What are your expectations of QEP?
I am hoping to learn more about banking as a whole, and how working in such an industry would be like. I am also hoping to meet and network with many new people, as I believe they will have valuable insights to share and I hope to learn something new.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm means to always consider the best possible outcome or choice in a matter, even if it pushes beyond societal expectations or current norms. Sometimes the best solution may be the most unconventional one, and it is important to look to those with an open mind.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
My dedication to bringing new ideas and solutions to already established scenarios. I believe in thinking innovatively, and constantly considering new approaches.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
Strawberry cheesecake. Sweet and classic at first glance, but actually a more rich flavour profile than expected, with a variety of textures that always keep one on their toes.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I expect the CASE/ QEP to be an immersive experience, offering a deeper understanding of the role of a Quant Analyst and the practical insights required for a career in quantitative and capital risk management. I’m eager to explore how mathematical models and data-driven decision-making shape the banking industry and look forward to collaborating with like-minded peers and industry leaders. I hope to come away with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that will bridge my academic background in Applied Mathematics and Statistics with the practical demands of this field. Additionally, I aim to build valuable connections with professionals and peers, creating a network that can support my career growth and open doors to future opportunities in financial analytics. This experience will also give me a chance to envision my own impact in this dynamic field.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm means setting my own standards for growth, rather than limiting myself to conventional expectations. It’s about consistently challenging myself, embracing learning opportunities, and not settling when things get tough. For me, it’s reflected in how I’ve tackled my studies in Applied Mathematics and Statistics, even when things felt overwhelming, and in my commitment to self-improvement through internships, mentorship, and volunteer work. It means aspiring to make an impact that goes beyond my individual achievements to positively affect those around me and my community.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I’m a young difference maker because I’m dedicated to using my background in mathematics to make a meaningful impact in my community. Through mentoring, volunteering, and continually advancing my own knowledge, I strive to share my skills in ways that empower others. I believe that even small acts of kindness and support can drive significant change, and I carry this mindset into all my community efforts. My aim is not only to grow in my career but to create opportunities for others to thrive, inspiring those around me to realize their own potential and contribute to positive change.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
If I were an ice-cream flavour, I’d be cookies and cream a balanced blend that’s both classic and unexpected. The layers of cookies represent the resilience and strength I’ve built through overcoming academic and personal challenges, while the creamy sweetness reflects my passion for empowering and uplifting others, as I do in my mentoring roles. Together, these elements capture my ability to combine determination and compassion, bringing warmth and inspiration to any situation.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I have two main expectations:
1. To engage with and learn as much as possible from industry leaders and experts. I am incredibly excited that I will be able to learn directly from people who are in the field, and more importantly, to learn about their motivations, process of working, and impact on the world.
2. To engage with like-minded people who also have a passion for solving problems. The recruitment process was tough, so I know the other participants are certainly individuals who are both talented and work hard. I am excited to build a network with them and our mentors throughout the programme. Overall, I expect it to be one of the most valuable learning experiences of my career. I would hope to have some sort of challenge or tasks to complete related to what we learn as well to put any knowledge we gain into practice.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
To me, pushing beyond the norm means using the definition of "excellence" as the definition of "success". There are often standards or goals that we are expected to meet, either in academia, industry, or any other aspect. It is usually sufficient to simply meet those goals in order to be "successful". To me, pushing beyond that means that I should think about my main motivations and why am doing whatever it is I am doing, and form a metric for success that always exceeds the standard norm to push from "success" to "excellence". For example, achieving a GPA of 75% or above is usually considered good, but to me, that is unsuccessful. 90% or above is considered excellent, so that is what I consider to be successful. Even then, as long as it is possible to do better, the job is not done. In everything I do, from my academic work to professional and personal relationships, I always keep this idea in mind. Sacrifices will have to be made, but with a sufficiently strong motivation, excellence is always possible.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I believe I am a young difference maker because I strive to engage in initiatives that promote positive social change. On a more personal level, I always try to seek out the best in and encourage others. For example, I was part of an initiative to encourage more female students to engage in mathematics by recruiting as many female speakers as possible for the mathematics society at UCT. Another example would be during tutoring, where I always give students pointers to additional research papers or journals that they might find interesting to encourage their growth beyond the scope of the course they do. Overall, I believe inclusivity - in all the forms it takes - is a net positive cause; everyone gains something when everyone is included, empowered, and enriched. In all the work I do and problems I hope to solve, part of my motivation is solving problems that promote inclusivity. Only by doing so do these sorts of problems have any real significance to me.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
Vanilla. If I'd been asked this a few years ago I would've said something more exotic like lemon-blueberry-cheesecake or something of that sort, but recently (as in, since coming to university) I have really fell in love with the elegance of simplicity. Mathematics is a large part of my life; it motivates my sense of curiosity, and some results are so profound that it influences the way I choose to live my life. More often than not, the solutions to the most complicated problems happen to be astoundingly simple. There's a beauty about keeping things simple that I now try to enforce in my life. Consequently, when making decisions, I try to keep things as simple as possible; make logical decisions based on simple motivations. After all, highlights shine brightest against a blank canvas.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I would like to gain greater insight into the roles of Quants in the world of finance, and how my skills in Actuarial Sciences can be transferred/adapted to such roles.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
When every logical indicator is pointing towards giving up, that is when it is up to you to use your will and determination to push yourself just that little bit further. Afterall, as Al Pacino once said, "Life is a game of inches".

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am a naturally inquisitive person, which leads me to question and dissect every formula/process I come across. This allows me to build a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that drive certain results that many of us take for granted, and means that I am able to spot where and when such mechanisms break down. This is of critical importance in industries such as finance where historically the treatment of a model as a "Black box" who's inner workings were not be questioned has resulted in economic disaster, the ramifications of which are still being felt today.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
Mint, since it is unexpected and refreshing!

What are your expectations of QEP?
My main expectation for the program is to gain a deeper understanding of quantitative finance and explore how the mathematical knowledge I have acquired throughout my academic career can be applied in this field. With a strong foundation in applied mathematics, particularly in numerical methods, I am eager to see how these analytical techniques are utilized in real-world financial applications such as financial modelling, risk management, and algorithmic trading. I expect to gain hands-on experience with advanced mathematical models and assess their effectiveness in solving real-world problems. Additionally, I look forward to being exposed to the complex and dynamic challenges faced by quantitative analysts in high-stakes financial environments. I am especially interested in how the mathematical models and simulations I work with in my studies of plasma fluids can be adapted to the problems of pricing financial derivatives, managing risk, and optimizing portfolios. This experience will help me transition from an academic setting to a professional role, where I can apply my technical skills in a meaningful and impactful way.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
To me, pushing beyond the norm is about striving to surpass standard expectations and constantly challenging myself to achieve new heights. It involves stepping outside my comfort zone, taking calculated risks, and pursuing excellence in every endeavour. It also means embracing innovation and creativity, questioning the status quo, and remaining open to fresh perspectives. Ultimately, it’s about transforming challenges into opportunities and continuously seeking ways to improve and excel.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
What makes me a young difference-maker is my unwavering curiosity, commitment to continuous learning, and a deep passion for using my skills to drive meaningful change. As an applied mathematics student, I’ve honed strong problem-solving abilities, especially in numerical methods, which I believe can be applied to tackle complex, real-world challenges. For instance, my work on plasma fluids has taught me to approach difficult problems with innovative thinking, resilience, and creativity. As a young professional, I’m eager to contribute fresh ideas, adapt to new environments, and focus on continuous improvement. I firmly believe that by staying curious, embracing challenges, and challenging the status quo, I can contribute to positive change whether that’s within a team, in a professional context, or in the broader fields of finance and innovation. I’m committed to both personal and professional growth, constantly seeking opportunities to learn and make an impact.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
If I were an ice cream flavour, I would be a blend of vanilla and caramel. Vanilla represents my strong foundation and reliability it’s classic, balanced, and versatile, much like my approach to problem-solving and working within different disciplines. The caramel adds a layer of depth and complexity, reflecting my ability to approach challenges creatively, with a touch of innovation and sweetness.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I hope to learn more about what a quant is and how they use their skills to contribute to financial services. I'm expecting to learn a lot from various talks we may have and to network with peers and quant professionals.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
It means looking further into the finer details to provide insights that are creative beyond what you see.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am a driven individual who is always looking to learn from individuals or a team of people. Most importantly, always looking for an opportunity to contribute.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
Pistachio flavour. I'm an introvert and because of this it does take a while to get to know me, which relates to that it's the kind of ice cream that you'd have in small servings while taking your time to eat it. The ice cream has nutty bits to it, which represents my inner extrovert - it's unexpected but pleasant.11

