Tennis, Strength training, Baking, Reading, Sewing
Unathi Silinga
Summary
An aspiring development finance professional with a strong academic foundation spanning Economics, Policy, Development Finance, Investment Management, Financial Modelling & Valuation Analysis, CFA Level 1 training, and Macroeconometric Forecasting. Known for translating complex data into meaningful insights that support sound business decisions. Combines sharp quantitative skills with strong interpersonal and communication abilities, a diplomatic approach to problem-solving, and the ability to master new concepts quickly. Equally comfortable working independently and collaboratively, with a proven ability to bring fresh thinking to every challenge.
Overview
5
5
Languages
1
1
Certification
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Intern
Morgan Stanley Investment Management (MSIM) Mentorship Program in Partnership With Entrepreneurs in Action (EiA)
United Kingdom (Remote)
06.2024 - 03.2025
- 1 of 55 young people selected globally to participate in the Morgan Stanley X Entrepreneurs in Action Investment Management Mentorship Program.
- Conducted comprehensive market research and analysed global ESG regulatory frameworks to develop a multi-asset global ESG investment strategy.
Data Surveyor
Urban-Econ Development Economists
Gqeberha
06.2024 - 03.2025
- Conducted mass data collection in the form of telephonic surveys and on-site visits, research and data sorting on a daily basis.
- Produced weekly data visualisation reports to effectively communicate collected and processed data findings to stakeholders.
- Analysed cross-group data correlations and translated findings into actionable insights to inform client business and marketing decisions.
Finance & Compliance Intern
Pepi Silinga Development Consulting Trust
01.2024 - 07.2024
- Performed VAT accounting and compliance management, ensuring accurate reporting and adherence to regulatory requirements.
- Compiled and maintained a comprehensive asset register across 13 properties spanning 4 cities.
- Oversaw the financial management of 5 student accommodation facilities, housing a combined total of 138 students.
- Liaised with universities to arrange payment schedules.
- Routinely conducted supplier reconciliations.
- Conducted thorough research on property investment opportunities in a new city.
Waitress
Black Impala Restaurant
06.2021 - 06.2022
- Gained on-the-go experience in a popular, high-traffic restaurant.
- Developed ability to multitask by having to assign equal priority to all customers' orders.
- Prioritised customer satisfaction at all times.
- Clear communication was essential to ensure the smooth-running of all orders, both in noting them down, and in passing them on to the kitchen.
Education
Postgraduate Diploma - Development Finance
University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB)
Cape Town, ZA09-2026
Bachelor of Commerce - Economics
Nelson Mandela University
Gqeberha, ZA04-2025
CFA Level 1 Training -
Financial Training Solutions
Sandton, ZA09-2023
Certified Financial Modelling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) -
Corporate Finance Institute (CFI)
10-2022
Investment Management Short Course -
University of Cape Town
04-2022
A Levels -
St John's College
Johannesburg, ZA12-2016
IEB Bachelor's Pass -
St John's Diocesan School For Girls
Pietermaritzburg, ZA12-2015
Skills
- Software: Microsoft (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint), EViews
- Data Visualisation: Canva
- AI: Claude, ChatGPT
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Pinterest, WhatsApp
Interests
Certification
Financial Modelling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) - Corporate Finance Institute
Credential ID 57834156
(Issued Sep 2022)
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
isiXhosa
Native or Bilingual
isiZulu
Full Professional
Afrikaans
Limited Working
French
Elementary
Timeline
Intern
Morgan Stanley Investment Management (MSIM) Mentorship Program in Partnership With Entrepreneurs in Action (EiA)
06.2024 - 03.2025
Data Surveyor
Urban-Econ Development Economists
06.2024 - 03.2025
Finance & Compliance Intern
Pepi Silinga Development Consulting Trust
01.2024 - 07.2024
Waitress
Black Impala Restaurant
06.2021 - 06.2022
Investment Management Short Course -
University of Cape Town
Certified Financial Modelling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) -
Corporate Finance Institute (CFI)
Postgraduate Diploma - Development Finance
University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB)
Bachelor of Commerce - Economics
Nelson Mandela University
CFA Level 1 Training -
Financial Training Solutions
A Levels -
St John's College
IEB Bachelor's Pass -
St John's Diocesan School For Girls