Protecting lives through insurance

Keanen Feris serves as a financial adviser at Sanlam. He assumed the role in 2021 after leaving a similar position at Old Mutual Namibia in 2020. He said the transition has been the best decision ever.

The financial adviser has a sole goal to spread the word about insurance and help people understand its countless benefits.

He indicated that most people only consider insurance when acquiring property or tending to an ill loved one.

“I want them to understand that insurance is an indispensable safeguard for unforeseen circumstances. Like George Ellis said: 'It's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it'."



Background

Feris grew up in Windhoek and attended Windhoek High School. He later moved to Rehoboth and matriculated at M&K Gertze High School in 2013. He made his debut in the finance industry at 20 when he joined Eon Property Services as an accounts controller in 2014. At the time, he was pursuing a diploma in accounting and finance from Lingua International Training College, where he graduated in 2016.

Later that year, he joined Karen’s Trading Enterprises, his parents’ construction company. “I was a foreman, accounts controller and a driver. I met new faces every day.”

A year later, Feris joined Sense of Africa as a creditor's controller. They had a debtor’s clerk position open six months later, which he joyously assumed.

“I got to work with the tour guides to and from several tours with clients. When Covid-19 hit in March 2020, I sadly had to leave and stayed unemployed during the pandemic. I had recently gotten married in 2019 and had two beautiful children. So, when a friend asked if I would be interested in an opportunity with Old Mutual, I went for it!”



Empowering financial futures

Feris’ responsibilities include assisting clients with a financial needs analysis to determine their needs upon death, disability and severe illness. With multiple options available, he utilises his 'open-door policy' to ensure his clients get the best option suitable for their needs.

“I prioritise punctuality and being available whenever my clients need me. Our options are not limited to savings and investments, we offer retirement planning, wills and post-retirement plans as well. Financial freedom for clients and their families is our cornerstone,” he said.

His advice to aspiring financial advisers is this: “Understanding how money works at a young age is very beneficial. It's a lesson that often isn't taught in school. As a financial adviser, clients should be able to trust you as they trust their doctor".

"There's a saying that lists three individuals you should never lie to: A doctor, a lawyer and an accountant. I believe there's a fourth addition to this list: A financial adviser. These are the people closest to your money and your goals.”