Working in the telecoms sector has its challenges. It is a capital-intensive business with returns on investment taking years to realise, and with customers looking for affordable internet services. The evolving changes in global communications mean there is increased pressure to innovate and develop new products, which represent opportunities to meet customer expectations, and to repurpose traditional telco infrastructure.
My mother inspired me to become an accountant, as she’d studied finance at university. I realised I also liked it and took a degree in finance while simultaneously studying ACCA at evening classes. After graduation I got a job at Deloitte where I finished my ACCA studies, which was a labour of love and wasn’t all plain sailing as I faced some failures along the way. I then joined telecoms giant Safaricom in 2016 as a principal internal auditor, working to ensure that governance and controls were in place through delivering audits. My scope of delivery is much wider in my current role as I support commercial-related internal audit activities across the company.
Leadership courses and forums enable women to navigate workplace dynamics
I recently attended a Women in Leadership course. It was really enlightening. I learnt about the parallels between women’s traditional roles in the modern workplace, how they impact perceptions, collaboration and work delivery, and how subtle behaviour traits can either enable or destroy one’s work experience. Leadership courses and forums provide the tools to help women navigate workplace dynamics. I think men should also have a similar option to the Women in Leadership course, as business is constantly changing.
It was an achievement for me to be voted as internal audit team employee of the year in 2023, which was a real surprise and a humbling event. As a leader, I strive to be self-aware and create a work environment that builds a thriving team.
I like the following conundrum: ‘Is it fear or courage that compels you?’ It reminds me to be courageous when facing difficult times.
I delight in the simplification of business processes and the realisation of cost savings
If I had law-making powers, I’d create a fund offering food vouchers and shelter to help citizens facing setbacks to get back on their feet. I would also reduce licence fees across industries to offer a competitive market for new entrants combined with a friendly tax policy to provide a conducive environment.
At work I delight in the simplification of business processes and the cost savings realised for the company through internal audit. However, my job also fuels my creative energy. I love developing new areas, learning new products, brainstorming ideas and thinking outside the box. I also like that my employer provides training that enables me to constantly learn.
If I wasn’t in finance I would have been in agri-business. I’ve tried farming, admittedly on a minuscule scale, but my crops grew healthily, so I think I would be good at it. As an accountant, the record keeping wouldn’t be an issue.
I love movies with a passion and they also fuel my creativity. I like to go to zumba dance classes, which are intense and good for learning the latest dance moves, increasing fitness and relieving stress. I’m also trying my hand at playing chess, but frankly the computer’s AI player doesn’t give me much of a chance.
