Business Profile: Inanda Bezuidenhout
1. What is the name of your business and what is your role? Our business is Consult by Momentum Peak Sure, where I serve as the Franchise Principal, where I am an Asset protection and Risk management short-term insurance specialist.
2. Describe your business in two sentences. We focus on providing tailored solutions for asset protection and risk management in short-term insurance sector, collaborating with both individuals and businesses to safeguard their assets. Additionally, we offer referral models for third-party professionals in the insurance industry, simplifying the process for them to meet their clients’ insurance needs.
3. How long have you been in business? I have been involved in the financial insurance industry for 20 years. Our company launched as a tied agency with Momentum on March 27, 2020 – the very day lockdown was announced and partnered with Consult by Momentum in 2022 to broaden our client offerings through a wider range of insurance partners.
4. How did you get into this business? My career began at 17 in a local law firm’s debt collection department, where I discovered my passion for proactive financial planning and being a part of the solution and upfront planning. This led me to work as a personal assistant to financial advisors, eventually joining as financial advisor at the age of 21 and thereafter specializing in short-term insurance and risk management.
5. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it? Five years ago, I made the decision to pursue my dream of owning my own business, but I was simultaneously navigating a difficult divorce, which took an emotional toll. Thankfully, I drew strength from the unwavering support of my family, friends, and colleagues. Launching a business during the pandemic in such a competitive industry presented its own challenges. I had to navigate the complexities of the insurance sector, which often feels like an ‘old boys’ club,’ particularly when golf is my handicap. This experience compelled me to hone in on our unique strengths and the qualities that set our company apart. Building strong personal connections with clients has been essential to our success and has helped us thrive even in tough circumstances.
6. What single trait/skill could you not have succeeded without? Resilience has been a cornerstone of our success, allowing us to overcome challenges and consistently strive for growth. I firmly believe in the value of continuous learning, as “knowledge is power.” To excel in our field, it’s essential to stay informed and seek improvement in various ways—through reading, listening, and engaging with other professionals. Additionally, we prioritize empowerment within our team, creating opportunities for individuals regardless of their formal education. For instance, my assistant Samantha, who joined us as a stay-at-home mom, has become an indispensable part of our business, illustrating how diverse experiences can contribute to our collective success.
7. What is the best business advice you’ve received? The most impactful advice I’ve received is that “knowledge is power,” highlighting the necessity of continuous learning and staying informed in a competitive landscape. It’s essential to recognize that one is never too young or too old to embrace learning opportunities. Not all knowledge is in the form of formal education. Remember that every opportunity for learning and growth is invaluable.
8. Your secret to business success is? Our business success is rooted in building strong, personal relationships with clients and fostering a collaborative culture within our team. We all work towards a common goal.
9. What is your business goal for 2025? By 2025, I aim to expand our business further, enhance community understanding of risk management, and hope leave a significant impact on the insurance sector.
10. Tell us one thing that not many people know about you? Recently, I received a nomination for KZN Top Businesswomen 2024 powered by Business Sense and Morar Incorporated. I hold my 1st Dan (Black belt in karate) and JKA South African colours and was part of the Natal Action Netball Mixed Team and now coach at a local school, which I hope to inspire and mentor young people through sport.