On Saturday, 13 September, Afrikaap Radio collaborated with Andtin & Partners to host a dynamic session aimed at business owners who want to equip their teams with vital financial literacy skills. The event unpacked the realities of debt in South Africa, the rights of consumers under the National Credit Act, and the ripple effect of financial stress on workplace productivity.
Andtin & Partners have built their reputation on doing what few others dare: taking on the banks and credit providers when credit agreements cross the line into reckless lending or fraud. For close to three decades, the firm has specialised in mediation, debt review unflagging, and credit agreement investigations. At this gathering, they pulled no punches.
The Hidden Weight Employees Carry
“You have no idea the burdens your staff members come to work with. Financial problems are some of the highest stressors, and they can’t just leave those worries at the door. So of course the stress will impact their productivity, which impacts your profits,” said Angia Samuels, one of the Directors at Andtin & Partners.
The message was clear: if businesses want productive, motivated staff, they need to take employee financial well-being seriously. “If you take care of your staff, they will take care of your business. It’s important to let your employees know the vital role they play in your business,” Samuels added.
Debt as a Cycle
From garnishee orders against salaries to the emotional toll of debt, the session revealed how deeply financial strain cuts into everyday life. “The bank statement is a beautiful thing. Hy vertel net die waarheid,” Samuels reminded the audience. She stressed that sometimes what’s hidden within those numbers is the story of reckless lending, unmet needs, and systemic pressure. And sometimes, let’s be honest, it speaks to consumer irresponsibility.
Debt, Samuels noted, can be like a drug. It can become an addiction, and it sometimes comes with shame, embarrassment, and the false promise of cashflow relief, while often digging people deeper into difficulty. And yet, in South Africa, you often have to open accounts you don’t really need – like clothing or cellphone credit – in order to qualify later for bigger loans like a house or a car. Without proper guidance, that cycle can pull people into debt before they’ve learned how to manage it wisely.
Challenging the System
What sets Andtin & Partners apart is their willingness to test the boundaries of the financial space. Through mediation and litigation, they confront credit providers, sometimes in court, to fight for clients. Their services may involve a three-year process, guiding people to develop healthier credit habits and reclaim financial dignity.
Importantly, they emphasise education and prevention:
“People need to be educated, and know that they have rights to stand on.” — Angia Samuels
The National Credit Act and National Credit Regulator are evolving, but many South Africans remain unaware of their rights. And as Samuels put it, part of what lands people into trouble is simply a lack of information.
A Better Way Forward
All too often, when people get into financial trouble, they are left in a vulnerable position, and feel frightened, wondering, “Is there anyone who will fight for me?” Andtin & Partners position themselves as exactly that: advocates with the courage to take on institutions that seem untouchable. Their mission is clear — to protect consumers, educate communities, and remind South Africans that financial discipline and empowerment go hand in hand.
For Business, For Community
The session wasn’t just about individuals — it was a call to action for employers, managers and business owners. Financial literacy, workplace well-being, and productivity are tightly interlinked. By booking Andtin & Partners to deliver a free presentation at the workplace, employers can invest in the stability and growth of their own companies. Equip your team with the tools to manage debt, reduce stress, and unlock productivity. Email tamsynb@andtin.co.za to get in touch.