Ckolobe Ramaloko -
2021 PPS Graduate Intern
Currently: Financial adviser: PPS Advisory Services and Enablement

FROM INTERNSHIP TO

PERMANENT EMPLOYMENT

In February 2021, I started my 12-month internship at PPS as a graduate financial adviser. Since then, I have grown into my role as an independent financial adviser. I gradually developed more and more independence from when I first started up until now and the journey has taught me that I am responsible for the quality of work that I put out. I must hold myself accountable for every action because at the end of the day I am responsible for members’ financial well-being.

When I first started my internship, I was expecting to learn about what it is like to work in a corporate environment. My expectations, however, have been exceeded as during the duration of my internship I have also learned a lot of soft skills that have not only improved my abilities in my role but also my personal life.

This opportunity has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone which has birthed a lot of capabilities that I did not know I had. I am more patient, confident and persuasive than I ever perceived myself to be and can handle rejection from all walks of life.

My advice to someone starting a graduate programme is to be a sponge. To learn as much as you can about the role, company and field you are in. Network and connect with people who will help you get to where you would like to be in your career. Have a vision, but welcome change as you go along because with an open mind your path can adapt as you grow in your profession.

The PPS Foundation is committed to making a change in every graduate’s life, as it did in mine. Staff members care and are dedicated to ensuring that you grow even beyond PPS. The Foundation has also created a PPS family for me that I know I can go back to for advice even after I have progressed in my career. Once part of the family, always part of the family.