Delegates
Mozaffari Amin
My name is Amin and I am a 21-year-old with a strong passion for trading and financial markets. I moved to the UK alone at the age of 16 as an immigrant, without any knowledge of English. Since then, I’ve built everything on my own learning the language, adapting to a new culture and progressing through the education system. In just four years, I’ve not only become fluent in English but can now speak four languages fluently. I am currently pursuing my university studies and am deeply focused on becoming one of the best traders in the UK. My interest lies in understanding the psychology of money, financial systems and long-term wealth creation. Outside of academics and trading, I enjoy reading books,especially on finance and self development, going to the gym and listening to insightful podcasts. These hobbies help me stay mentally and physically disciplined, which I believe is key to success in trading and in life. Professionally, I’ve had several successful trades that have fuelled my confidence and vision. I’ve also taken the entrepreneurial route by founding my own handcrafted leather goods brand, combining creativity with business. My journey has been far from easy but every challenge has strengthened my ambition and resilience. I am determined to keep growing, both personally and professionally and to make a lasting impact in the trading world.
Yeva Starova
I have always loved mathematics and problem-solving. In my Sixth-form I achieved Best in Year Silver Certificate in UKMT 2022 and Best in School Silver Certificate in UKMT 2023. I also completed a JPMorgan Chase Investment Banking Job Simulation on Forage to dive into the DCF model calculation of the M&A target valuation. Now, I have started a Quantitative Trading Internship at Commerzbank, where I learn from the eFX Analysis and Trading desk by creating analytical and descriptive models in Python. Beyond academics, I am co-developing a board game, designing gameplay mechanics and characters, which sharpens my creativity and project planning skills. Outside of work and studies, I enjoy horse riding, yoga, oil painting, global politics and economics.
Melita Crasta
As a first-generation university student studying Chemistry at Imperial College London, I bring a unique perspective shaped by resilience, curiosity, and a drive to break barriers. My academic foundation includes advanced modules in Python programming, mathematical modelling, and quantum mechanics. These have equipped me with strong analytical and technical skills that are highly applicable to both trading and technology. I have actively explored these interests beyond the classroom. Through trading simulations with Optiver and Citi, I applied market-making and execution strategies in high-pressure environments. I was also selected for a global crypto investment competition with ImperialDAO, where I contributed to research, portfolio strategy, and pitch presentations. Professionally, I have interned at GSK and the Rosalind Franklin Institute, where I built automated data tools and analysed complex biomedical datasets. These experiences developed my coding abilities as well as communication and project management skills. I have taken part in insight days and spring weeks with Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Redington, and others. These opportunities broadened my exposure to financial markets, risk, and investment consulting. Outside of academics, I volunteer as a STEM Ambassador, tutor A-level students, and serve as Treasurer for four university societies including Data Science and FinTech. I am passionate about making STEM accessible and enjoy podcasting, skydiving, and playing classical guitar. With a blend of technical acumen, hands-on experience, and a deep interest in trading systems, I am excited by the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute at Mako Insight Day.
Aaron Ong
I’m a second-year Physics student at the University of Nottingham, pursuing an integrated Master’s degree. My academic interests include quantitative trading and investment banking. I was previously one of 11 analysts in the university’s Finance Society Investment Fund, working in the Financials Division, and one of 25 members in both the Technology Division and the Quant Division. I’m excited to be joining Upsilon Family, a venture capital firm, as an incoming intern this year, where I’ll gain experience in early-stage investing and startups. Outside of academics, I’m active in the Athletics Society and previously played first-team rugby and football at sixth form. Music is also a big part of my life; I play piano at Grade 7 and violin at Grade 8 and have been involved in the university orchestra. I also have a deep interest in astrophysics, particularly in extreme phenomena and cutting-edge research.
Ziggy Harrison
I’m a Mathematics student at the University of Nottingham with a strong interest in quantitative trading and research. I’ve always enjoyed tackling complex problems, which led me to focus on probability and statistics, during my degree. As Director of the Quant Society, I get to share this interest with others and work on applying theory to real market challenges.
