Eight questions for the interested and interesting: Refilwe Mokate

As Standard Bank’s head of Africa banks, client coverage, and corporate and investment banking, Refilwe Mokate is a leader in the world of finance. But beyond that, she absolutely embraces life. She’s a great person to make a beeline for if you fancy an excellent chat, a big laugh and a good time in general.

What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year? And why?

There were two standouts. The first is The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak. It was a birthday gift and such a lovely read. It blends magic realism with reality, encouraging you to think about how you live your life and have the courage to make the choices that are right for you.

On the other end of the spectrum is Capitec: Stalking Giants by TJ Strydom, about how the bank grew from a start-up in the 90s to the bank it is today. I read it when I took on my current role at Standard Bank and was thinking about how banks are built. Most have existed for decades – Standard Bank is 162 years old, rooted in South Africa and branches across the continent – so it was interesting to consider how a new entrant carves out a space in a competitive, highly regulated industry, and contrast that to how the big banks adapted.

In banking, as with most things in life, resilience, a strong vision and the right people are key to success, and Standard Bank is a great example of this. Even though banking isn’t typically thought of as exciting, I’m looking forward to getting to know the financial institutions which have shaped the landscape of our continent.

How do you keep fit?

Maintaining balance in my life is important, and keeping fit helps me do that. While I go to the gym, my favourite way to stay active is walking and hiking. Being out in nature is my happy place. I’m not a morning person, but if I’m going for a hike at 7am, I’m joyous and bouncing off the walls.

I used to hike with a group, but I also love solo walks to reconnect with myself. There’s something about the combination of movement and nature that centres me.

What do you regret?

I used to have regrets, but hindsight has shown me how every experience has taught me something valuable. Whether good or bad, each moment has shaped me.

Regrets are futile mental real estate, and I try not to dwell there. But if I had to pick something, it would be some of my childhood fashion choices! Then again, those made me unique and, in some ways, resilient.

What three songs would you take to a desert island?

I’ve seen Castaway, so I know island life isn’t as fun as it sounds! My picks: Music, by Erick Sermon featuring Marvin Gaye (hip-hop, soul and funk in one – perfect for keeping my energy up); Something Special, by Kyle McEvoy, Ezzy, Smile High and Antwaun Stanley (a reminder that we all have something special inside, and the track I’d be humming along to while I try and build a shelter from palm fronds); and When I Pray, by DOE (a gospel track for faith and comfort during long, dark island nights).

Who was your high school celeb crush?

I wasn’t really into celeb crushes, but Bad Boys-era Will Smith? Spectacular. I’ve watched that movie so many times – it’s one of my favourites. Just to be clear: Bad Boys “Detective Mike Lowrey” Will Smith, not Fresh Prince of Bel Air Will Smith!

The one artwork you’ll always love, and why?

Azael Langa’s One Day We Will Go Back Home. Langa’s use of smoke as a medium gives his work an ephemeral, fleeting quality.

This piece depicts a woman holding a child on her hip, with a faint township outline in the distance. In her tote bag, iconic Joburg landmarks – the Ponte Tower and Hillbrow Tower – poke out. It’s as if she’s carrying the city with her but doesn’t know when or if she’ll get back there.

I bought the work years ago, and it struck me deeply as a child who grew up in exile. It feels like a memory of that time, or an imagined image of my mother carrying her children from country to country, not knowing if we would ever go home. It’s vibrant, poignant and beautiful – the centrepiece of my lounge and my favourite piece.

Working at Standard Bank, I’ve also discovered its incredible art collection. The Rosebank office has works by the likes of William Kentridge, Irma Stern, and an Esther Mahlangu tribute exhibition in the foyer currently. It’s a joy to experience daily.

What unusual item can’t you live without?

There’s very little I can’t live without – other than my family and friends. I’m not particularly materialistic. I like nice things, but stuff comes and goes.

I learnt this lesson when I left for INSEAD for my MBA. I packed up my house, and had to fit everything I needed for a year into two suitcases. With INSEAD’s programme, you don’t always know where you’ll go afterward – many classmates move countries within six months of graduating. So, I tried not to get attached to things.

Then, about a month into living in France, my apartment was broken into, and everything I owned (except my clothes) was stolen! That was a crash course in detachment.

If I had to choose one item, it would be my phone – it keeps me connected. But I also love turning it off and just being present. And if I were stranded on a desert island? A good lip balm – because you can’t be hot, miserable and have chapped lips.

Weekday, low-key restaurant go-to? What do you order?

Truffles on the Park in Sandton. It’s beautifully decorated with lush greenery, is rarely too busy, and works for anything from a fancy dinner to a relaxed brunch.

My go-to order? The filet steak with parmesan truffle fries and truffle aioli. There’s just something about truffle that makes any meal feel decadent. The food, ambiance and service make it an all-round winner.