Piet's journey: A Milpark Short-Term Insurance success story

Encouraged by colleagues who had studied through Milpark, Piet enrolled for Milpark’s Higher Certificate in Short-Term Insurance, which he successfully completed. “I was hesitant at first because I hadn’t studied in a long time,” he says. “I also worried about my age but decided to go for it.”

Piet then registered for Milpark’s Advanced Certificate in Short-Term Insurance, which builds on the Higher Certificate foundation and develops a deeper understanding of technical insurance practices and practical application skills.

Graduating with Milpark’s Advanced Certificate in Short-Term Insurance became a defining moment in Piet’s journey.

“When they called my name, time just stood still,” he says. “In that moment, I realised all the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication had paid off.” For Piet, graduating represented more than an academic achievement. It marked an important professional milestone as well.

“My Milpark short-term insurance qualifications strengthened my technical underwriting abilities in risk assessment, compliance, policy structure, and decision-making,” says Piet. Commercial underwriting is complex. It requires careful analysis of businesses, risks, losses, and compliance requirements while working closely with brokers.

For Piet, building strong broker relationships and maintaining client satisfaction remain central to successful underwriting. “And this is why I love my job at Dotsure Insurance,” he adds.

The South African insurance industry continues to evolve, making ongoing learning essential for professionals. This is why all qualifications offered by Milpark’s School of Financial Services, where its short-term insurance qualifications are housed, remain aligned with industry requirements through Milpark’s relationship with the Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA).

Milpark’s short-term insurance qualifications equip students with practical, industry-relevant knowledge and skills that add value in the workplace. As graduates apply their learning directly within their organisations, employers increasingly recognise the benefit of investing in employee development.

This is why Dotsure Insurance supported Piet’s studies — an investment that continues to deliver value in his role as a Senior Commercial Underwriter.

Read More: Milpark’s alliance with IISA.

Piet says Milpark’s flexible distance-learning model appealed to him. “I was able to balance work, studies, and personal responsibilities. The flexibility allowed me to manage my short-term insurance studies around my work schedule and apply what I was learning directly to my role,” he explains.

Piet also credits Milpark’s experienced lecturers and practical course content for making his learning experience manageable and relevant. “The lecturers were supportive, responsive, and always willing to help whenever I had questions. The practical examples made my learning real,” he says.

Today, Piet applies the knowledge gained through his studies every day – from risk assessment and compliance to underwriting decisions and policy interpretation. “I still refer to Milpark’s course material in my work,” he smiles.

Piet encourages prospective students – especially working professionals – to consider Milpark’s short-term insurance programmes. “Don’t let self-doubt or your age stand in your way. Never underestimate your ability to grow, regardless of your stage in life,” he says.

“You gain real value from studying because you can immediately apply what you learn at work and build confidence.” He acknowledges that balancing work, studies, and personal commitments can be demanding, but with Milpark it is possible.

“Hearing your name called at graduation makes it all worthwhile,” he says.

Read More: Milpark honours excellence in short-term insurance qualifications.

Outside of work and studies, Piet enjoys spending quality time with family and close friends. A proud father of two daughters, he prefers smaller, intimate gatherings over large crowds.

“I enjoy relaxing, spending time with family and friends, having a braai, and enjoying a good glass of wine,” he says.

Piet believes education is a lifelong investment that strengthens both professional growth and personal confidence. He encourages short-term insurance professionals to continue learning and investing in themselves.

His story shows that learning need not be limited by age or career stage. “Never think you are too old to study. Growth can happen at any stage of life.” And he lives by his words: next up for Piet is Milpark’s Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Short-Term Insurance.

Ready to grow your career in insurance? Register for a Milpark programme today.