What are your expectations of QEP?
My expectations for the QEP is to gain more insight into the banking world and into Nedbank as an organization. I look forward to working alongside other passionate individuals and forming lasting relationships with them. Being given the opportunity to interact with and be mentored by the highly esteemed professionals at Nedbank, is very exciting for me. I cannot wait to see how this experience will contribute towards my career growth and also my personal growth.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm means breaking the boundaries that have been placed by society on people, redefining things for yourself and trying to find ways to do things differently with the goal of producing different results. It's all about going above that glass ceiling that has been placed by society on people.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
What makes me a young difference maker is that I am a dedicated individual who is a quick learner and is constantly willing to learn new things. I enjoy solving complex problems. I pride myself in being a team player because I possess excellent people skills. I always use my leadership skills to be of service to those around me.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
If I were an ice-cream flavour, I would be chocolate flavoured ice-cream because I am an enthusiastic individual who loves trying out new things and is always seeking to learn from things that I experience. I would describe myself as a lover of life, and therefore I partake in things that allow me to live my life to the fullest.

What are your expectations of QEP?
To have a comprehensive and practical understanding of the nature of work that quants are particularly faced with. To build a network that could impact my professional growth in the future.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm for me means going over and above of what is expected of you within a particular context.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am very creative, collaborative and very practical person which makes me a person who is difference maker in endeavours I pursue.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I would be a chocolate flavour. This is because the chocolate adds richness and depth to the ice cream through its sweetness.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I am excited to join the CASE/QEP program with an open mind and a lot of enthusiasm. I'm looking forward to diving into some practical challenges, having some fun along the way and getting a real feel for what this career path could look like. I'm hoping to learn a lot and meet people who share similar interest, all while pushing myself to take on new tasks and ideas. This experience should be a great blend of growth, discovery and connection.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Well for me " pushing beyond the norm" means, going for something despite all the odds that are against you, it means going for something that might seem a bit far-fetched for you and still trying to be the best in it or trying to get the best out of it but in short, for me it just means going for something regardless of what seems or what doesn't. This involves not only persisting through challenges but also staying open to the possibilities of growth and learning through each experience.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I believe what makes me a young difference maker is my genuine desire to make an impact and my commitment to learning and growing from every opportunity. As a go-getter, I take proactive steps to make a difference, whether it's through volunteering or supporting others. For example, at university, I served as a peer counsellor helping fellow students navigate challenges and make more informed decisions. I also tutored first and second-year students, contributing to their academic growth and helping them overcome obstacles. I am also very inquisitive and always looking for new ways to learn whether it's through conversations with those around me or by seeking out opportunities for personal development. I believe that learning is not only about gaining knowledge but about applying that knowledge in ways that can positively impact others and my community. My goal is to continue developing myself while actively contributing to the growth of others around me, making a meaningful difference wherever I can.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I would be a vanilla ice-cream. Vanilla may sometimes be seen as simple or even overlooked, but it's a classic for a reason, it brings a full rich flavour that's always enjoyable anytime. It's timeless, dependable and straightforward meaning you can have it anytime of the day, or in whatever mood, you'll still enjoy it. Sometimes you don't need to over complicate things, rather simplicity and consistency makes the strongest impact.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I expect the Quant Exploration Programme to give me practical experience in quantitative finance, using advanced tools and methods to solve real-world problems in risk management, asset pricing, and predictive modelling. I’m excited to learn from experts, work on meaningful projects, and apply data and math to support smart decisions in finance.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
To me, pushing beyond the norm means always aiming for improvement and innovation, even when things are uncertain or complicated. It’s not just about solving problems but also about spotting them early, finding better ways to do things, and refining strategies to get the best results. In QEP, this means using data and advanced analytics to challenge the usual way of doing things and create solutions that benefit both clients and the business.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am a young difference maker because I have strong skills in quantitative analysis and a passion for using them to solve real-world problems. Whether it's building machine learning models or advanced statistics, I focus on making data useful and practical. I’m always eager to learn and take initiative, which helps me contribute to Nedbank’s goal of creating innovative and sustainable financial solutions.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I would be chocolate ice cream, it’s reliable, balanced, and universally appreciated. It reflects my steady, analytical approach and my ability to adapt to different situations while consistently delivering results.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I am eager to gain hands-on experience in applying quantitative analysis to solve real-world financial challenges. I expect to expand my skills in data analysis, risk modelling, and machine learning, especially in areas that relate to my research interests, like credit risk. Additionally, I look forward to learning from experienced mentors and collaborating with like-minded peers to explore innovative approaches in finance. My goal is to deepen my understanding of how quantitative techniques can drive smarter, data-informed decisions within Nedbank.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm means challenging conventional boundaries, setting high standards, and continuously pursuing growth and improvement. For me, it’s not just about meeting expectations but looking for ways to innovate, especially where analytics and real-world problems intersect. It’s also about resilience and maintaining a mindset open to learning and evolving, which I believe are essential qualities for making a meaningful impact.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am a young difference maker because of my drive to combine data with social impact. From mentoring students in statistics to planning on researching how climate change affects credit risk, I’m passionate about using quantitative skills to make a real-world difference. Whether helping peers understand data analysis or supporting youth through NGO work, I aim to leave a positive mark. I’m dedicated to applying analytics for meaningful insights and sustainable solutions that benefit communities and align with Nedbank’s vision of creating value beyond profit.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I would be a vanilla flavoured ice-cream. At first, vanilla might seem simple, but it has depth and versatility it’s a classic that complements just about any other flavour. Like vanilla, I bring a grounded, adaptable approach to my work, blending well in team settings while staying focused on the essentials. Vanilla bean also has a few subtle notes, which reflects my dedication to going beyond the basics, exploring details, and adding value in a way that may not be flashy but is always reliable and meaningful.

