In this episode of Open Books, Pamela Hellig sits down with Shaun Burger Smal — qualified actuary and Acting Chief Investment Officer at the Road Accident Fund — for a candid conversation about failure, fellowship, fairy tales and the very human side of the Road Accident Fund.

Shuan shares his journey from roles in Big 4 consulting, Netcare, Momentum Health to public sector leadership, where he now oversees complex loss-of-earnings valuations that materially impact people’s lives. He reflects on the very serious responsibilities of his role, while maintaining an upbeat and positive attitude that infiltrates his work and the way he runs his team. This balance of care and passion is what helps him effectively explain technical concepts to boards and Parliament, and ensure that every valuation is both rigorous and ethical.

He also speaks openly about failing exams on his Fellowship journey and how those setbacks shaped his commitment to supporting students. Through exam counselling and mentorship, he helps actuarial and university students separate identity from results, strengthen exam technique, and build resilience after failure. His message is clear: growth happens long before the qualification certificate arrives.

And the golden thread woven through this heartfelt conversation is the collection of books that have shaped Shaun’s life and outlook: find out how Hermione Granger determined his career path, where actuaries and fairy tales intersect, and how dental floss can inspire creative storytelling.

Shuan’s Book Picks

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone – by J. K. Rowling

The Tales of Beedle the Bard – by J. K. Rowling

Actuarial Fairy Tales: Statistically Significant Stories – by John Lee

Aspiring Actuarial Leaders: The Modern Manager's Toolkit – by Julia Lessing

Am I Overthinking This?: Over-Answering Life's Questions in 101 Charts by Michelle Rial

Connect with Shuan Burger Smal on these platforms:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-burger-smal-55b28b24/

Insight LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/

Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/