Fayruz Mohamed (center) pictured with her SAICA Difference Makers Award Photo Al-Qalam
South Africa – In a world where recognition of outstanding contributions often remains elusive, there are individuals who persistently strive to make a difference. An outstanding individual making a difference in society, whose name stands out— Fayruz Mohamed, is the first female national chairperson of National Zakah Fund (SANZAF). In recognition of her exceptional contributions, she has recently been bestowed with a prestigious award, the SAICA Difference Makers Award, focused on Humanity, Humanitarianism, Empowerment, and Community Building.
The SAICA Difference Makers Awards, organised by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), aim to acknowledge members and associates who are actively making a positive impact in different sectors of business and society. These awards distinguish individuals who have gone above and beyond, bridging the gap between being good and being excellent. The honorees are recognized for their decisions and contributions, fostering sustained prosperity while upholding the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and accountability.
Fayruz Mohamed’s inspiring nomination
Mohamed’s journey to success and recognition began when she was nominated by national chairperson Shaukat Fakie, SANZAF national executive member. The nomination process required a rigorous assessment of her work and its impact on society. Her nomination was supported by her diverse contributions, particularly in her role as the National Chairperson of SANZAF. Through her leadership and vision, the organisation has uplifted communities, driven welfare initiatives, and set exemplary governance standards.
“He had to go through quite a vigorous nomination process because you have to motivate why you think the individual deserves to at least win the category. They ask you various questions. It stemmed from my beginning in terms of my career. I sat on the board for the government as well. It was a broad aspect of what I do but very much focused in the works at SANZAF … It was all about the work that I’ve been doing in communities or at least trying to do within the communities and the impact that we make as an individual and as an organisation through SANZAF.”
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The Impact of her work
Mohamed’s accolades do not end with the SAICA Difference Makers Award; she has previously been honoured internationally with the Cambridge IFA Influencer Award. As an influential figure, she has shaped policies and decisions related to women’s empowerment and participation in Islamic Finance.
“Just about five months ago I received an award from Cambridge IFA in the UK where I won the influencer award for 2023. Influencer in the sense that as an individual, I influence policy, decision making around women empowerment, around women participating in the working space within Islamic Finance. That was an award that I received internationally. I’m very humbled and blessed to have been recognised for the work that we do within our country but now more blessed to have been recognised for the work you know we do by an organisation within South Africa and by a prestigious institution like SAICA.”
The recognition encourages her to continue her dedicated service to humanity with excellence and sincerity. Being acknowledged, for Mohamed, indicates to her that she is on the right track and is helping communities and women.
Mentoring the next generation
In addition to her outstanding achievements, Mohamed is passionate about empowering the next generation of female professionals. Recognising the lack of female role models within Islamic Finance and the corporate world, she initiated the Islamic Business and Finance Women’s Forum.
“Last year we established the Islamic Business and Finance Women’s Forum … We tried especially to create a space for other women to come on and join the platform where we can share our experiences, our challenges but also our successes. To create a platform where you can network with other similar like-minded individuals but start creating a network for yourself …I think from that I personally started mentoring some young individuals, young ladies across the country. It gives me immense pleasure and gratitude that I might not be able to give you a job, but I’ll be able to guide you and assist you.”
Mohamed’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. As the first female National Chairperson of SANZAF and a recipient of prestigious awards, she has left an indelible mark on society. Her commitment to empowering women and providing mentorship opportunities showcases her dedication to creating a brighter and more inclusive future. With her vision and efforts, she continues to uplift communities, inspire young women, and make a lasting difference in the world. As we celebrate her achievements, let us also embrace her message of empowerment and strive to make a positive impact in our own spheres of influence.
Fayruz Mohamed also spoke to Julie Alli on her vision for the future and what more needs to be done to empower women. Listen to that discussion here:
