Gabriela Nagle
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background
Hi, my name is Gabi and I’m from the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands and went to Kingussie High School. I’ve just finished my first year at the University of Edinburgh, where I’m studying Sustainable Development. I’m passionate about understanding the challenges involved in reducing global inequalities while also protecting the planet’s systems from industrialised production and consumption.
What was your experience like with Future Asset?
Future Asset was introduced to me by my Maths department as a great opportunity to explore a sector I’d never really considered before. Initially, I thought it would simply be good experience for my future career. However, after winning in 2022 and staying involved as an alumna for two years, I’ve realised it’s about so much more than just exposure. Being part of FA has connected me to a community of like-minded, driven young women who constantly inspire and motivate me. It’s opened doors to new career paths and created so many opportunities—like invitations to career insight days, networking events, and mentoring through FA.
Personally, my experience with FA post competition has actually been the most influential part, having received huge amounts of support with my endeavours and been fortunate enough to attend various FA events.
The competition itself provides the starting blocks for market analysis and investing and is a great opportunity to connect with industry professionals who lead you through the process.
What are your current career goals or aspirations?
Right now, I’m focused on being part of the solution to climate change. My degree and networking experiences have shown me that there’s no limit to what a career in sustainability can look like. My current job as a research assistant for a project, which explores the foundations of sustainability and care, has made me even more passionate about finding ways to bring social and environmental care into business practices. Meeting with my FA mentor, who works in sustainable investment, really opened my eyes to the potential of finance as a positive force for change. Experiences such as attending the workshop ‘Pathways to our Future Selves’ facilitated by Emily Shipp and hosted at the Library of Mistakes have shown me the value of staying open-minded and curious. Instead of having a fixed idea of what my future career looks like, I’m focusing on saying yes to opportunities now, figuring out what I enjoy and where I can make a difference.
What advice would you give to students thinking about getting involved with Future Asset or considering a career in finance?
When I first heard about FA during S5, I was caught up in the stress of my higher exams and saw it more as an extra chore than anything else. But I’m so grateful my team and I stuck with it. Future Asset is such a valuable and eye-opening experience—it’s worth every bit of effort. Early exposure to any career sector is invaluable when you’re trying to figure out what you want to do. Finance might seem niche or intimidating, but it’s actually inclusive and connects to so many areas you might be passionate about.
What advice would you give to students thinking about considering a career in finance?
I’d love to see firms and employers continue to champion inclusivity and accessibility for young talent. Providing opportunities like insight days, mentorship, and internships really does make a difference—especially when those opportunities are shared widely and reach students who might not traditionally consider a career in finance. Helping young people see how their interests can align with the finance sector can bring new ideas and fresh perspectives into the industry.
Would you like to share your story? Contact jemma@futureasset.org.uk
If you would like to learn more about our Alumnae Network, please visit our Alumnae PageÂ