I’ve built up experience through internships at Capstone Investment Advisors, Black Pomegranate, and Palantir Technologies, where I worked on everything from statistical risk models and systematic strategies to Python frameworks for backtesting and portfolio monitoring. I also enjoy the competitive side of trading, I placed 10th in the UK at IMC Prosperity and performing strongly in Akuna Capital’s trading challenge.
Outside of academics, I’ve always been driven by sport. I used to play national-level basketball before switching focus to academics during the pandemic, and now I train in Muay Thai. The competitiveness, resilience, and discipline I learned through sport are the same qualities I bring to trading, where I’m especially drawn to the fast-paced and evolving nature of options market making.
Anita Pergel
Working student with two years of hands-on experience as a Quant Strategist intern, contributing to front-office trading and analytics through data-driven modelling, automation, and market data infrastructure. I’ve worked closely with trading desks to build scalable tools and uncover actionable insights, combining technical precision with market intuition. Academically, I graduated with top-ranked performance in Mechanical Engineering, where over 95% of my coursework was quantitative, spanning programming (C, C++, Python), statistics, calculus, and machine learning. I also completed a Master’s-level course in Artificial Intelligence in Data Science during my BSc. I was honoured with the Imperial Excellence Award for both academic achievement and contribution to the community. Alongside my technical work, I’ve proactively explored the world of finance, participating in the Goldman Sachs Women in Structuring Insight Event, Citadel Securities Datathon, and Citi’s Female Mentorship Program, all to deepen my understanding of derivatives, valuation, and trading strategy. These experiences have reinforced my aspiration to build a career in Sales & Trading, where I can combine analytical thinking with fast-paced decision-making. Outside of academics and finance, I’m passionate about fencing and karate, both of which have taught me discipline, focus, and resilience, qualities I bring to everything I pursue.
Anjolaoluwa Awe
My name is Anjolaoluwa Awe, a driven and analytical Mathematics undergraduate at the University of Nottingham. With a strong academic foundation in problem-solving and data analysis, I’m passionate about applying quantitative thinking to real-world challenges and contributing to dynamic, people-focused environments. I’ve developed valuable professional experience across both educational and commercial settings. As a Mathematics Tutor at Sandwell Learning Centre, I worked with over 15 students aged 12–16, tailoring support to the GCSE curriculum and helping 90% achieve grades 7–9. I also gained customer-facing experience as a Sales Consultant at The Fragrance Shop, consistently exceeding targets through confident, insight-driven engagement. Leadership and service are key parts of who I am. I currently serve as Treasurer of the Nigerian Society and Social Media Manager for my church’s Youth Ministry, where I’ve grown our content to over 136.6K views. I’m also a mentor with Zero Gravity, supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds in their academic journeys. During sixth form, I was a Maths Prefect and co-founded the Christian Union at my school, creating spaces that encouraged both academic support and spiritual exploration. Outside academics, I enjoy creative work, mentoring, and community involvement. I’m particularly interested in consulting, data analytics, and quantitative finance, and I’m actively involved in societies such as SEO London, the African-Caribbean Society, and the Economics & Finance Society. I value curiosity, collaboration, and making a meaningful contribution, and I bring focus, empathy, and energy to every opportunity.
Afet Asadov
I’m a London-based quantitative-trading enthusiast currently studying BSc Mathematics at Queen Mary University of London, predicted First-Class Honours. A financial setback midway through my first degree pushed me from the lecture hall to live markets: at InvestAZ I coded option-market-making scripts to save up for my studies, and the industry hooked me. Since then I’ve managed systematic crypto book at AZ Holding, engineered liquidity-aggregation algorithms for Gaulport Capital, and completed IMC Trading’s Launchpad . I placed 3rd in G-Research’s Quant Challenge and 6th in Capula’s Trading & Coding Challenge contests that reward clear thinking under time pressure, and I hold a Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award . Away from the desk you’ll find me by Heathrow’s perimeter fence plane-spotting or hand-flying instrument approaches on a flight simulator, exercises in situational awareness that feel remarkably like tracking order flow in a volatile market. I play chess for the past 14 years; the game still shapes my pattern recognition and endgame patience, while regular live-tournament poker sessions at Genting Casino in Stratford keep my probability intuition and risk discipline razor-sharp. I’m also fluent in English, Azerbaijani, Russian and Turkish, I thrive in diverse environments trying to understand people’s context and cultural differences.
