With the current tough and trying times people find themselves in, particularly the youth, it is important for one to keep improving themselves and not limit themselves to borders.
This is advised by Taloshili Olavi Hangula, who is an investment banking analyst in the power, utilities and infrastructure team at Jefferies’ European headquarters in London.
“Do not limit yourself to borders. Globalisation has made it possible for you to literally go and seek opportunities elsewhere. If you feel there’s no conducive space in your current setting, perhaps it is time to find the space where you will feel most valued and useful,” he candidly told Youth Corner.
Hangula (24) said self-improvement is key, especially now with unemployment rates at appalling highs, which makes it more difficult and discouraging in an economy that seems to be stagnant, not forgetting the inflation rate that is making things more unbearable.
“It can be very discouraging to further your studies. However, I would encourage that self-growth is a much more rewarding option than sitting idle at home, waiting for things to change. If and when things do change, you will be more competitive and attractive to the labour market than your peers,” he stressed.
The vicenarian’s role at Jefferies entails advising clients on buying and selling various assets across Europe.
Hangula also assists clients in raising capital in equity and debt markets, a position he has held for the past 10 months.
His passion for international relations dates back to his time in youth politics, initially serving as the Junior SADC Tourism Minister at the Regional Tourism Organisation of Southern Africa (RETOSA) and National Youth Council (NYC) youth ambassador simultaneously.
He said both opportunities instilled within him the love to serve society and helped him realise the desire to create tangible solutions to various issues during the dispensation at the time.
“I am fortunate to be in a position where I can now give back to my community. I have been on the receiving end of generosity my whole life; it feels fulfilling in my journey of philanthropy to help build my local church and improve the quality of education at Elao Primary School in Okalongo, amongst other initiatives that are only possible because of this opportunity,” said Hangula.
He transitioned well into his current position, having studied for six years abroad.
Hangula has a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and a minor in Business Administration and Management from the University of Rochester in New York.
He also completed a Bachelor of Business Administration, Economics and Finance from the University of Westminster.
On his experience thus far, he said the job, like most jobs, does have its challenges, but his daily focus is always on improving the person he was yesterday.
“By these daily steps, I can identify how I am growing into the professional I desire to be. Jefferies is one of the most progressive investment banks to work for, and its positive and inclusive culture has certainly made it smoother for me to adapt to the role.”
- psiririka@nepc.com.na