What I liked about studying accounting at school was that it gave me a taste of the real world. It was the subject I enjoyed the most and inspired me to pursue a career in the profession, so soon after I finished school I embarked with full gusto on the journey to gain my ACCA Qualification.
After completing a few papers, I was eager to gain practical experience and was fortunate to land my first job as a trainee accountant in one of the Big Four firms. I worked in various capacities with clients from different industries and believe that starting at KPMG was one of the best decisions I have made for my career as I gained invaluable experience in auditing, budgeting, projections, business valuation, financial analysis and much more.
Moving to corporate has opened doors and opportunities for me
After seven years at KPMG, I wanted to take on a new challenge. Moving to the corporate world seemed the right way to develop my career. I started my corporate experience with a healthcare business and then went on to join Banglalink, one of the top telecommunication companies in Bangladesh, based in the capital Dhaka. It has been a satisfying journey, and moving to corporate has opened doors and opportunities for me.
As a professional accountant, I believe there is no end to learning. It is a continuous process to keep up to date with current events, changes in policies, and the world economy. I recently took the MSc in professional accountancy from the University of London and would recommend it to others. The financial industry is changing rapidly, and I believe this degree provides the right combination of skills and knowledge to meet changing needs. One of its best aspects is that it creates a gateway to network with peers from a variety of industries from across the world, which I found to be an invaluable experience.
The worst of the global crisis may still be looming
Covid and the current global crisis have had an adverse impact on the global economy and at the country level. Disruption in trade and supply chains has pushed up prices of consumer products and fuel, which has created inflation. The unprecedented crisis that we are experiencing has critical implications, constraining finances, affordability and productivity. It is crucial that inflation is kept under control and appropriate measures are undertaken to combat the crisis. It is of vital importance to focus on the economy’s strength and make reforms and policies aimed at supporting it in both the short and long run, as the worst of the global crisis may still be looming.
What I like most about my job is that it allows me to be forward-looking rather than historical. I enjoy developing insights, reports and forecasts which support the decision-making process. The fact that my job does not stick to a routine role makes it all the more interesting.
Rather than one achievement, it seems that every progression on my career ladder is a step towards the future. Each seems like a small milestone for me. The triumphs and struggles at different stages in my life have led me to where I am today.
Education is one of the most critical investments we can make for an economy
If I had law-making powers, I would ensure the right to free education for everyone – at primary, secondary and higher levels. Education is one of the most critical investments we can make for an economy.
If I weren’t a qualified accountant, I would have chosen a profession that allowed me to travel. I like to experience different cultures, so would have loved to be a travel vlogger.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I like playing video games, mostly Fifa, and I follow football. I also love going on trips and making memories that last a lifetime.
