In the world of insurance fraud, where identities are stolen and lives are upended for financial gain, the work of fraud investigators goes far beyond numbers and paperwork - it’s about protecting basic human rights.

For Evadna Mapoe, a trailblazing fraud investigator at the Insurance Crime Bureau, it’s a daily battle to safeguard individuals from privacy breaches, financial exploitation, and the erosion of trust in the systems that are meant to protect us.

As the first female investigator at her company, she’s not only breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry but also ensuring that people’s rights to their own identity and financial security are never compromised. "When someone's identity is stolen, it’s not just about the money - it’s about their right to live freely and securely," she says, outlining how fraud impacts more than just the victims’ bank accounts. It's a fight that impacts all of us, ensuring fairness and justice in a system that’s meant to safeguard us.

One of the most high-profile cases she has worked on was the Rosemary Ndlovu case where a police official was found guilty of insuring her relatives and later orchestrating their murders to claim payouts.

The Insurance Crime Bureau played a key role in that case’s success, highlighting the critical work done in tackling organised crime within the insurance sector.

Mapoe has always wanted to be in law enforcement. With a degree in Psychology, she aimed to apply her knowledge within the department. After 15 years with the Directorate of Priority Crimes Investigation, she moved to Johannesburg for an opportunity she could not refuse.

Her career milestone was becoming the first female insurance fraud investigator at The Insurance Crime Bureau several years ago. “A milestone and pioneer for women in the industry,” she says.

In a male-dominated field, she draws inspiration from Marilyn Monroe’s quote: “I don’t mind being in a man’s world, as long as I can be a woman in it.” She believes skill, talent, and hard work are what matter, and these do not discriminate.

Investigating cross-carrier fraud is at the core of her work. Mapoe explains that fraudsters often target multiple insurance companies, using stolen identities to claim benefits. Many victims are unaware that policies have been taken out in their names. Preventing, detecting, and investigating such crimes is vital in keeping the industry clean.

One of the most rewarding aspects of her job is notifying people that their identities have been compromised and guiding them on how to protect themselves. “It is difficult to pinpoint one proud moment, as there are many,” she says.

Her advice to young women interested in the industry is to do their research. She recommends shadowing professionals and studying relevant courses. “It might sound glamorous, but it is hard work,” she cautions.

Looking ahead, she acknowledges the role of AI in fraud detection. Criminals are evolving, making detection more difficult. AI can enhance response times and help identify fraud risk models to mitigate threats.

She stays motivated by focusing on the bigger picture. “Doing good is the reward,” she says. Small victories remind her of the impact of her work. In difficult times, she finds solace in cooking, listening to jazz, and spending time with family. Teaching dance is another passion that helps her unwind.

Mapoe’s work is both intense and rewarding, but she approaches it with a sense of humour. If her career were ever made into a film, she’d want Zoe Saldana to play her. "Someone once told me at a petrol station that I remind them of the lady in Colombiana," she laughs, clearly embracing the comparison.

Her dedication to tackling fraud goes hand in hand with her desire to keep the bigger picture in mind. She names Rosa Parks as a historical figure she’d love to have dinner with, eager to learn what motivated her to stay seated on that bus despite knowing the consequences. "I would ask her how she reconciled herself with that decision."

While much of her work is serious, Mapoe’s playful side is never far behind. One of the most bizarre and funny moments she’s encountered was when someone submitted a photo of an empty washing line to prove that their clothes had been stolen. “You’ve got to laugh sometimes,” she says.

And despite the challenges of working in a male-dominated field, Mapoe wishes the industry’s perception of women would shift. “The perception that women belong behind a desk and not in the field ... Although it is not said out loud, it is still felt.” she admits, though she’s determined to lead by example.