Prudential People - Anthea Angermund

A topic you’re passionate about (apart from investing)?

I am passionate about fighting inequality and spurring collective action between different market players, ranging from government, state-owned enterprises and unions to the private sector. I think a durable road to sustainable growth is premised on engaging all market stakeholders and effective communication and strategising. Lofty ambitions? Perhaps. But to try and fail beats not trying at all.

Tell us why you enjoy your role at Prudential.

What I enjoy most about working here (it’s been three years now) is being surrounded by people who constantly challenge and stretch me. I am very involved with our Namibian business and am afforded opportunities to filter into the decision making process, both on our portfolios and also through engagements with Namibian captains of industry. It may be a small drop in the ocean, but to instil change and build towards a healthier society, every little drop counts.

A recent favourite read? Why did you like it?

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. I don’t generally read fiction, but Wilde is extraordinarily witty and I really enjoyed him painting complex and thought-provoking life lessons with a very light and playful brushstroke. 

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

I was an intern in the research department of a stockbroking firm. I learned that the only way to still the naysayers is to keep getting better at what you do. I learned to let my failures fuel and not deter me. And most importantly, I learned that there is no substitute for hard work and discipline.

Which talent would you mostlike to have and why?

To sing, without making little babies cry…. There are few things that can calm and inspire the way a beautiful song can. Oh well, at least my shower never complains!

One thing you’re glad you tried, but would never do again?

A bottle-blonde pixie haircut. I had always wondered. And now I know that the end result is not a function of how nice the lady looks in the picture you take to the hair salon… eish! Lesson learned.

Where do you usually spend Saturday afternoons?

Outside. I love nature and outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to lazing around on the farm with a potjie on the coals. 

Best advice you ever received?

Eat the meat, spit out the bones. It is easy to become apprehensive when engaging with someone you don’t agree with. However, that also closes you off to learning from them. I think remaining teachable is key. Nobody has it all figured out, and opening yourself up to learning something from people different to you can be very rewarding. Sometimes the lesson is more about what not to do; and yes, some characters can be more bone than meat. But offence is taken; choose not to take it. Also, I am Namibian, so of course I would be more open to advice concerning meat.