One Night That Made Investing Feel Possible

From Storms to Spark

100 finance students from the University of Pretoria, gathered after-hours for an investing session hosted by ABSIP - the Association of Black Securities and Investment Professionals.

They could’ve been anywhere else. But they chose to be in that room.

And from the moment we began, it was clear: this wasn’t going to be a passive crowd. This was lean-in energy. Eyes up. Questions ready. Not “what is a share?” - but “how can I start?”

From Confusion to Confidence
We started with the basics. How do I navigate the platform? How does a TFSA work? What does starting small actually look like?

And somewhere between the walkthroughs and the TFSA calculator demo, the energy shifted. The “I don’t get it” expressions gave way to nods, smiles, and sharp, personal questions.

“So wait, I don't need R10k to start?”
“Can you show us how to use the AI Basket creator?”
“Where can I learn more about ETFs?”

These were the moments where investing stopped being abstract and started feeling personal. That’s when I knew the lightbulbs were switching on.
And not just in theory - but in them.

One Share. One Spark. One Start.
That night, I had the chance to share my own story of how I started with no financial background, no degree, and just the R50 voucher I got from opening my EasyEquities account. And how that single decision - to invest not only in stocks but also in myself - changed everything.

I wanted them to see that starting their journey to financial freedom doesn’t require perfection. Just the willingness to take that first, imperfect step. 

And what a privilege it was to show them that investing isn’t reserved for those with six-figure salaries or advanced degrees anymore. It’s for anyone who's willing to believe in themselves and take action, because that’s how it begins: with one share, one spark, one choice to start.

And once you do, the compounding begins - not just in your portfolio, but in your confidence, your knowledge, and your belief in what’s possible.

It was about flipping a switch in their minds and moving from ,“This is not for me” to, “Wait… why not me?” 

To the Students: Thank You
Thank you for showing up - even when the skies opened up.
Thank you for your questions, your energy, your sense of hope.
It was a reminder of the importance of this work, and why it is such an honour to serve. 

And to anyone reading this wondering if they can do it too? 
You can. 
Just start. 

Because the most powerful investment you’ll ever make… is in yourself.