For many people, actuarial science is a complex and intimidating field. However, author and actuarial scientist Tawonga Gapu is changing that perception through her debut book, Risk Personified, which blends actuarial principles with relatable, everyday experiences.
Gapu says the book is built on the belief that risk is something everyone encounters daily.
“Risk is not an abstract concept. It is personal, woven into the fabric of our daily lives,” she said.
A graduate of the University of Zimbabwe, Gapu told Standard Style that she drew inspiration from Smart Money Woman by Arese Ugwu, a novel that uses storytelling to teach financial literacy while exploring issues affecting women.
“I was inspired by Smart Money Woman. It is a story-based book that met me where I was financially through a character named Zuri. I appreciated how Arese linked different aspects of women’s lives while seamlessly teaching readers about finances,” she said.
“That made me think about answering people's questions about actuarial science in the same way. I am often asked about the profession and degree, sometimes unexpectedly, and I am not always in the right headspace to explain it in simple terms. I realised a story could do the trick.”
Through Risk Personified, Gapu explores actuarial concepts by connecting them to everyday decisions and life experiences.
“One of the concepts that has resonated most with readers is opportunity cost, which is the next best alternative you give up when making a decision. It is often discussed in economic terms, but I relate it to our daily lives and the trade-offs we make,” she said.
She also examines risk behaviour and how it shapes people's choices.
“We all have default settings in how we approach situations. Actuaries use policyholder behaviour to determine pricing structures, while investment professionals use risk behaviour to recommend suitable investment portfolios. I encourage readers to understand their own behaviour towards risk because what you are not aware of, you cannot monitor.”
Publishing the book required significant personal sacrifice. Gapu revealed that after exhausting other funding options, she sold some of her personal belongings to finance the project.
“I had to think outside the box when it came to raising money. My parents helped me a great deal, but at one point I had to sell some of my possessions,” she said.
“It was scary approaching people and offering my belongings for sale, and it was emotionally draining because I did not make a sale every day. But whenever I did, I felt encouraged.”
Gapu said one of the greatest challenges in writing the book was maintaining the discipline to write consistently.
“It is one thing to have ideas racing through your mind, but it is another to dedicate time every day to turn those ideas into something meaningful,” she said.
She has no plans to stop writing.
“I enjoyed the entire process, and inspiration continues to guide me. There is so much to draw from in this world, and I will definitely write more books.”
Risk Personified is available in hard copy at Innov8 Bookshop and Bhuku Store. It is also available digitally on Akello Library under its publisher, Chance Inc.