I realised I loved accounts when it was introduced as a subject at my school. Ultimately, that’s probably what led me to become a chartered accountant. I went on to study a degree in accounting at the National University of Lesotho, after my family moved there from Zimbabwe. Qualifying was very challenging due to financial constraints, so I had to self-study throughout my entire ACCA journey. However, I had the desire to achieve my dreams and with persistence I was able to reach my destination.
It was my desire to learn and continue advancing my education that landed me in the auditing sector. I grew up in a small town called Wedza in Zimbabwe, where my father worked at the district council. I remember him taking me to his work one day and I think that channelled my dreams to one day work in an office environment like his.
Moving to the UK is a big change but I am excited to start this new chapter outside Africa
I’m thrilled to have joined the UK audit and assurance sector as an audit senior with Azets UK, based in Hertford. Azets’ core values align with mine and I hope to climb the career ladder in due time, once I have familiarised myself with UK GAAP and UK systems. It’s a big change but I am excited to start this new chapter and gain experience outside Africa.
In my previous role at PKF Lesotho, I had a great opportunity to develop professionally over seven years. I embraced the environment, which offered me practical experience and exposure to various sectors. My business acumen grew and my leadership skills were polished to the point where I was able to step into the role of audit manager, responsible for a team of 50 people. I have a passion for the profession and a need to excel, providing value to businesses through the work that I do. Furthermore, I’ve always enjoyed mentoring people who are on a similar path to me.
Being an audit manager goes beyond leading a team in their duties and responsibilities. The profession is dynamic and new challenges come both internally and externally. I believe one needs to foster a solutions- and growth-driven mindset. An audit manager also needs to be approachable to both their team and the client. This helps create an environment where trust is nurtured.
Most clients in Lesotho faced challenges in finding capital for their business growth, as the nation’s stock exchange is not fully established. As of 2022, the Maseru Securities Market, as it’s known, only had one company listed. The country is also landlocked. However, it is aiming to be a self-sufficient economy in the coming years and this goal promises to present growth opportunities for various industries.
My biggest achievement so far has been becoming an ACCA member in 2022, as I had worked towards this for a long time. My move to Azets in the UK was made possible by my globally recognised qualification.
Free movement would promote unity within Africa, as well as boost trade and tourism between countries
What I enjoy most about my career are the opportunities for growth that it presents. I aspire to move up through the ranks, all the way to becoming a partner. But if I were not in this sector, I would probably be a corporate attorney, as I am always eager to learn and enjoy a good challenge.
If I had law-making powers, I would abolish the need for a visa to travel to other African countries and allow free movement. I believe this would promote unity within Africa, as well as boost trade and tourism between countries.
In my spare time I enjoy listening to and discovering new podcasts. I also love going on nature walks and look forward to exploring a new country.
