Empowering the next generation of financial leaders is a core focus for EasyEquities. That vision came to life during a recent visit to the Maharishi Invincibility Institute (MII) by Nicola Comninos, Group Chief Investment and Risk Officer at EasyEquities, and David Oberholzer, EasyETFs Business Manager. Addressing a vibrant group of Financial Markets and Finance (FMA) students, the EasyEquities team shared insights into the evolving world of investing, with a strong focus on ETFs, collective investment schemes, and the broader landscape of asset classes.
Who is Maharishi Invincibility Institute?
The Johannesburg-based institute is a pioneering educational organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of underserved youth by providing access to world-class education and personal development. With its holistic approach, MII empowers students to become leaders in their communities and industries, offering accredited qualifications and work experience opportunities across sectors such as finance, technology, and business. This mission aligns closely with EasyEquities’ goal of making financial markets more inclusive and accessible for all South Africans.
The event served as a platform to share the mission behind EasyETFs, EasyEquities, and the broader Purple Group - highlighting how these platforms are breaking down barriers to entry and making investing more approachable for young South Africans. Through open dialogue, students were encouraged to explore diverse career pathways in the financial industry and gained clarity on commonly misunderstood topics, such as the differences between unit trusts and ETFs.
But it wasn’t just about sharing information. The day was also defined by mutual learning and meaningful engagement. Nicola and David took part in authentic conversations with students about their investment journeys, the challenges they face, and their aspirations within the financial world. These exchanges underscored not only the importance of financial education but also the real-world impact of equipping youth with the tools to build lasting financial freedom.
“It was a privilege to engage with such an amazing group of young finance professionals and learn how they currently engage with the financial markets. The constructive discussion around their investment needs and feedback on how we can make their ETF investment EASY excites me!” said David. Moments like these highlight the importance of inclusion, education, and empowerment as key drivers of South Africa’s financial future.
If there’s one thing the day reminded us of, it’s that the journey to financial freedom begins with a single step - and there’s no better time to start than today. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or simply curious about investing, start small, stay consistent, and watch your portfolio grow over time.