At just 25 years old, Mahia Alfereti reflects on her transformative journey towards long-term financial planning and responsibility. Hailing from Oinafa in Rotuma, and with family connections to Vanuabalavu in Lau, Mahia is carving out a successful career as a graduate actuarial analyst at BSP Life. However, she openly admits that adopting a forward-thinking mindset wasn’t an inherent trait for her.
During her earlier years, Mahia faced challenges with uncertainty, often deferring decisions until absolutely necessary. “I was the type to put things off,” she recalls, focusing more on immediate tasks than on future planning. This perspective experienced a significant shift after she entered the professional world, where the topic of life insurance became increasingly relevant.
Initially, Mahia regarded life insurance as a remote concept within the realm of financial planning. It was only after transitioning from student life to the corporate sector that she began appreciating its significance. “My focus shifted to building my life as a young professional,” she explains, acknowledging the difficulties of achieving financial independence while navigating the demands of her new career path. Given her status as a recent graduate, Mahia was particularly concerned about affordability as she was just beginning to establish her savings.
Upon receiving a quotation for a life insurance policy, she carefully assessed her options, deliberating on the potential impact on her finances. For the first time, Mahia visualized her long-term ambitions, which included aspirations such as purchasing a home, providing for future children, and planning for retirement.
In her decision-making process, Mahia sought guidance from her parents, whose support proved vital. To her surprise, she found out that her father was already a satisfied customer of BSP Life with several policies. This knowledge bolstered her confidence, and after a month of evaluating her choices, she settled on her policy terms.
The decision also resonates with Mahia’s cultural values, which emphasize community and mutual support. “The ‘it takes a village’ culture greatly influences how I view my role within my family and community,” she shared. Her aspiration to be a pillar of support for others is a guiding principle, particularly regarding the reciprocal support she hopes to receive during life’s inevitable trials.
Mahia underscores that her decision to secure life insurance was as much about a mental shift as it was about a financial investment. “Taking on a life insurance policy was one of the first major financial choices I made independently,” she notes. This milestone not only empowered her but also broadened her understanding of the landscape of securing her financial future.
For fellow young individuals embarking on their financial journeys, Mahia offers straightforward advice: “Say yes and just get started.” She stresses that dwelling on uncertainties can hinder progress, encouraging others to take proactive steps towards their financial well-being.
Through Mahia’s narrative, it’s evident that embracing financial planning fosters personal growth and empowerment. As more young professionals reflect on their financial futures, inspiring stories like hers promote a collective movement towards greater responsibility and enhanced community support.