reminded ourselves , cyberattacks are not a case of if , but rather of when . As a result , we were fairly well prepared . Core systems on the life and investments side were not affected and there was no leakage of data . Our early alert measures ensured that we could contain the damage and mitigate any lasting effects . But the attack still placed a huge strain on teams .
After months of incredible grit , this experience is now behind us — thanks to a team who gave their all . They now need to recuperate , and we are chasing people home to recover and recharge . One thing I am surer of than ever : We have an incredible team at PPS , willing to walk the extra marathon ( never mind mile ) for our members . It was humbling to see how people were willing to put their bodies on the line . Literally .
This will not be the last cyberattack that PPS will experience — there will be more . That being said , we have learned much over these past few months . We can share these learnings . My plea to members is : Do not underestimate cyber risk , whether in your personal capacity , your practice or business . We face a common enemy . Read more about this threat on page 11 . I would like to , yet again , thank our members for their understanding and support over the past few months . It was understandably frustrating when service levels dropped and when things took longer to do .
On a positive note : earlier this year , PPS partnered with the worldrenowned global explorer , Riaan Manser , to send five matrics on a five-day trip to Antarctica . On page 15 , one of these matrics , Thea Earnest , shares some thoughts on how this trip changed her life and what her plans for her future are .
As I have mentioned in the previous edition , 2021 is the year in which PPS celebrates its 80th birthday . I reflect on this milestone on page 18 .
Due to the nature of our bespoke solutions for professionals , financial advice is part of the package and we always rely heavily on our intermediary partners , both internal employees and external financial advisers , to serve our members . It remains a tripartite relationship between member , adviser and PPS . On page 27 we discuss the shift in the alignment of wealth investments to specific social and environmental impact .
History is a personal hobby of mine , I just love to investigate how our interesting and diverse world was shaped over the years , and our book review on page 36 features
A History of South Africa by Frank Welsh . On page 30 we also cast the spotlight on Imbi Evenhuis , one of our members . And as always , we feature some UCook recipes on page 31 .
Our PPS Foundation continues to support on many fronts , especially assisting the youth through these challenging times . On page 40 we discuss the importance of mentorship . Young people need mentors ( as we all do from time to time ), but they can of course also mentor many of us on the fascinating world of millennials .
I trust that you will find this edition of The Professional again enjoyable and value-adding .
PPS Group Executive
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