Standing Firm in Faith and Finance: Amanda Johnson’s Calling as a Debt Counsellor
Team Talk Magazine recently caught up with Amanda Johnson from Algoa Debt Counsellors, following her inspiring conversation with Leanne Bennet from Kingfisher FM on Women, Faith, and Business. If you missed it, be sure to listen to the full interview, link included in this article.
Standing Firm in Faith and Finance: Amanda Johnson’s Calling as a Debt Counsellor In the heart of Gqeberha, where personal finance battles are fought quietly in homes and boardrooms, Amanda Johnson stands as a beacon of hope.
A registered and highly respected debt counsellor with over 15 years of experience, Amanda is not just in the business of numbers—she's in the business of restoration. Co-partner at Algoa Debt Counsellors alongside attorney and fellow counsellor Derryn Fish, Amanda has dedicated her life’s work to guiding individuals and families through one of life’s most vulnerable journeys: financial recovery.
Her reputation is built not only on competence—having been recognised among South Africa’s Top 5 debt counsellors—but on compassion, faith, and an unwavering commitment to integrity. Registered with the Debt Counsellors Association of South Africa (DCASA) – NCRDC 1080 and operating from 214 Cape Road, Mill Park, Gqeberha, Amanda is a trusted voice in the Eastern Cape and beyond. But behind the accolades is a woman whose business is deeply shaped by something far greater than strategy or regulation—her faith.
A Calling Beyond the Bottom Line
“For me, this isn’t just a business—it’s a calling and a ministry,” Amanda says. “Debt counselling is my job, but people are my passion.”
Amanda doesn’t simply help clients reduce payments or consolidate debt; she helps restore dignity, rebuild confidence, and rekindle hope. Her work is governed by values deeply rooted in her Christian faith: honesty, service, and compassion. Each client meeting becomes an opportunity to reflect God’s love—not always through words, but through action, presence, and integrity.
“I believe every person deserves a second chance,” she explains. “When someone walks through my door overwhelmed and ashamed, I see it as sacred ground. God placed me here to be a vessel of grace and guidance in their time of need.”
Faith in the Face of Uncertainty
Like many entrepreneurs, Amanda has walked through seasons of uncertainty—times when the business wavered, and questions loomed large. One of her biggest faith-testing moments came during a period when client referrals dropped drastically.
“I remember praying, asking God, ‘Is this still where You want me?’ But in that silence, I felt Him reminding me of why I began. This wasn’t just about income—it was about impact.” Slowly but surely, things turned around. New clients came. Old ones referred others. Encouraging messages arrived at just the right time. “God has shown up in unexpected ways—through a stranger’s phone call, a breakthrough conversation, or even a quiet nudge in my spirit,” Amanda reflects. “Those are the moments that confirm: this work is His.”
Faith-Filled Leadership in a Secular Space
Operating in a highly regulated and often competitive industry, Amanda has never wavered on her commitment to ethical business. “I’ve seen others chase quick wins or bend the rules, but I’m not willing to compromise my integrity,” she says.
“I answer to God before I answer to clients, creditors, or regulations.”
Her goal isn’t just to deliver results—it’s to reflect Christ in the way she leads. Whether it’s taking extra time to ensure a client fully their repayment plan, or offering a listening ear with no judgment, Amanda sees her professional role as a form of ministry.
“Being a witness in the marketplace means people feel seen, respected, and loved—even if they don’t know why,” she explains. “Sometimes it’s the silent prayer before a meeting or the words of encouragement that shift someone’s entire day. That’s the Holy Spirit at work.”
Rhythms of Rest and Renewal
Running a business that deals with financial crisis on a daily basis can be emotionally taxing. For Amanda, maintaining spiritual balance is not optional—it’s essential.
“I can’t pour into others if I’m spiritually empty,” she says. Even when I’m busy, I carve out time to reconnect with God.” Through daily prayer and consistent time in the Word of God, she finds the strength and clarity she needs to navigate life’s challenges. No matter how overwhelming the day may seem, she knows where her help comes from. Spending time in God’s presence re-centres’ her heart and reminds her of His promises. One verse she clings to is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
It’s more than a reminder—it’s her reality. In every season, she leans into God’s Word. “It reminds me that I’m not doing this alone—His strength carries me, especially when mine runs out.”
Advice for the Next Generation of Women in Business
When asked what she would tell a young woman trying to build a career without compromising her faith, Amanda doesn’t hesitate: “Live for an audience of One. The world will try to push you into corners—into competition, comparison, compromise. But your greatest success will come fromstaying rooted in who you are and Whose you are. God honours obedience and integrity.”
Her message is one of empowerment, grounded in spiritual truth and lived experience.
“There is nothing weak about kindness. There is nothing soft about compassion. I am a daughter of the Most High—and El Gibbor, the Lord Mighty in Battle, is on my side. That gives me the courage to lead, to serve, and to stand firm in any storm.” Psalm 24:8 reads: "Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle."
A Legacy of Hope
Amanda Johnson isn’t just reshaping finances—she’s rebuilding lives. Through her work, many clients have reclaimed control over their futures, many of them walking out not just debt-free, but hope-filled. Her legacy is clear: a woman of unwavering faith, relentless compassion, and unshakable purpose. In a world often driven by profit, Amanda leads with purpose. And in doing so, she reflects the light of a Kingdom not built on earthly wealth—but eternal worth.
Compiled for Team Talk Magazine by Amanda Johnson and Stella Ashworth.