Osama Ahmed
I’m deeply driven by strategy, competition, and long-term thinking. I focus on trading, poker, and strategy games like Civilization because they reward discipline, foresight, and an ability to read complex systems. I study incentives, search for edges, and apply game theory principles across everything I do. My crypto portfolio has performed very well, reflecting the time and effort I’ve put into building conviction, analyzing risk, and staying consistent with my approach. I follow the data closely, test ideas, and refine strategies with a clear focus on outcomes and process. Trading for me is about more than returns. It is a way of thinking and improving how I handle uncertainty and opportunity. I enjoy football both as a fan and as a player. The game gives me a chance to push my physical and mental limits in a competitive environment. I also spend a lot of time playing poker, which has helped sharpen my ability to make decisions under pressure and manage risk effectively. I treat these interests as serious parts of my development. I care a lot about getting better in every area of life. I read, study, and work on new ideas daily. Self-advancement is something I live by. Whether it’s learning a new skill, building a new model, or improving my decision-making process, I am always looking for ways to evolve.
Ivan Islam
I’m a Computer Science undergraduate at UCL with a strong academic background, currently averaging 82%, and previously achieved 4 A*s at A-Level, placing in the top 1% nationally. I have a keen interest in quantitative finance, algorithmic trading, and applied data science, with experience that bridges both technical development and strategic analysis. Currently, I’m an IT Intern at The Hartford, developing SQL and SSRS-based business reporting solutions. Previously, I interned with AXA XL in Global Treasury, where I worked with large datasets in Excel, tracked over 100+ correspondences, and conducted research into the insurability of emerging markets such as space tourism. During a Spring Insight at McKinsey & Company, I collaborated on a digital transformation case study, gaining exposure to agile strategy and client-oriented problem solving. My finance-related technical projects include: QuantPricer: An option pricing engine using Monte Carlo and Least Squares Monte Carlo (LSM) in C++ and Python. SmartSignal-AI: A Python-based trading signal generator using Random Forests and technical indicators. Global Stock Screener: Inspired by Benjamin Graham, supporting 100+ markets for value-based equity screening. Beyond academics, I’m a Computer Science Ambassador at UCL, promoting diversity in tech through mentoring and workshops. I also led a consulting team via Practera, crafting a 5-year digital strategy for a non-profit. I’m particularly interested in market microstructure, derivatives, and trading systems. Outside of work, I’m passionate about chess, running, and managing my own investment portfolio.
Luke Asuming
In Year 13, I was awarded a Gold certificate in the UK Mathematics Trust Senior Challenge. My interest in financial markets has grown through exposure to industry settings and competitions. At a Citadel Insight Day, I participated in a mathematics and estimation trading game where my team placed first. I was also part of the winning team in the Oxford Alpha Fund stock pitch competition, where we presented a detailed investment thesis. During HSBC’s early careers programme, I won a presentation competition that focused on the role of ESG in finance. At university, I play football for the Merton and Mansfield College team and I am a supporter of Chelsea FC. I enjoy producing music and have performed live in front of over 400 people at my church. I also spend my free time watching anime and playing games like FIFA. I was recently elected Sponsorships Officer for the Oxford African and Caribbean Society, where I will manage relationships with corporate partners. I previously helped raise over £500 for a youth event at my church, supporting in both the planning and fundraising efforts.
