What inspired you to become a financial planner?
I’ve always been fascinated by solving complex problems, and finance seemed to offer an endless supply of them. This applies not only to numbers and projections but also to how the law and people’s life experiences influence the final outcome.
My initial roles in financial services exposed me to various aspects of the industry, but I quickly realised that what truly energises me is helping people make sense of their financial world in relatable, easy-to-understand terms. I wanted to move beyond products and sales and focus on holistic, personalised financial planning — creating strategies that genuinely improve clients’ lives. That’s what led me to leave the corporate world and embark on my journey as an independent financial planner.
What prompts clients to come to you? Do you have a niche or distinctive value offering?
Many clients come to me when their financial lives feel complex or overwhelming — when they need someone to cut through the noise and guide them with clarity.
My distinctive value lies in combining a nerdy love of detail with an empathetic understanding of life’s unpredictability. I’ve been through my fair share of challenges, and that helps me connect with clients on a human level. I’m not here to lecture — I’m here to listen, understand, and co-create solutions.
Being part of a boutique practice, clients also value the personal touch and the reassurance of knowing they’re not just another file on a desk.
What do you believe is the most important thing you do for clients?
I help clients achieve clarity and confidence. Financial planning isn’t just about numbers — it’s about understanding where you are, where you want to be, and creating a roadmap to get there.
What are the biggest mistakes that you see clients make?
Three big ones stand out:
- Procrastination — delaying decisions because of feeling overwhelmed. I often joke and call this the “ostrich approach” to financial planning, but unfortunately, what you don’t see can absolutely ruin your day.
- Holding too much cash — many clients have too much of their capital allocated to interest-bearing assets. While this provides a risk-free return, it often leads to overlooked tax consequences and missed growth opportunities.
- The entrepreneur trap — as an entrepreneurially minded person myself, I understand that opportunities need to be pursued quickly. But when your financial plan lags behind, you risk leaving your loved ones to pick up the pieces.
A well-thought-out financial strategy should provide guardrails through uncertainty. My role is to bring clients back to that bigger picture when they feel snowed under.
How do you charge for your services?
We believe in transparency and fairness. Our fees are structured around the value we provide, rather than being driven by sales.
To achieve this, there are no fees for initial consultations, which allows both parties to decide whether we’re the right fit for each other.
We typically work on a combination of agreed-upon planning fees based on complexity as well as fees built into the product offering, should a suitable product match your needs.
What role does technology play in your practice?
Technology is central to how I work, as I service clients across South Africa. That said, balance is key — technology should enhance the human connection, not replace it.
While tools and tech help me analyse and plan, the heart of financial planning remains those one-on-one conversations — whether at your office, your home, or a local coffee shop.
I also make a conscious effort not to rely too heavily on tools, as I like to stay sharp when solving problems. Don’t be surprised if I reach for my trusty financial calculator during a meeting to crunch some numbers on the spot!
How do you utilize social media as a financial planner?
As a self-professed nerd, I’ve always had a soft spot for technology and innovation, but I wouldn’t call myself a social media guru.
That said, I’ve used social media to educate, connect, and engage. Through short-form videos and content, I aim to break down complex topics into bite-sized, approachable insights.
The goal is simple: to demystify financial planning and make it more relatable. Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook also allow us to showcase our unique approach and personality — proving that financial planning doesn’t have to be intimidating or dull.
What do you enjoy most about being a financial planner?
The impact. There’s nothing better than seeing a client’s shoulders relax when they finally feel in control of their financial future.
While I love solving the technical puzzles, what drives me is knowing those solutions make a real difference in people’s lives.
What are the biggest challenges you face as a financial planner?
- Navigating regulatory complexity while keeping advice simple and actionable for clients.
- Time — balancing the deep, technical work required for thorough planning with being present and responsive to clients.
- Helping clients cut through noise — from market volatility to conflicting financial opinions online.
What is the biggest change you have seen in financial planning during your career?
The shift from product-driven sales to advice-driven planning.
Clients are savvier today and expect a holistic, personalised approach. Technology has also accelerated this change by giving clients more access to information and planners better tools to deliver value.
What’s your one wish for the future of the financial planning profession?
That financial planning continues to gain recognition as a true profession — one built on trust, expertise, and meaningful client relationships.
I’d love to see a future where meeting with a financial adviser is something people look forward to, rather than dread — a constructive process that consistently delivers tangible, positive outcomes.
Key to achieving this will be distinguishing yourself as a true professional, which comes only through years of hard work, study, and proving yourself to be a cut above.
