EPPF is honoured to have once again been invited to engage with the latest cohort of Fezeka Graduate Trainees. During this engagement, the EPPF team provided a comprehensive overview of the Fund’s operations and the investment management value chain, offering graduates valuable insights into the role of retirement funds within the broader financial services industry.

We were also delighted to attend the graduation ceremony for the sophomore class of Fezeka Programme graduates. The programme now boasts an alumni network of 20 graduates, 90% of whom have successfully secured full-time employment, while the remaining 10% are in the final stages of interviews. Now in its third year, the Fezeka Graduate Programme has hosted a total of 28 participants. This industry-led initiative is aimed at enhancing the inclusion of black South African women in the asset management sector. By integrating theoretical instruction, professional development, and practical work experience, the programme effectively prepares graduates for sustained careers within financial services.

The duration of the programme has now been extended from 12 to 19 months. This extension allows graduates to take on meaningful work assignments, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for their CFA Level I examinations, all under the guidance of the programme. We are encouraged by the growing support for this initiative, with 27 companies now participating as sponsors and hosts. We take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to all sponsors, mentors, and host companies for their support and ongoing commitment to the success of the Fezeka Programme.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the sophomore class on the successful completion of the programme. We wish the current trainees and all alumni every success on their exciting career journeys. The EPPF looks forward to witnessing their valuable contributions to the investment industry.