What are your expectations of QEP?
Solving complex problems by applying my skills and knowledge.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
It involves constantly challenging myself to grow and improve, whether through learning new skills, taking on difficult projects, or finding innovative solutions to complex problems.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
What makes me a young difference maker is my dedication to using my skills and knowledge to create meaningful, positive change.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I’d be mint, refreshing, adaptable, and full of energy. Mint is cool and invigorating, just like my approach to problem-solving and new challenges.

What are your expectations of QEP?
My main expectation for the Quants Exploration Program is to gain insight into the real-world cases and challenges that Quants tackle daily. While I have a background in personal data science and automation projects, I’m eager to dive deeper into the financial domain and see how quantitative methods are applied in real business scenarios. I’m looking forward to developing new skills, working on practical financial cases, and gaining a clearer understanding of the impact of quantitative work within a major institution like Nedbank.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
To me, pushing beyond the norm means refusing to settle for conventional solutions. It’s about continually challenging myself to innovate, leveraging data and automation to create smarter, more efficient outcomes that make a measurable impact.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I’ve always been passionate about creating impact through technology, having started coding and diving into machine learning from a young age. My experience ranges from developing predictive models to building automation solutions that enhance productivity and streamline tasks in various industries. This foundation in data science and problem-solving has fuelled my desire to leverage quantitative methods to make a meaningful difference. I’m excited to bring this background to the Nedbank Quants Exploration Program, where I aim to contribute innovative ideas and insights that drive impactful financial solutions.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
If I were an ice cream flavour, I'd be Mocha Espresso Crunch. This flavour reflects my blend of analytical depth, focus, and a strong drive to keep moving forward, much like the energy of a good espresso.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I’m really excited to connect with industry leaders and get practical experience with the quant role at Nedbank. I’m looking forward to learning about both the technical side and the culture, meeting other participants, and building strong connections with peers and mentors. I look forward to immersing myself in Nedbank’s culture, learning as much as I can, and embracing any challenges that come my way. I am also expecting to have fun, be present and enjoy every moment of this amazing journey.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
To me, pushing beyond the norm starts with challenging my own limits before comparing myself to others. It’s about setting a goal, knowing that the only real barrier is myself, and moving forward with the right mindset. It means not letting self-doubt hold me back and staying focused on my why as my motivation.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
My love for people makes me a young difference maker. We live in an unequal world, and while we can't solve all the issues, I believe we can make a difference with the opportunities and abilities we have. Someone once told me that instead of feeling guilty for what we have, we should make the most of it with humility. That stuck with me and drives me to positively impact the lives of those I can reach.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I’d be strawberry. At first, I thought it might seem too basic, given all the unique flavours out there. But then I realized that strawberry has a classic charm it's simple, sweet, and loved by many. So if I were an ice cream flavour, I’d be the classic, cute strawberry flavour.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I am expecting to learn more about what a Quant does and immerse myself in the Nedbank culture.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
It means going above and beyond what most people would do and taking initiative.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am someone who cares a lot, I enjoy giving back to the community, and pride myself on standing up for what’s right. My passion for positive changed coupled with my technical and analytical skills give me the means to help make a difference in this world.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
Dark chocolate raspberry (because it’s the best vegan one) and because it’s reliable and always a treat to have around.

