Yamkela started investing early, but it was the loss of a loved one that pushed her to protect what she was building.
Back in 2016, while juggling lectures and late-night assignments, Yamkela made a decision most people put off until they’ve “figured life out.”
She started investing.
It began with a single share, a company she’d researched through the Young Investors Programme. A small step, but one that lit a bigger fire. “I wanted to build a secure and independent future for myself and my family,” she says.
Even then, her goals stretched beyond numbers on a screen. It was always about something deeper.
“Financial freedom, helping my loved ones, and having control over my future. That’s what it’s really about.”
Fast forward a few years, and Yamkela’s still investing. But something’s changed. She’s no longer just focused on building wealth...now, she’s protecting it too.
What changed?
The loss of a loved one.
It became a financial wake-up call. That moment forced her to reconsider what she was working so hard to build, and what would happen to it, and the people she love, if something happened to her.
“There was definitely a moment that made me stop and think. After my late favourite person’s death, I realised just how fragile life can be. That experience gave me the push I needed."
And that's when she also reached out to get a life cover with EasyProtect.
She didn’t want the intimidating fine print or exhausting admin. She just wanted peace of mind, something she could put in place quickly, without medical checks or waiting periods.
“This was my first time getting a life cover, and honestly, it felt intimidating. But EasyProtect changed that. The experience was so straightforward, I never felt overwhelmed or unsure of what I was signing up for. The idea of lower premiums as my investment grows was a game changer for me.”
The digital process surprised her too.
“I loved how quick and effortless the quote process was. No endless paperwork, no delays. And the fact that I didn’t need a medical check? That was a cherry on top.”
“Cover that grows with me? That’s when it clicked.
EasyProtect was built with investors in mind, people who are still building, still learning, still growing.
Her advice was just start. Even if it’s small. Even if you don’t have it all figured out.
To her, investing and life cover are two parts of the same journey, one builds the future, the other protects it.
“You don’t have to know everything. Start small, learn as you go. And protect the life you’re building, even if it still feels like a work in progress.”
Because the truth is, life won’t wait for you to feel ready. But you can still show up for the people you love, even in the moments you’re not there.
“And that’s what EasyProtect gave me, not just cover, but a plan. A plan that grows with me.”
And maybe that’s the story more of us need to hear...that it’s not just about what we leave behind.
EasyProtect Life is a life insurance product underwritten and administered by Sanlam Life Insurance Limited, a licensed life insurer, and is offered exclusively on the EasyEquities platform for distribution by EasyEquities. EasyEquities is an authorised FSP, registered credit provider and licensed ODP.
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