From your first job to your final day of retirement, wealth is a journey, one marked by major life moments and the financial decisions that shape them. In this premiere episode of The Wealth Journey podcast, host Nishlen Govender sits down with Citadel’s advisory experts Kirsten Smit and Elelwani Ravele to unpack the foundational financial milestones that set the tone for your future. Key Themes Covered: The power of a first salary: Elelwani reflects on her own first salary and shares why “paying yourself first” is a habit worth building from the very beginning. Budgeting basics: Kirsten breaks down how understanding your "ins and outs" is key to creating financial surplus and harnessing the magic of compounding. Discretionary savings & emergency funds: Why starting early, even at 19 matters, and how to build a solid financial safety net. Why see a financial advisor so early? Both guests emphasise the importance of sitting with a professional from day one to map out your life goals and create realistic, flexible plans. Investing in your future: Exploring asset classes, learning through mistakes, and knowing when to bring in the experts. Retirement reality check: With less than 10% of South Africans able to retire comfortably, the episode highlights why reverse-engineering your retirement goal is essential. First car, first home, first love: Practical and sometimes humorous advice on navigating first-time car ownership, entering the property market, and managing money in marriage. Whether you're just starting in your career, navigating your first big purchase, or beginning to think long-term, this episode is packed with relatable stories, expert advice, and actionable steps to help you take control of your financial life, one chapter at a time. Watch or listen now on Citadel’s website, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. Join the conversation and connect with a Citadel advisor at www.citadel.co.za Your wealth journey - guided by Citadel.