What are your expectations of QEP?
In this program, I can expect an intensive introduction to the quants field with practical exposure to real-world problems. I would love to engage in hands-on projects and case studies applying different programming languages to optimize portfolios. I am also hoping to meet and network with industry professionals and understand their journeys in the corporate world. I am also eager to show my dedication and motivation to this field and I believe this program will offer me the solid foundation I need.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm for me means going above and beyond. It means stepping out of my comfort zone to, to question conventional approaches and aiming for excellence and adequacy. It means seeking out an additional learning responsibility beyond what is required. Looking for creative ways to solve problems, and most importantly continuing to push forward even when faced with setbacks.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
In my academic career, I have studied quite challenging courses. The courses moulded me into always being ready to solve complex problems and models. I gained a unique blend of curiosity and an analytical drive for the financial world. I am also a dedicated hard worker. My willingness to experiment with strategies and solve complex problems has turned me into the hard worker that I am that does not quit until I figure out the solution. I believe perseverance is what we all need to achieve great results.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I would be a vanilla ice cream. Vanilla is usually considered simple, but is actually a classic. Vanilla symbolizes my adaptability, allowing me to pair well with a range of topics and projects, from statistical modelling to portfolio optimization. And just as vanilla brings out the best in other flavours, my foundational skills and curiosity are the perfect base to build on, making be both reliable and ready to take on any challenge.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I’m looking forward to the Nedbank Quants Exploration Program as an opportunity to apply my analytical and problem-solving skills in a real-world banking context. I’m excited to bridge my engineering background with finance, especially in areas that require strong quantitative and technical skills, like data analysis and risk modelling. This program will give me insight into how the principles I’ve learned in engineering such as systems thinking, optimization, and data-driven analysis are applied to solve complex financial problems.
I’m particularly interested in seeing how Nedbank utilizes quant tools and models to make informed decisions in areas like risk management and investment strategies. I hope to gain a solid understanding of the practical applications of quantitative analysis in finance, and I see this program as a crucial step in helping me refine my technical skills and identify areas within quant finance that align with my strengths and interests as an engineering student. Above all, I’m looking forward to connecting with industry professionals and expanding my career outlook beyond engineering into the world of quantitative finance.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
For me, pushing beyond the norm means refusing to limit myself and always staying open to exploration. I believe in challenging expectations and going beyond what’s comfortable or typical, whether it’s in my studies, my career path, or personal growth. I love the idea of discovering new perspectives and skills, and I’m driven by a need to not just understand the basics but to really dive deep and master what I set out to do. It’s this mindset that keeps me motivated to seek out new opportunities, knowing that each experience is a chance to expand what I’m capable of and bring something unique to the table.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
What makes me a young difference maker is my drive to constantly push beyond what’s expected and to bring value wherever I can. I don’t see challenges as limits but as opportunities to grow and contribute. My curiosity fuels me to explore different fields, from engineering to finance, and my resilience keeps me moving forward even when things get tough. I believe that real impact comes from combining knowledge with a passion for problem-solving, and I’m committed to finding ways to make a meaningful difference whether it’s through the work I do, the skills I develop, or the people I support along the way.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I’d be cookies and cream. It’s a classic, approachable flavour that’s still interesting with a bit of texture and depth. I think it reflects how I try to balance being ambitious and driven with being down-to-earth and easy to connect with. Plus, just like cookies and cream, I enjoy mixing things up and exploring new things without losing that grounded side.

