One day when I was very young, my older sister came home from high school carrying a scientific calculator I couldn’t use. I thought it was cool and wondered if maybe one day I could become expert in using it. It helped inspire my career choice, as did Reginald Mengi, a very successful businessman and philanthropist whom I watched on Tanzanian TV. A former Big Four partner, he handled himself so professionally that he became my role model.
I started my career in 2014 with PwC Tanzania, beginning in assurance. During my time there, I gained my ACCA qualification along with experience in various industries, including banking, manufacturing and government projects. It was great preparation for my move in 2021 to Selcom Microfinance Bank as head of internal audit.
I see my future in finance filled with opportunities just waiting to be explored
Making the move from external to internal audit was a step out of my comfort zone. It came at a period in my life when I was very comfortable with my work, colleagues and lifestyle. Then, in April 2024, I was given the opportunity to set up an internal audit department for Tigo Tanzania, one of the most prominent telecoms businesses in the country, and grasped it with both hands.
What I enjoy most about my work is using my ability to bring positive change through value-adding recommendations. I also like the many chances I have to travel, as I frequently get to meet many new and interesting people. I see my future in finance filled with exciting opportunities just waiting to be explored. I’m ready for whatever comes next.
As a developing country, Tanzania faces various challenges, especially unemployment and, as a result of climate change and diseases, food security. Offsetting these challenges is a wealth of opportunities arising from an abundance of natural resources in land, minerals and tourist attractions, and diverse manpower resources.
Motivating teams has made my working life easier and my career more interesting
The biggest achievement in my career has always been my ability to motivate and grow teams to reach their potential. Being able to do this has made my working life easier and my career more interesting.
My favourite saying is: money is a good slave but a terrible slave master. Money certainly has great value, but there are far more important things in life than money.
If I had law-making powers, I would change Tanzania’s pension scheme regulations. These schemes need to be made much more flexible, allowing easier access to the funds for the beneficiaries.
When I can get away, I love to travel. I also greatly enjoy creating flower arrangements and organising beautiful floral set-ups for events – if I hadn’t had a career in finance, I think I would have become a full-time florist – and I love the creative arts.
