Early in my career, I joined the audit team at Deloitte in Bengaluru. Auditing was something that came naturally to me and I considered myself an auditor. Then in 2020, after I qualified, I took a gamble and pivoted to join the firm's consulting practice.
Initially I had concerns, as the move would mean moving into new territory, away from the familiar regulatory environment of audit and accounting. But my stint in audit helped me realise I enjoyed problem-solving more than mere problem identification. I stepped out of my comfort zone and it has certainly paid off.
I think teaching financial literacy in school would benefit children across the world
The best part of working in practice is the variety of work that you get to experience. You are constantly challenged, and it is something that helps you grow and attain expertise at an unmatched rate.
I started studying accounting, taxes and finance after high school. I wondered then why we had not been taught this at school, as finance seemed like a life skill that we all should know. I started explaining the basic finance concepts to my family and friends. When we simplify and explain these, it’s easy for anyone to understand. And if done at a young age, it becomes part of people’s daily lives. If you are forced to sort it out on your own when you start earning it can be overwhelming.
In India money is usually managed by the patriarch of the family. In most households, it is considered a taboo to discuss money. This increases the dependence of other members of the household, especially women, on those who manage the finances. There is a lack of transparency within families, mainly due to ignorance. I strongly believe if schools start teaching finance to kids, it can change this, as it would create more awareness among a whole new generation. I think teaching financial literacy in school would benefit children across the world.
India has a lot to offer. It is the second most populated country in the world, which is often viewed as a disadvantage, however I believe this is possibly our greatest strength. We have one of the youngest populations globally, which can contribute so much to the development of the economy. With the entrepreneurship wave taking over India these days, I am proud to see that Indians are not waiting for opportunities to be handed to them, but are creating their own.
If I had law-making powers, I would want everyone in the world to have free access to good-quality education
Our primary challenge is to allow access to good education and financial resources for everyone regardless of background. This problem is fixable but, given the scale, it will take time.
If I had law-making powers, I would want everyone in the world to have free access to high-quality school and university education. As Nelson Mandela said: ‘Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.’
Achieving my ACCA membership has been my biggest accomplishment to date. The day I passed my qualification will always be a fond memory for me. Finding my calling in consulting comes a close second, as I never imagined I would enjoy consulting as much as I do.
If I weren’t an accountant I probably would have become an anthropologist. Anthropology and history have always interested me.
Outside of work, I enjoy painting. I draw inspiration from my mother, who is a professional artist herself. Recently, I have taken up oil painting and I absolutely love it.
