Henda Kleingeld, Programme Director for the Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning at the University of the Free State's (UFS) School of Financial Planning Law (SFPL), has been awarded the prestigious FISA Chairperson Award for her remarkable contributions to the fiduciary profession. The award, presented by the Fiduciary Institute of Southern Africa (FISA), recognises individuals who have made significant and lasting impacts on the fiduciary landscape.

‘Moment of disbelief and deep gratitude’

"The award announcement is unique, because no one knows who the nominees or winner might be,” Kleingeld said. “As the chairperson, Dr Eben Nel, began to read the recipient's bio, it slowly dawned on me that it was about me. It was a moment of sheer disbelief. I was honoured and humbled to be recognised in this manner, and found it hard to contain my emotions. It's one of those moments you cherish forever, and I am deeply grateful for this prestigious honour."

Contributions to fiduciary landscape

The FISA Chairperson Award acknowledges outstanding contributions to the fiduciary profession, and Kleingeld outlined her role in developing and registering the Advanced Diploma in Estate and Trust Administration at the School of Financial Planning Law. This unique programme is currently the only one endorsed by FISA as the academic requirement for obtaining the Fiduciary Practitioner of South Africa (FPSA) designation. "Its rigorous curriculum equips aspiring fiduciaries with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of estate and trust administration, ensuring that they provide their clients with the highest standard of care,” Kleingeld said.

She also highlighted the international recognition the programme has received, including meeting the stringent requirements of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), a global professional association that sets the bar for excellence in fiduciary practice worldwide. Kleingeld expressed her deep commitment to the programme, stating, "For six years, I took on the responsibility of running the FPSA Board Examinations in South Africa for the FISA. This involved overseeing the administration of these rigorous exams, ensuring the fair and consistent assessment of candidates nationwide."

A journey rooted in legacy

Kleingeld’s path was shaped by her father's legacy. She said he dedicated his career to the fiduciary and insurance industry before he passed away when Kleingeld was just 21 years old. However, he ensured that she and her mother were well cared for, and due to his experience and planning, the administrative burdens of his passing were handled with the utmost care and sensitivity. 

"After working as an attorney for a short while, I realised that the smooth transition we experienced when suffering such an immense loss is unfortunately not in the cards for too many people. It was then that I realised that I wanted to specialise in this niche area of the law, the fiduciary space. Ending up at the UFS was a blessing, allowing me to discover my true passion – postgraduate education."

Balancing recognition and humility

Addressing the importance of peer recognition in her profession, Kleingeld said, "While I have never been one to seek accolades, I am deeply honoured that my efforts have been acknowledged. However, I must confess that I am also experiencing a touch of impostor syndrome. After all, I am just a person who loves what I do, striving to make a positive impact in the lives of others."

Guiding future fiduciaries and embracing change

Offering advice to aspiring fiduciaries, Kleingeld emphasised the importance of genuine motivation to assist others. "By upholding this principle, you set yourself on a path to success, fulfilment, and happiness – a combination not many professions offer."

As for her plans to use her influence and recognition to promote the growth and development of the fiduciary profession, Kleingeld highlighted the dynamic work environment at the School of Financial Planning Law. "These are things that we would have done regardless, but the exposure that this award provides, combined with my current dynamic work environment, provides me with the ideal platform to connect with a diverse range of individuals and collaborate to deliver postgraduate programmes that are not only cutting-edge but also profoundly relevant to the modern world."

She revealed plans to integrate financial psychology into the School’s courses and explore the realm of AI-powered learning experiences, emphasising the importance of staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and learning methodologies.

Kleingeld expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to shape the minds of future leaders. "I cherish the freedom and support provided by the SFPL, enabling me to delve into uncharted territories of education, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to shape the minds of future leaders."