Join the Brighton Finance Society
Are you looking to build a career in finance, investment, or banking — or simply gain the financial literacy to manage your money and create a secure future?
The Brighton Finance Society is a student-led community open to all. We connect students with professionals, alumni, and real-world experiences to support career development, while also making financial literacy accessible to everyone. Whether you’re aiming for a role in investment banking or just want to feel more confident managing your money, the society offers a place to learn, grow, and connect.
What We Do
The Brighton Finance Society bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, with a dual focus on career development in finance and personal financial literacy for life. Our aim is to empower students to both stand out professionally and feel confident managing their own money.
We host:
- Workshops & Simulations – hands-on sessions covering trading, portfolio management, financial modelling, financial literacy, and practical money skills.
- Guest Speakers – from hedge fund managers to fintech founders, sharing market insights, career advice, and personal finance strategies.
- Networking Events – connecting students with alumni and professionals in investment banking, private equity, and beyond.
- Competitions – including live trading challenges with exciting prizes such as sponsored funded accounts.
- Social Events – fun and welcoming socials, from themed nights and trips to casual meetups, giving members the chance to make friends and build community beyond finance.”
Why Join?
The Brighton Finance Society is designed for everyone — whether you simply want to improve your personal money management or you’re aiming for a career in finance. We focus equally on building financial literacy for life and providing career opportunities for the future.
As a member, you’ll:
- Learn essential financial literacy skills — from saving and investing to making your money work for you.
- Take part in workshops, simulations, and competitions that bring financial concepts to life.
- Strengthen your CV and professional profile through career-focused events and leadership opportunities.
- Build valuable networks with alumni and professionals in investment, banking, private equity, and more.
- Join a welcoming community with socials and trips, meeting students from across the university.
President Lily Bowers explains:
“I believe everyone should develop some financial knowledge to understand how to make their money work for them and build a secure future, whether or not they choose a career in finance. I wanted to create a space where students can connect, share ideas, and learn together in a supportive and collaborative environment.”
Highlights So Far
One of the biggest advantages of joining the Brighton Finance Society is the access to valuable networks.
Yavnev said: “We regularly host sessions with professionals from hedge funds, private equity firms, and investment banks. Organizing events and collaborating with industry professionals has improved my networking and leadership abilities. Additionally, working with a team to run workshops and now a trading simulation (competition) has deepened my understanding of market trends and risk management.”
Some of our recent events and speakers include:
- Trading Competition with $10k audition prop account for 1stplace winner
- The Power of Compounding – How to Create Long-Term Wealth
- Romain Diaz (CEO, Satgana) – Investing in Climate Solutions in Europe & Africa
- Adrian Slack & Wolfgang (CEOs, Trade Uni)– Chart decoding, strategy, and psychology
- Market Concepts and Intro to Bloomberg Terminal workshops
Lily explains: “Students gain hands-on experience with trading simulations, investment analysis, and financial modelling. We also provide networking opportunities with professionals in finance, investment banking, and private equity.”
Socialising and having fun
Being part of a society is a great way to make new friends and connect with students from different courses and backgrounds, providing a welcoming community to meet people with shared interests.
From casual hangouts to themed socials and trips, being part of a society offers countless fun experiences.
Socials have included:
• A Business & Investment night at Enigma Stock Trading Bar
• A festive Christmas Trivia Night
These moments create not only professional value but also some of the most memorable experiences of university life.
Meet the Team
Lily Bowers and Yavor Yanvev are responsible for organising regular events, engaging with industry professionals, supporting members’ learning, and ensuring the society’s growth and compliance.
Lily Bowers, President
“My aim is to give students an edge in their careers by providing real-world experience, industry insights, and networking opportunities. At the same time, I believe financial literacy is essential for everyone, so we also focus on helping students gain the money skills to build a secure future, whether or not they work in finance.”
Sarp Safran, Vice President
“I stepped into the VP role to help grow the society and deliver impactful events for our members. My aim is to support students in developing valuable skills, building connections and making the most out of our community”
How to Get Involved
Become a member through the Brighton Student Union website to access exclusive events and resources.
📱 Follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube for the latest news and updates.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or already have some knowledge, the Brighton Finance Society is the perfect place to take your interest in finance to the next level.
Neysan Jones • September 1, 2025