Reuben Mahil
I’m a second year Natural Sciences student at the University of Bath, where I have currently achieved a first class, I have a strong interest in technology, specifically in data analysis, quantitative analysis, and machine learning. My academic background combines Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics, where I have developed core technical skills in Python, R, and Excel through both academic work and personal projects. Professionally, I have completed spring weeks at RBC Capital Markets and Standard Chartered, and also recently worked as an ESG Equities Analyst for SOBIC (an exclusive student-run investment club), I have also spent a year working as a lettings and finance administrator at Belvoir, where I worked to led the implementation of a new property management system. Outside of this, I am actively involved in a variety of societies, including SOBIC, the Mountaineering Club, and Bath Computer Science Society, where I recently began exploring quantitative trading. I’m currently learning about Bayesian reasoning, Brownian motion, and am enjoying the mechanics of building and backtesting trading models. Additionally, I am currently attempting to build a machine learning model that would predict the winner of the 25/26 Premier League, particularly as I am a Liverpool fan, I am currently implementing a range of performance and transfer-related metrics, hoping to pool live feed data. Outside of the academic environment, I actively seek and enjoy challenges that allow me to apply technical skill in a physical manner, such as completing the three peaks challenge, participating in Jiu-Jitsu or Muay Thai.
Yameen Munir
I am Yameen Munir, a second-year BSc (Hons) Computer Science student (going into my final year) at London South Bank University with a passion for Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and data analysis. I specialize in using Python for predictive modeling and data visualization, particularly in financial markets like stocks and crypto. My academic projects include building e-commerce prediction models and designing user-friendly systems, blending technical skills with real-world problem-solving. As a CSI Ambassador, I’ve taught coding workshops to over 100 students, boosting CS enrollment by 20%. At Youshiko LTD, I developed data-driven models to analyze e-commerce trends, turning insights into actionable strategies. My mentorship in the Microsoft Embrace Program deepened my knowledge of AI and cybersecurity, aligning with my goal to innovate in tech. I’ve completed an AI/ML Bootcamp, the British Airways Data Science Simulation, and Quantum Summer School, reflecting my dedication to learning. Beyond academics, I enjoy mentoring, having led career fairs for 500+ attendees, and thrive in collaborative environments like the Simventure Competition 2024. In my free time, I love coding challenges, cooking (where precision matters!), and traveling to explore new cultures. Gaming keeps my decision-making sharp under pressure. I’m eager to contribute to AI research and pursue a master’s degree to further my impact in the field. Driven by curiosity and a problem-solving mindset, I aim to bridge technology and real-world solutions.
Chioma Irene Ubah
I have a strong interest in finance, technology, and how both shape the global economy. My academic journey is driven by curiosity and a desire to build solutions that are impactful. I also work at Bank of America as a Software Engineer within the Global Markets division, where I support systems that underpin complex trading activities. This hands-on exposure has deepened my appreciation for the speed, accuracy, and intelligence required to succeed in financial markets. Previously, I worked as a Product Analyst at a fintech firm, where I helped improve financial products through user insights and data analysis. That experience sparked my long-term interest in trading and the intersection of finance and software. Outside of work, I enjoy reading about financial systems, and participating in hackathons and tech meetups. I also volunteer with a social housing company that is focused on improving the lives and living situations of families from a low socio-economic background.
Joseph Sam
I’m a BSc Economics, Finance and Data Science student at Imperial College London, deeply interested in trading, macroeconomics, and data-driven decision making. My academic focus lies in a rigorous study of economics and finance, combined with the learning of data science and its applications This passion has been sharpened through several recent experiences. At Fidelity’s Spring Week, I explored their multi-asset and fixed income desks, learning how trading innovation thrives even within long-only frameworks. I also took part in the Goldman Sachs AmplifyMe simulation, placing 4th on the hedge fund side, which refined my trading reflexes, adaptability, and risk management instincts. I also partook in the Optiver x Imperial Trading Academy, where I built and tested a Python-based market-making algorithm. I’m also competing in the DRW Trading Challenge and serve as incoming President of Imperial’s Go Society—a game that applies probabilistic thinking and strategy under uncertainty, much like within trading. This summer, I’ll join Nationwide as a Model Risk Intern, working on credit, FX, and AI risk models across the three lines of defence. Outside academics, I bring a competitive mindset as a former Junior Premier League footballer and player for Imperial’s unbeaten second team. As a Black British student from a low socioeconomic background, I’m passionate about increasing our representation in hign performance trading. I see this Insight Day as a launchpad to learn, grow, and connect with industry leaders.