When did your interest in financial markets start?
My interest in financial markets began at a young age, during my primary school years. It was then that I took my first steps in managing my own money, and quickly became fascinated with budgeting, saving, and investing. I was fortunate to have my father as a mentor in this field, who nurtured my curiosity and shared invaluable lessons about the financial markets. As I grew older, this passion deepened, leading me to pursue financial subjects in high school and take charge of my own share portfolio. I sought every opportunity to gain practical experience, from vacation jobs to further guidance from my father. This journey solidified my commitment to the world of finance.
What did you study and why?
During university, I realized my drive for learning and developing new skills, particularly in understanding human behaviour. I pursued a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Investment Management, along with a second major in Psychology (Bachelor of Arts). This unique combination gave me a well-rounded perspective of the finance industry, blending technical expertise with an understanding of the individuals who shape it. To complement my education, I also took coding courses, equipping myself with tools to apply my ideas and knowledge efficiently. Looking ahead, I plan to complete the CFA Level 1 in 2025, continuing my journey to deepen my expertise in finance.
What do you think equips you to do this job properly?
My educational background, paired with my ability to connect with people and understand systems and behaviours, equips me well for my role as an investment specialist. The diverse skills and interests I’ve cultivated enable me to be a fast learner with strong attention to detail and a focus on efficiency. In a rapidly evolving industry, these traits allow me to adapt and thrive, ensuring I can deliver meaningful results in my role.
What do you love about investing?
I love that investing is far more complex than it initially seems. It’s a multifaceted discipline with an endless amount of knowledge to acquire, much of which extends beyond the act of investing itself. This complexity keeps me engaged and excited to continue expanding my expertise.
What do you find the most challenging part of your role to be?
The most challenging aspect of my role, which I find equally rewarding, is continually analysing and improving the processes I’m involved in. By driving greater efficiency, I free up more time for innovation, which ultimately contributes to generating alpha and fostering long-term success.
Why do you think clients will do well at Northstar and First Avenue?
The investment process at Northstar and First Avenue is both rigorous and distinctive, driven by a talented and collaborative team. Our team’s synergy and expertise across all stages of asset management ensure a thoughtful and thorough approach to investing, making it a rewarding experience for our clients.