What are your expectations of QEP?
My expectations are to gain insight and hands on experience into the world of Quantitative analysis, to network and engage with other bright young difference makers, and to learn as much as I possibly can about whatever is on offer.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm to me, put simply means to excel. It means to take what task you have been given and to put your all -and then some- into it. Pushing beyond the norm is all about going the extra mile, doing an extra hour of work at the end of the day, doing things even when you don't feel like it. It is the corner stone of excellence, as you have to first go beyond the norm before you can be great.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am enthusiastic in all that I do. I love learning and trying new things. I love solving problems, and uplifting others to do the same. I am a strong leader, often taking the reins and being proactive. I am empathetic and have a high level of emotional intelligence. I am accountable and able to admit my shortcomings. Most importantly I am ready to make a difference in the corporate world and prepared to work as hard as I need to make my way to the top.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I would most likely be a dulce de leche flavour. This is because it is quite hard to know what you are getting simply by looking at it. It is only after you break through the surface that you are surprised with the lovely reward of dulce de leche underneath. this is much like me as there is a lot more than first meets the eye.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I expect the Nedbank QEP to provide an immersive experience in quantitative analysis within a banking environment, giving me a deeper understanding of how data-driven decisions are made in the financial sector. I look forward to learning directly from industry experts, developing technical skills relevant to banking, and expanding my problem-solving abilities by working on real-world financial challenges.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm means challenging myself to go beyond comfort zones and conventional approaches, seeking creative and data-driven solutions even when they are complex. It is about setting high standards, learning continuously, and making decisions that do not just follow trends but create meaningful impact, whether academically, professionally, or personally.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
My journey so far has taught me resilience, independence, and adaptability, and I channel these into making a positive impact on those around me. As a student leader and tutor, I have been able to support my peers and advocate for student needs. My commitment to both my personal growth and that of my community positions me as a young difference-maker who seeks to inspire and uplift others while pushing the boundaries of whatever is possible.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
II would be a coffee-flavoured ice cream. Coffee brings energy and focus, just as I bring dedication and a fresh perspective to each project. It is also a blend of boldness and warmth, much like my approach to problem-solving which is strong, focused, and supportive of those around me.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I expect to learn a lot more about the Quantitative Analyst field of work. I expect to engage with professionals in their field, meet new potential colleges and get a better understanding of the career I am going into.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Pushing beyond the norm to me means to think outside of the boxes that society places on us. To dare to challenge yourself to do new things and think bigger than you ever thought you could before. To not just settle for "this is how we have always done it and will continue to do it this way because it works".

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I am a young difference maker because I am a hard-worker who likes to challenge the norms and find more efficient ways to do things. I always like to be learning something and engaging with people who have different views to my own. I like thinking out the box and working in a team and with these qualities I will be a young difference maker.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
I would be Tin-Roof ice-cream. Full of delicious goodness because of all the different things like nuts and chocolate in the ice-cream. I have many good qualities that make me unique and different like this ice-cream. I am dependable but always have a little extra chocolate up my sleeve.

