When I left school, I wasn’t entirely sure where my career path would lead, but I knew one thing for certain – I wanted to achieve success and financial stability, drawing inspiration from my upbringing and my deep involvement in sports. My journey began at a tender age; fresh out of school, I took a leap of faith into the world of Chartered Accountancy (CA), with a glimmer of understanding but mostly a heart full of enthusiasm. I dove into my career at Moore Johannesburg, ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead.
Looking back, I realise how fortunate I was to encounter remarkable mentors who guided me throughout my journey. Moreover, allowing me to become part of a family-like culture. This was not just an environment that demanded excellence; it was a place that genuinely cared about me, my growth as a CA, and my overall professional development. But make no mistake; the road has been far from easy. I’ve faced my share of bumps along the way, and they have tested my resolve and determination.
What’s kept me going and led me to achieve incredible milestones over the past two decades are some essential principles that I want to share with all young women seeking their own paths to greatness:
- Fearlessly Embrace the Unknown: Life is a world of possibilities, and it’s okay not to have all the answers at the start. I dove headfirst into the CA world without full knowledge of where it would take me, and that’s okay! Embrace uncertainty with courage, and you’ll discover a world of opportunities.
- Set Clear Objectives: Success is often the result of focused efforts. Each year, set clear objectives for yourself, both personally and professionally. Having a vision gives you direction and motivates you to work diligently towards your goals.
- Seek Support and Learn from Others: Surround yourself with a supportive team and seek guidance from mentors. Learn from their experiences and wisdom, for their insights will enrich your own journey.
- Embrace Resilience: Bumps along the way are inevitable, but don’t let them deter you. Embrace resilience, bounce back from setbacks, and view them as stepping stones to growth.
- Be Your Own Advocate: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Advocate for your dreams and ambitions, and don’t shy away from showcasing your talents.
Some advice
As you embark on your journey towards a career, I want to share some valuable advice, some similar to what I had noted above, that I hope will empower and guide you through the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.