Learning to become financially independent and work towards becoming financially healthy can seem like an impossible task sometimes. However, Marie Nel, administrative assistant at Vadersgawe, shares her story about how Picsa helped her take control of her finances and save towards her future.
Picsa is a financial services provider that offers simplified wealth creation solutions designed to help low-income workers become financially healthy. From the day we meet our clients face-to-face during our workplace presentations, we journey with them by guiding them and providing solutions to overcome debt and save for emergencies and for the future.
Says Marie, “At first I wasn't sure about Picsa's way of saving, but after talking with my husband and my brother, I decided I was going to try it myself. My brother works for another farm and is very positive about Picsa.”
Our product offering includes a range of investment options tailored to various financial needs, such as budget-friendly funeral plans, responsible lending solutions, and a one-of-a-kind loyalty program that rewards good financial choices.
Marie continues, “I first took out a funeral policy from Picsa, and then started with a short- and long-term savings plan. I have benefited from all three of these products. The beauty of saving with Picsa is that it requires me to apply for withdrawals on the first of every month, thereby instilling a sense of discipline. If I forget, I miss out on accessing my savings for that month.”
Our goal is to give low income workers control over their finances, and saving, even in small amounts, is key to achieving this. By saving, employees are able to build financial health, allowing them to handle unexpected expenses without crisis or feeling the need to take out an unsecured loan. Marie recalls such a time in her life. “My mother died, and I was able to apply for a claim. It took me ten minutes to do the application, with the best help from Picsa. It wasn't even a day later and the money was in my account. I bragged to all my coworkers about the great service. I still encourage people to use Picsa's policies.”
At Picsa, we believe that we have the responsibility to ensure that all South Africans have access to savings products, irrespective of their income, as well as affordable insurance and access to responsible credit. In time, we want to see every South African start saving to build financial security for themselves and their families.
Marie shares how Picsa has helped improve the financial health of the staff at Vadersgawe. “Picsa has helped us become financially mature as adults. Parents can now take care of their families, both in season and out of season. Our Xhosa team members all saved up to go home to the Eastern Cape, and they didn't use their bonus for that. The children's school clothes and stationery can also now be purchased in cash without using loans.”
"With Picsa, people have money any time of the month. I remember a time when one of our team members managed to save R900 every week. During this time, there was a particular week when he had only R40 left after saving and taking care of other expenses. When I expressed concern, he assured me he'd manage just fine. Picsa helps you stay disciplined and committed to your financial goals.”
Marie concludes, “Employer partners do not make a mistake in giving Picsa a chance to help their people to empower themselves financially. Vadersgawe's people now have more wisdom and insight around finances.”
At Picsa, we dream of seeing the lives of low income workers in South Africa flourish. If you’re interested in digging deeper and learning more about helping your employees become financially secure, contact us. We’d love to partner with you.