Rakkel Teofilus

AT work

At the commencement of my internship, I was particularly worried about whether I had the traits to successfully complete my internship and what picture I would paint for myself regarding my performance thereof. It was initially all overwhelming, but my mentor and line manager slowly eased me into the process. Tobias (my mentor) ensured I had constant interactions and continuous learning sessions that gave me an insight into the various processes and teams within Investment management and IS&P. From coffee breaks with my team members to coffee sessions with people from other teams, it all enabled me to build trusting and constructive relationships. Both Daniel and Tobias constantly emphasised on quality, diligence and time efficiency. All in all, everything I learnt at work summed up to the following:

Accountability of key tasks assigned to me;
Basic Banking Expertise; efficient and effective time management
knowledge and key application of systems ranging from Bloomberg, Morning Star to gaining a good command of Microsoft Excel.

My Swiss Host Family

GENUINE is the word I would use to describe my host family, but that would probably be an understatement too. Nevertheless, the Niederhauser family has been welcoming, kind and caring since Day one. I cannot begin to imagine how much of a challenge it must be to take in 2 strangers and create a home away from home for us, despite the unfortunate circumstances we might have found ourselves in. My host mom was, however, a really good cook and I will forever miss her warm hugs. My host dad, on the other hand, is an awesome narrator and an all-around father figure.

Highlights and Challenges in Switzerland

Highlights: First Snow experience at Mount Rigi with the other interns, Boat, Cable Car, Lucerne, Going to the prime tower amongst others.
Challenges: Despite the fact that being in a new country was all so overwhelming to an extent, my greatest challenge came about because of the workload from the University (Exams). Finding a balance between the 3(Work, Swiss host family and University) was somehow challenging and at some point, I worried about whether I would be able to successfully pull it off, but in such circumstances, faith in oneself was/is the key aspect.

My Future Plans

I plan to do my CTA in South Africa next year (2021) should there be any improvements thereof with the current pandemic. Thereafter complete my articles for 3 years with one of the Big 4 Audit firms (Deloitte, Namibia), after which I will be finding my feet in the audit industry and explore different opportunities there is out there.

Personal Message

Gratitude indeed is the sign of noble souls and the greatest of virtues. With that said, I would like to say my heartfelt gratitude and many thanks to B360, Credit Suisse, my host family and all stakeholders at large. Special thanks to: 1. Sabina for the potential you’ve seen in me; 2.Stephan for being a dad, a father figure; 3. Margrit for being a mom [those warm hugs kept me going]; 4. My mentor Tobias for grooming me into an accountable employable candidate; 5.Daniel-your mentorship will forever lead/leave a legacy. Thank you for making a girl’s dream materialise.