting either, is something I’ve had to navigate over time. I’ve realised that setting boundaries, managing time effectively, and trusting others with responsibilities not only support personal well-being but also allow me to perform at my best professionally.
9. How can women in finance advocate for more inclusive, responsible growth in the agricultural sector?
Women in finance can advocate for inclusive and responsible growth by leading with integrity, promoting transparency, and mentoring others to ensure diverse voices are heard. I’ve seen firsthand how supporting fair policies and embedding customer-focused, ethical practices in decision-making not only drives sustainable growth but also creates a culture where everyone’s perspective is valued and considered
10. Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of agricultural finance, data technology, and opportunities for women?
What excites me most about the future of banking and finance is the way data and technology are transforming the industry. Innovations like real-time analytics, AI-driven decision-making, and digital platforms are creating more efficient, transparent, and customer-centric banking. For women, this evolution presents incredible opportunities to lead, innovate, and influence the sector in meaningful ways. The growing focus on diversity, inclusion, and responsible finance means women can help shape the future of banking, drive innovation, and create more equitable financial services for all.
Mention
In 2025, Samenthrie will address the Agricultural Bankers Summit, a testament to her expertise and her influence in shaping the future of agricultural finance. Her leadership and professional achievements have made her a standout figure, as she continues to exemplify excellence, resilience, and innovation within the business space.
For more information about SW360 and its range of data verification and compliance solutions, visit www.sw360.co.za.
