Financial inclusion is a critical foundation for a thriving and equitable society. Yet many South Africans continue to face barriers that limit their ability to participate confidently in the financial system, including limited access to trustworthy information, low financial literacy levels, high household debt and rising living costs. These challenges make it harder for individuals and families to plan ahead, protect themselves from financial shocks and make informed decisions that support long‑term wellbeing. As a leading financial services organisation, Sanlam has a responsibility to help bridge this gap. Consumer financial education is one of the most powerful enablers of financial inclusion: it equips people with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to understand financial products, navigate risks, manage money wisely and make decisions that safeguard their future. For the Sanlam Foundation, this work is an important way of empowering people to strengthen their financial resilience, avoid predatory practices and build the habits that support stability and dignity. It also deepens trust in financial institutions by ensuring that communities feel informed, supported and able to exercise choice. Our financial education programmes aim to meet people where they are – in workplaces, schools, communities and online – providing information that is practical, relevant and accessible. “I now set realistic financial goals, maintain a well-structured budget, and have a clear understanding of what financial freedom truly means – including the importance of emergency savings and long-term stability. I’ve developed the ability to distinguish between needs and wants, improve my credit standing and take proactive control of my finances to make informed and responsible decisions.” Thabiso Hlongwane Worksite Department of Community Safety, Gauteng “This training proved to be extremely beneficial, as budgeting is not a common practice in our household. I have learned practical methods to create and manage a budget, save money effectively, and appreciate the importance of financial planning. This knowledge will help me avoid dependence on loan sharks. I strongly believe that every household should have the opportunity to participate in similar training sessions.” Nombuso Magagula Department of Correctional Services, Mbombela “This course has transformed both my mindset and lifestyle. I now approach life with greater creativity, plan my expenses more intentionally, and recognise the value of saving and borrowing responsibly. It has also deepened my understanding of the economic cycle and banking system, empowering me to make informed financial decisions that will contribute to a more secure and prosperous future for my family and me.” Ndondo Skosana Community member In 2025, the Foundation’s CFE portfolio reached over 66 615 beneficiaries Workplace and community-based CFE The Sanlam Foundation, in partnership with the ASISA Foundation and Avocado Vision, provides adult CFE programmes (WageWise and Money Fo’ Sho!) that deliver vital financial education on budgeting, saving, debt management and retirement planning, both face-to-face and digitally in community and workplace settings. The Sanlam Foundation’s CFE programmes seek to improve individual behaviour, prevent over-indebtedness, ensure financial resilience, build prosperity and ultimately contribute to financial inclusion. Programme delivery continues to be enhanced through improved data, digital reach and collaboration. Money Fo’ Sho! Money Fo’ Sho! is delivered in partnership with Avocado Vision, combining community‑based expertise with Sanlam’s commitment to building financial inclusion. The programme, which includes Money Online and Money Modular, provides practical, relatable financial education that helps individuals manage their money with greater confidence. By the end of 2025, the programme exceeded its target of 21 152 beneficiaries across all provinces, reaching a total of 21 566 beneficiaries (2024: beneficiaries reached: 18 217; target: 18 146). Training was delivered face-to-face to 20 736 beneficiaries (96%), while 2 133 beneficiaries accessed digital training. Demographically, the project reached 93% black beneficiaries, 39% rural and 82% LSM 1-8. The programme continues to receive excellent feedback from attendees. Looking ahead, Money Fo’ Sho! will continue to roll out worksite sessions and expand capacity for virtual training to reach a wider audience. Financial inclusion Consumer financial education Sanlam Foundation Annual Report 2025 15 About this report Sanlam Foundation social impact 2025 Message from the Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Message from the Head of the Sanlam Foundation Strategic aspirations Our theory of change Programmatic performance Monitoring and evaluation Income and expense report Group-wide social impact intent Our partners
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