Sisedi Investment Group, the first black and female-owned asset management company in Namibia, has taken a significant stride towards empowering the nation’s youth, curbing unemployment and reshaping the financial landscape.
Over the weekend, Sisedi Investment Group hosted a females-only event at a local hotel, featuring the launch of its Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Mentorship Programme and the Money Market Unit Trust Fund.
The CFA Mentorship Programme, a cornerstone of Sisedi’s commitment to youth development, offers a comprehensive and unique approach to mentorship. It was launched under the company’s CSR pillars – Women’s Empowerment, Job-Creation and Mentorship.
Unlike traditional mentorship programmes, Sisedi’s programme goes beyond education and offers practical guidance, ensuring mentees are well-prepared to excel, to empower and uplift women in the investment sector, and provide valuable opportunities for Namibia’s youth.
Hertha Gones, CEO and co-founder of Sisedi Investment Group, said after recognising the societal disadvantages faced by many individuals, particularly women of colour, their mentorship programme aims to foster diversity and inclusion in the investment sector.
“The programme offers well-rounded guidance, which not only offers theoretical support, but practical skills sharing as well. Sisedi aspires to cultivate a new generation of employable investment professionals who can thrive and excel, irrespective of their background,” she added.
In 2023, Namibia only has 32 CFA holders, and the mentorship programmes aim at increasing this number and extending a seat at the table for Namibian youth. It is a crucial step in equipping young professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
“CFA has a comprehensive curriculum and practical implementation of the investment management concept. There are no other qualifications that come a close second in depth and coverage, hence its continued appeal to upcoming and investment professionals,” said Yvonne Mwilima, co-founder at Sisedi Investment Group. She is also Namibia’s first black female CFA holder.
“As Namibia seeks to expand and diversify its financial industry, the CFA designation becomes increasingly vital in ensuring that financial professionals meet international standards and uphold ethical principles,” Mwilima added.
The mentorship programme is supported and endorsed by the CFA Society of Namibia, and will officially be taking in applications for mentees in January 2024.
The Money Market Unit Trust Fund caters for both individuals and institutions as a powerful savings vehicle. It provides a safe and accessible platform for individuals and organisations to grow their savings while contributing to the nation’s economic development.
The event also featured a thought-provoking panel discussion under the theme “Securing the Bag”, with distinguished panellists like Presidential youth advisor Daisry Obal, financial and wellness coach Afra Schimming-Chase, and entrepreneur and author Twapewa Kadhikwa.
They explored various aspects of financial emancipation, wealth-creation and the pivotal role of youth in securing their financial futures. The discussion furthermore provided valuable insights into the intersections of wealth, diversity, and the need for a more inclusive finance industry.
PHOTO: Mentor 2
CAPTION 2: Securing the bag… Presidential youth advisor Daisry Obal, managing director and entrepreneur Hilda Basson-Namundjebo and Nerina Vissa, director and former president of CFA Society of Namibia, during the launch of the CFA Mentorship Programme and the Money Market Unit Trust Fund.
Photos: Contributed