Name: Andani Madzena
Title: Investment Analyst
When did you join Arise and what was your motivation for taking up this position?
I joined Arise on 1 April 2019, as a graduate trainee. I was then appointed as an Investment Analyst from the 1 April 2020. I had just graduated and at the time Arise was in the recruitment process for a graduate, so I applied. Based on the description of the programme it aligned with my interest in Financial Markets and Business Science given that I had no financial sector experience, secondly the organisation’s vision and investment area of focus in Sub-Saharan Africa was of great interest to me.
What aspect of your job do you most enjoy?
The aspect I enjoy the most is the research component of my job. I enjoy remaining abreast of all investment market development and trends and interacting with the Arise team on work-related projects.
What has your top 3 highlights been?
1. When I joined Arise, I kept a notebook with all my learnings and notes. I frequently reflect on these learnings and am always grateful for the knowledge and skills gained through the training programme at Arise.
2. I thoroughly enjoyed our strategic session with the Arise team in Utrecht in 2020.
3. Another highlight is the amazing year end functions with the Arise team.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
A very positive challenge is combining the different supporting roles, assistant to the (former) CFRO, supporting our finance manager with administration and taking care of all office related matters. I enjoy the diversity of the support I can offer. During my time at Arise, I have also learnt much about the differences between the Dutch and the (South) African approach in terms of dealing with organizational matters.
What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?
Managing the expectations of my colleagues.
Sum up Arise in one sentence
An organisation that consists of high-performance project teams, staff and management that work towards a common goal while also ensuring all teammates have a safe space to perform and grow.
