Cynthia Stimpel
Finance Executive. Accountability Champion. Former Whistleblower Liaison Manager
In 2016, Cynthia Stimpel, then Treasurer at South African Airways, raised concerns about a proposed R256-million transaction involving BNP Capital. Acting in the public interest, she alerted the National Treasury — a step that ultimately halted the deal. Her decision came at high personal cost. Cynthia lost her position and endured years of professional and personal retaliation. Yet rather than retreat, she transformed her experience into purpose. Determined that others should not face similar isolation, she went on to work at The Whistleblower House — a vital support network offering guidance, solidarity, and practical assistance to those who speak out. Cynthia Stimpel’s journey is one of resilience and renewal. From standing alone to building community, she demonstrates that whistleblowers do more than expose wrongdoing — they strengthen democracy and help restore trust where it has been broken. We honour her courage. We recognise her leadership. We celebrate the hope she continues to build.