Michelle Haantjes

michelle.haantjes@blackswancapital.eu

Get In Touch

Professionally

I studied Investment Management at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. After graduating, I began my career at a listed financial services company, gaining broad exposure across the industry.

I then moved into a wealth management and advisory role in Johannesburg, where I discovered how much I enjoy working closely with people, helping them create financial plans to meet their unique goals, and building long-term relationships that make a real difference. During this time, I obtained the globally recognised Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, a rewarding journey that allowed me to deepen my knowledge of the investment management industry.

After moving to the Netherlands, I was excited to join Black Swan Capital and continue developing my skills. I am passionate about helping individuals and families navigate their financial futures, whether planning for a major milestone or managing everyday finances.

Personally

I’m originally from South Africa, and there’s nothing quite like a trip to the bushveld. Family and faith have always been central in my life, and I’m very family oriented.

My husband and I have always loved to travel, and after several visits to the Netherlands to see family, we were drawn to the culture and unique charm of the country. Since moving here, we’ve enjoyed exploring, learning the language (slowly but surely), and settling into a new way of life.

A lifelong passion of mine is horse riding, and I still get excited whenever horses come up in conversation. I also enjoy photography as a creative outlet, as well as good food and wine with friends and family, spending time outdoors, and curling up with a good book.

Likes

  • Anything involving a horse

  • Travelling

  • A good South African braai (barbeque)

  • A book with a good plot twist

Dislikes

  • When the weather app lies

  • Queues

  • When the GPS says “You have arrived” but you definitely haven’t

  • The feeling of being busy but not productive

Spotlight

Perfect weekend: Being in the South African bush, surrounded by the big five and my family.

Favourite Holiday Destination: The Cape Winelands, although I have many European cities on my list!

Favourite song to play in the car: Dreams by Fleetwood Mac

If I could be a fictional character I would be: Hermoine Granger

If I could turn an activity into an Olympic sport it would be: Untangling a bird’s nest of cords

When the dessert menu arrives, I’m looking for: Anything with vanilla

Three qualities that draw me to new people: Authenticity, kindness and curiosity about the world

My biggest pet peeve is: Sticky labels that won’t peel off completely

The best gift I received was: Anything that a loved one has put thought into

Three people at my dream dinner party: Warren Buffet, Joe Rogan and Isabell Werth

Three small things that make my day better: A morning coffee with my husband, a good podcast and fresh flowers