What are your expectations of QEP?
Learning, networking, and having fun.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
It means pushing yourself to your best capabilities, being resilient and being able to bounce back every time life throws a stone.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
My eagerness to learn and absorb new knowledge each day.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
Vanilla, because it is simple, flavourful and straight to the point.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I hope that QEP will help me understand what a quant professional does and how I can apply my skills in a banking environment. I'm looking forward to meeting industry professionals and fellow students, learn from them and get to know them better, as I believe these connections will be valuable for my future. I also want to improve my practical skills through hands-on activities and learn more about Nedbank's culture. Overall, I am excited to explore what a career in quantitative finance could look like for me.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
To me, "pushing beyond the norm" means not just going along with what everyone else is doing. It is about trying new things and being willing to take risks, even if it feels a bit uncomfortable. Whether that's in my studies or everyday life, I think it is important to challenge myself and explore different perspectives. It is about finding my own path and being okay with making mistakes along the way.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
What makes me a young difference maker is my willingness to speak up and take action on issues that matter to me. I believe in the power of small changes, whether it is helping classmates understand tough concepts or getting involved in community projects. I am not afraid to share my ideas and collaborate with others to find solutions. Plus, I am always looking for ways to learn and grow, which helps me bring fresh perspectives to the table. Overall, I aim to make a positive impact, even in small ways, every day.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
If I were an ice cream flavour, I would be cookies and cream. It is a bit classic but still fun, just like me. I enjoy mixing things up and trying new ideas, and cookies and cream has that perfect blend of smooth and crunchy. Plus, it is a crowd favourite, so I like to think I can get along with just about anyone. Overall, it reflects my easy-going nature and love for collaboration.

What are your expectations of QEP?
My expectations for the CASE/QEP are to gain a comprehensive understanding of quantitative techniques and their applications in the banking industry. I am looking forward to practical, hands-on experiences that allow me to see how quantitative analysis is used to inform strategic decisions, assess risk, and innovate within financial services. Additionally, I hope to connect with professionals and peers who share an interest in data-driven Insights, which will help me build a solid foundation for a future career in quantitative finance.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
To me, pushing beyond the norm means challenging myself to go beyond what's comfortable or expected, embracing growth through continuous learning and resilience. It's about setting higher standards, questioning conventional limits, and finding innovative ways to tackle challenges. Whether it's taking on a new project, refining my skills, or stepping outside my comfort zone, pushing beyond the norm is a commitment to excellence and to becoming the best version of myself. It's the mindset of not settling for average and instead aiming to make a meaningful impact.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
What makes me a young difference maker is my commitment to using technology to solve real-world problems, particularly in healthcare. I am passionate about applying my skills in IT to create solutions that improve lives, whether it's through AI for medical diagnosis or community-based initiatives that address pressing issues. My experiences in leadership roles have taught me to drive projects forward, collaborate effectively, and inspire others toward a shared vision. Combined with my volunteer work and community involvement, I strive to make a positive impact wherever I can, believing that even small actions can create lasting change.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
If I were an ice cream flavour, I would be cookies and cream. It is a classic favourite, blending a smooth vanilla base with unexpected crunchy bits of cookies representing a balance between adaptability and a little bit of surprise.

What are your expectations of QEP?
I'm expecting to tackle interesting case studies, to peek into the world of quantitative analysis and to network.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
Looking for ways outside of your current circumstances to get something done and or using the cards you were dealt with to your advantage to be better instead of letting them get you down.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I care about helping everyone I'm my community, I hate to see anyone go without especially if there is something I can do about it, and if there is nothing, I can do to help I'm not afraid to look for someone who can help.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
Vanilla ice cream, it goes great with every other flavour (it's friendly) ,it is dependable, and it elevates any desert you pair it with, all while being delicious on its own.

What are your expectations of QEP?
To explore quantitative financial concepts and build a minor foundation for advanced quants studies.

What does pushing beyond the norm mean to you?
It simply means there is no limit, and you can go the extra mile to achieve excellence at any cost.

What would you say makes you a young difference maker?
I have determination to succeed, good leadership skills and a believer that teamwork makes the dream work.

If you were ice-cream, what flavour would you be and why?
If I was an ice cream flavour, I would be pistachio as i am unique and sophisticated and loved by many but rare to find.