Accounting has always held a special place for me. Working on various projects confirmed my love for finance, while strategic resources management helped mould my thinking.
I embarked on my career early, interning at a couple of firms and teaching ACCA students before landing a role in a UN Peacekeeping mission. I then found my way to UNHCR, where I am today. Currently, my responsibilities include strategic resources allocations, leading the second line of defence and managing the enterprise resource planning rollout across the region.
Working for an organisation like UNHCR constantly challenges my skills and expertise, pushing me to grow and adapt. What truly makes it my dream job is the noble cause at its core. It’s the icing on the cake, knowing I’m part of something much bigger than myself, striving to make the world a better place for those who need us the most.
Our commitment and the impact of our humanitarian work greatly motivates us
The limited resources and increasing competition in the humanitarian sector, especially in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with growing political polarisation, makes our work more challenging. Dag Hammarskjöld, the second secretary-general of the United Nations, said: ‘The United Nations was not created in order to bring us to heaven, but in order to save us from hell,’ which resonates deeply with me. Despite the difficulties, my team and I remain dedicated to our mission, and we persevere by setting attainable short-term goals. We celebrate even the smallest victories and learn valuable lessons from our setbacks.
Our commitment to the cause and the impact of our humanitarian work greatly motivates us to alleviate suffering and bring about positive change.
Focusing on what I can control has been instrumental in navigating through difficult times, as I have realised that the only aspect I can truly control is my reaction to a given situation. By directing my energy towards managing my responses, I have been able to approach circumstances with a more composed and constructive mindset, enabling me to make more informed and rational decisions.
I would like to see immigration practices prioritise safety and wellbeing for those seeking protection
I find it disheartening how immigration laws and international boundaries often restrict the movement of humans, particularly those fleeing from persecution. It’s intriguing to observe how birds and wild animals freely cross borders, giving us the beauty of global animal migration. This stark contrast between the mobility of animals and the constraints imposed on humans seeking safety raises important questions about the limitations we place on human movement.
If I had law-making powers, I would seek more humane immigration practices that prioritise the safety and wellbeing of individuals seeking asylum and protection from harm. By acknowledging the fundamental right of all individuals to seek a secure and dignified life, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable world where boundaries and bureaucratic hurdles do not hinder human movement.
During my career there have been many moments that I will never forget. One recent experience was when I successfully facilitated the voluntary repatriation of more than 100 individuals to their home country. It demonstrates vividly how every challenge we face in our work is worth it, as witnessing the improved lives of those we serve is very rewarding.
My ACCA qualification was also a big achievement. Opting for ACCA was a pivotal decision that opened so many doors and possibilities.
I cannot think of a better career for myself, but if I was not an accountant I might have tried to be a musician. Outside of work, I enjoy riding motorbikes, which takes me away from work stress. To unwind, I also watch TV and listen to music, and sometimes try to play some cool riffs on my guitar.
