Financial adviser Rebekah Pillay shines at Mrs India Worldwide

Rebekah Pillay has spent the past two decades helping people build and protect their financial dreams as financial adviser at Consult by Momentum. Based in KwaZulu-Natal and a proud mom of two, she’s built a career around guiding clients – especially women – towards greater financial independence. This year, she added an unexpected new title to her name: Mrs India Worldwide SA finalist.

When it comes to financial advice, Rebekah says she started in the industry thinking it would just be a part-time job while she studied, but “I ended up falling completely in love with it. The ever-evolving nature of finance, the ability to grow continuously, and the human connection it offers is what’s kept me here.”

Rebekah thrives on building deep, long-lasting relationships with her clients; many of whom are women navigating the dual pressures of earning a living and raising families. “Money is still such a sensitive topic for women. Some would rather talk about death than finances. But seeing someone like me, thriving in a male-dominated industry, helps shift that narrative. If I can do it, so can they.

“The recognition I’ve received, including numerous awards and industry respect, is a testament to my commitment and unwavering work ethic. Making a meaningful difference in my clients’ lives continues to inspire and drive me.”

Rebekah is divorced and co-parents her two children with her ex-husband, whom she says she came to an amicable agreement with for the sake of their family. “Our priority was always the wellbeing of our kids, and that mindset has helped us maintain a harmonious co-parenting relationship.”

Despite her busy life – or perhaps, because of it – Rebekah is fiercely intentional about finding balance. She credits her planning and time management skills with keeping all the balls in the air. “I even schedule phone calls! I also have non-negotiables: time where I’m fully present, whether that’s with my kids, my clients or myself.”

That commitment to self-improvement saw her step out of her comfort zone and into the pageant world. “I wanted to do something for my personal growth, to trim the edges, so to speak. I started boxing, vocal and dance lessons, and even bought a local business from a friend who moved across country. I’m also working on a cookbook with someone special .”

While the Mrs India journey has brought “fabulousness and fun”, she says, it has also sharpened her sense of purpose. “Financial planning teaches you resilience. It’s not just about selling a product; it’s about helping people find direction during uncertainty. That same resilience helped me prepare mentally and practically for the demands of pageantry,” says Rebekah.

She adds that the experience reshaped her views on confidence and self-worth: “Before my exposure, I viewed pageants as a somewhat harsh judgement of women. Since experiencing it first-hand, I have come to realise that they’re also about connection, growth and support. I’ve been deeply humbled and reminded that success is a team effort.”

As a financial adviser, Rebekah believes in walking the talk. “I’ve taught my kids to save from as early as one year old. Time is your biggest asset. Small, consistent contributions matter more than big amounts started late.”

And her message to other women torn between stability and passion?

“Choose passion. Always. We only get one life. Financial stability is important but true fulfilment comes from pursuing what sets your soul on fire. Don’t just settle for comfort. You were made to create ripples.”

Looking ahead, Rebekah says she’s more committed than ever to her role at Consult by Momentum. “Financial planning is the pulse in my veins. It allows me to be my best self – for my clients, my kids, and especially the young women watching me. My purpose hasn’t changed, it’s just become clearer.”