Effort Gotora – Graduate Trainee (Underwriting) recently received an award for attaining the highest marks in 2 of his CII exams which he sat for in 2017.  He was awarded the Barnfield Prize.  We caught up with Effort to get to know him a bit better and understand what makes him tick.

 

Tell us a bit about yourself.  What defines Effort as a person?

I am a multi-skilled insurance resource with excellent knowledge of life insurance processes in Underwriting, Claims and Premium Accounting. I have an inquisitive mind towards work which I believe helps in improvement of processes and eagerly wanting to learn new things all the time. I possess advanced analytical skills and have an unrelenting tenacity towards solving problems. I am still single and come from a family of five. Graduated with Honours Degree in Risk Management and Insurance from NUST currently I am about to complete my CII associate Level studies. I am currently working as a Graduate Trainee -Underwriting where I am responsible life underwriting and Reinsurance functions.

 

What would you attribute your excellent results to?

Flexibility to be able juggle demanding work tasks and academic studies. Hard-work, perseverance, zeal for success and ambition.

 

What motivates/ inspires you?

I am motivated by producing the best in my endeavours, be it academic, work or social programmes. Whatever I touch, I want it to turn into gold.  I enjoy solving complex problems at work and home. I have also realised that I have passion to help colleagues to develop and achieve their goals.

 

What are your career aspirations? What is the next step in your journey?

I would like to build my conceptual skills by moving from technical side on insurance studies to leadership and strategic courses. I haven’t quite made a decision on my next studies. I am still weighing on the best leadership course to embark on as well leadership books.

 

What word of advice/ motivation would you give you give to fellow colleagues who are also embarking on the academic journey?

Time and money will be enough, but one needs to learn to sacrifice and make commitment to the set goals. So many challenges along the way, but determination is of paramount importance.

 

What is the most crazy/ exciting thing that has happened to you since January 2018?

Being incorporated into the leadership structure at my church and also this accolade I received from CII FOR my outstanding performance.

 

Who is your role model? Why?

Minister SB Moyo. His sterling role on the 15 November leadership change operations and his subsequent marvellous work in his ministry still baffles my mind.

 

What do you do for fun or in your spare time?

I read books, and I am a Liverpool fan and interacting with people.

 

If you were stuck in a remote place; and a friend could bring you 3 of your favourite things what would they be?

Novels, my Karibu Wine and my girlfriend.