Sanya Wallace, Assistant General Manager – Strategic Planning, Marketing and Sales, JN Money Services Limited
What do you think is the biggest barrier to achieving true equality, and what steps can, or have you personally taken, to empower more women to claim their rights?
WHILE women continue to make significant strides in achieving true equality, some barriers still exist. The main one, I believe, is deeply rooted in our societal biases and norms, which continue to limit opportunities afforded to women including leadership roles and structures. We have seen these biases manifest in numerous ways in the workplace and even at the community level, through stereotypical gender roles created or reserved for women, compensation gaps, and the scrutiny often placed on women’s leadership competencies.
For me, true equality starts within. I have always believed that I could, and I did, constantly learning and never backing down from a challenge, embracing each as an opportunity to grow while remaining authentic and resolute in my values. Self-belief and confidence are critical in breaking barriers, as they fuel resilience and determination. Ironically, my very small but mighty team comprises of women only. It was not always that way, but throughout the years, we have consistently aligned as it pertains to work ethic, dynamism, and the sheer resilience required to truly make our mark. Beyond personal determination, women uplifting other women is a crucial factor in accelerating progress. Mentorship and coaching play a key role in breaking barriers, creating pathways for the next generation to rise faster and go even further.
As we push through our own challenges, we must also extend a hand to others, ensuring they navigate obstacles with greater confidence and access. I have and will continue to encourage and empower women to challenge cultural and societal biases, set a solid foundation for economic independence, and speak up in instances of disrespect, sexism, harassment, and limited opportunities based on gender. Once we as women are aware of our value, understand our rights, and support each other in meaningful ways, we will be better equipped to challenge inequality and reshape the future.
Meet Sanya
Sanya Wallace was previously Senior Manager with responsibility for the JNMS Group’s Strategic Planning, Performance Measurement and Marketing portfolios. She has led several strategic initiatives which have resulted in market expansion as well as increased awareness and sales for JN Money, including leading the global rebranding from JN Money Transfer to JN Money; marketing programmes for new JN Money branches in the USA; and driving sales and increased uptake for JN Money online.
Her tenure with the JN Group began over 20 years ago and she holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Human Resource Management from the University of Technology and an MBA from the Mona School of Business. She also completed the Strategic Leadership programme, as well as the Digital Marketing Strategies: Data, Automation, AI & Analytics at the Northwestern Kellogg School of Management.
