The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has concluded the finals of its 2025 Financial Literacy Speech Competition (FLSC), held on 17 October in Cape Town, celebrating a new generation of articulate and financially savvy youth. After a highly competitive series of regional rounds which saw more than 7000 learners from across the country, the nine top finalists gathered to showcase their insights on topics such as “From allowance to investment”, “Breaking the cycle,” and “The side hustle economy.”
The event brought together educators, financial experts, government representatives, and young changemakers to put a spotlight on the importance of financial literacy among youth in South Africa. “It’s important to remind ourselves that the lessons learned through this competition go far beyond the stage. Each year, the topics that learners engage with are carefully chosen to reflect the real financial challenges and opportunities that young people face today.” said the FSCA Commissioner, Unathi Kamlana in his keynote address.
Following an impressive display of public speaking and financial insight, three learners were named as this year’s champions:
- First place: Khanya Kasa from the Eastern Cape walked away with a total of R80 000 in investment prizes and a full bursary worth R580 000 towards her tertiary studies.
- Second place: Lerato Masakale from Western Cape walked away with a total of R60 000 in investment prizes and a R580 000 bursary towards her tertiary studies.
- Third place: Lerato Maduna from the Free State walked away with R50 000 in investment prizes and a bursary worth R580 000 towards her tertiary studies.
“When I hear such powerful voices and thoughtful perspectives from young people, it gives me immense hope that the future of our country is not just in capable hands but also importantly, in financially capable hands. And this, has been the vision behind the National Financial Literacy Speech Competition from the very beginning: to build a generation of young South Africans who are not only confident and articulate but also empowered to make sound financial decisions that shape their futures.” – Commissioner Unathi Kamlana.
The FSCA congratulates this year’s participants and recognises their courage.
Hitch Frenzy
Hans Karlsen grew a start-up from zero to $1.6 million revenues in first two years of operation. Over and above being a successful startup founder, Karlsen is a natural leader, enabler, engineer and negotiator with over 25 years of industry experience in a variety of high technology sectors. Karlsen has served as a CEO, managing director, board member, senior advisor and finance director (CFO). He describes himself as a “serial entrepreneur” with the drive, persistence, passion and ability to identify and pursue high-value opportunities.