For many South African women, financial independence does not necessarily mean having the freedom to spend, save or plan for the future.
Instead, their income may be supporting an entire family.
Between school fees, groceries, household expenses and the needs of ageing parents, women in their 30s, 40s and 50s can find themselves carrying the financial responsibilities of several generations at once.
It is a reality often described as being part of the “sandwich generation”.
These women are raising children, helping adult offspring who are struggling to find work, supporting elderly parents and, in many cases, trying to keep their own careers and households on track.
