My career began in my home country of Jamaica. I had a talent for accounting, was interested in becoming a chartered accountant and had a desire to join the corporate arena.
I originally joined a local accounting firm as an audit junior. It provided me with the experience of different industries and developed my accounting knowledge and problem-solving skills. I later switched to a corporate financial role and, in 2011, I moved to Toronto, Canada, where I pursued a mix of opportunities.
I moved into the public sector in 2016 as a financial analyst at the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO), a Crown Corporation. I was subsequently promoted to manager of financial reporting and accounting policy.
My career progress has been fuelled by embracing change, staying positive and maintaining a growth mindset
As an immigrant to any country and a person of colour, one must work twice as hard to achieve personal goals. My career progress has been fuelled by embracing change, staying positive and maintaining a growth mindset. I am also fortunate to have received positive support from the LCBO leadership, where my mentors have always been willing to foster my growth.
The LCBO is a proud contributor to the government of Ontario. The revenues it generates support key public services for Ontarians, including healthcare, education and infrastructure. A career in the public sector means I can make a difference to local communities, while continuously learning and developing new skills. This has led to a more fulfilling professional journey.
My favourite quote comes from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: ‘The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.’ This is a profound truth about the nature of success and achievement. It encourages me to embrace personal and professional growth, and recognises that true greatness is achieved through commitment, fortitude and unwavering dedication.
If I had law-making powers, I would give equal opportunities to access education for all, free of cost. I would also establish laws to dismantle inequality, promote diversity, combat discrimination and expand economic opportunities for everyone.
Achievements are building blocks that make us feel successful and I have a lot for which to be grateful.
What I enjoy most about my current job is that I am always challenged by new accounting standards that will potentially impact the business. I also enjoy being able to bring a combination of deep technical knowledge, and wide accounting and reporting experience to the table.
The biggest achievement in my life is my family and becoming an ACCA member. I also moved to Canada where I have successfully balanced my professional career and personal life. I feel achievements are building blocks that make us feel successful and I have a lot for which to be grateful.
If I weren’t an accountant, I’d be interested in a career in corporate law. I would like to oversee the mergers and acquisition of companies. I would also enjoy being involved with negotiating the agreements between the different parties.
In my spare time I am a mentor for youth in my church community, where we facilitate a youth mentorship and engagement programme. I also enjoy spending time with my family, close friends and my pet puppy.
