In today’s financial planning profession, transformation is essential. The FPI Education & Training Fund Trust is positioned as a catalyst for meaningful change.
The Trust, launched on 4 September 2025 in Johannesburg, exemplifies the Financial Planning Institute’s ongoing dedication to inclusion, accessibility and professional standards. While its long term impact continues to develop, the Trust’s purpose is clear: expanding pathways into financial planning and empowering future professionals across South Africa.
Structured approach to transformation
Addressing ongoing calls for transformation within the financial planning profession, the Trust bridges aspiration and implementation. As an independent legal entity governed by external trustees, the FPI Education & Training Fund Trust is dedicated to broadening access to education and professional credentialing opportunities.
Its scope encompasses:
- Bursaries and internships for eligible students
- Support for work-integrated learning (WIL)
- Assistance for mid-career professionals who require financial support to pursue designations such as the CFP®
- Development programmes targeting structural inequalities
Donors benefit from Section 18A tax certificates, offering both social and fiscal incentives for supporting the Trust.
Foundation and leadership
The inception of the Trust was informed by the strategic vision of former FPI leaders, including Prem Govender, Sankie Morata, Navin Ramparsad and Kirsty Scully, each recognising that sustainable transformation requires more than commitments; it demands robust, long term infrastructure.
Guided by its independent trustees, the Trust has moved beyond conceptualisation to become an active agent for change. While it operates independently from the FPI Board, the Board remains a strong advocate of its mission, with the Trust’s establishment forming an integral component of FPI’s approved Diversity and Inclusion strategy. According to FPI Board Chairperson Olwethu Masanabo, CFP®, the Trust represents “a promise to the next generation of financial planners and to the communities they will one day serve.”
Evaluating Impact
Although awarding bursaries is significant, FPI adopts a comprehensive approach to assessing impact. Key metrics include:
- Completion rates of educational programmes
- Attainment of designations such as the CFP® professional designation
- Placement and community engagement outcomes for beneficiaries
- Documented cases of personal and professional development
Plans are in place for regular public reporting to uphold transparency and accountability while maintaining a focus on meaningful progress.
Momentum and sector engagement
Following its launch, the Trust has received positive feedback from corporate stakeholders and members, many of whom have expressed interest in long term collaboration. Media coverage on platforms such as Blue Chip, FAnews and Citywire has further raised awareness of sector challenges and solutions.
The Trust’s objectives align with broader national priorities for transformation in financial services, promoting professional development grounded in principles of equity and sustainability.
Addressing challenges
Despite a well-defined mandate, the Trust encounters practical challenges:
- Sustaining funding beyond initial launch phases
- Creating equitable and unbiased selection processes
- Reaching underrepresented rural and township communities
- Providing comprehensive support, including mentorship, training, and career integration
FPI regards these challenges as integral to the Trust’s mission. Proactive efforts to address them will ensure the Trust’s enduring impact.
Invitation to collaborate
For professionals in retirement, pensions and financial services, the Trust offers a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of the profession. It serves to democratise access to financial planning education and cultivate a workforce reflective of South Africa’s diversity.
All stakeholders – corporate entities, advisory practices, individual professionals, and training providers – are encouraged to participate. Donations can be made online at www.fpi.co.za with all contributions acknowledged via 18A tax certificates or by scanning the QR code below:
Progress in motion
The process of transformation is underway. True impact extends beyond symbolic achievements; it entails altering the demographic composition of the profession, replacing exclusion with opportunity, and fostering a sector where every capable South African can pursue a career in financial planning.
With collective support, the FPI Education & Training Fund Trust is poised to drive lasting and effective change.