Ian Bessarabia leads the Financial Markets Academy at Maharishi Invincibility Institute, where he brings over 25 years of distinguished experience in global capital markets to transform South African financial education. His extensive expertise spans the intricate workings of global capital markets, along with specialised knowledge of various financial instruments developed through significant roles in middle- and back-office operations.

Professional Excellence

Ian’s career reflects a unique combination of hands-on industry practice, expert consultancy, solution development, and strategic analysis. He has focused on automating and standardising trade lifecycles to enhance business processes and improve operational resilience, bringing real-world expertise directly into the classroom.

Educational Leadership

At MI, Ian manages and grows the Financial Markets Academy, overseeing all academic curriculum and processes while supporting staff development and achieving strategic performance metrics. His leadership extends to identifying new partnership opportunities and revenue streams that strengthen both the Academy and the broader Institute.

Innovation & Insight

Ian leverages both artificial intelligence and emotional intelligence, combining data-driven analysis with human insight to proactively respond to market shifts and enhance educational proficiency. His comprehensive understanding of business workflows, regulatory frameworks, and compliance mandates enable him to foster innovation while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance and ethical practices.

Consciousness-Based Education

As a dedicated practitioner of Transcendental Meditation, Ian actively champions MI’s Consciousness-Based Education approach, supporting the Institute’s mission to develop the full potential of every student while maximising the quality of educational offerings. His commitment to this holistic approach creates an optimal learning environment that combines professional excellence with personal development.

“Being curious and inquisitive overcomes complacency and stagnation and develops an enquiring mind.” – Ian Bessarabia