Nini and I met at University in Johannesburg, while we were both doing our undergraduate degree in Actuarial Science. The fact that we had chosen this degree already meant that we had a lot in common – we were both logical, ambitious, stressed-out overthinkers (as we still are!). While Nini and I were part of the same group of friends for most of the 4 years at university, we really got to know each other well when we both got our first jobs at PwC (Antonie is quite the match maker it seems!). We both got spots in the prized “corner desks” – good for privacy and bonding. And in that small corner we sat back-to-back for 3 years while Instant Messaging each other ALL DAY. Since then – from broken Excel models to boys – Nini has always been my go-to person and my “voice of reason”. I am convinced that I would make some serious money if I built an AI therapy bot using my chats with Nini from over the years (with Nini as the therapist of course). And while we have not lived in the same country for almost 5 years we still speak everyday – pretty much constantly. Since Nini is not a fan of huge displays of emotion, I will end by saying only this - it is one of the privileges of my life to call Nini my best friend and my person😊
For times when you absolutely must disagree with Nini make sure you have some data and/or evidence to support your side of the argument – Nini is strong minded and will only accept sensible, evidence-backed counterarguments. Reassure her in difficult times and let her know that you’ll be there no matter what - as much as Nini outwardly seems very strong and decisive, she also has a complex inner world where she will go back and forth a million times on many things (and it’s during these times she will need you most). I don’t say this lightly (and honestly, with very little bias) – you really have found an amazing partner (someone who is kind, smart, beautiful and tries – harder than anyone I know – to do the right thing) – so remember to take care of her and appreciate her (as you have thus far!)
