When I started teaching 21 years ago, finance and accounting were considered niche fields. But I have always seen them as areas that truly shape how organisations function and make decisions.
I was inspired to pursue ACCA by my own students. I noticed their growing enthusiasm for ACCA, and their curiosity and ambition to gain global financial expertise motivated me to take up the qualification myself. It has deepened my own understanding of international accounting and finance.
A career in education gives you the ability to shape lives beyond the classroom. A teacher influences what students learn, but also how they think, grow and see themselves. Teaching creates lasting impact; you become a mentor and a source of strength for students who are facing academic and personal challenges. The sense of fulfilment that comes from seeing a struggling student succeed, or a hesitant learner gain confidence, is incomparable. You leave a legacy of minds transformed and futures built, which is teaching’s greatest reward.
Focus on the one reason to keep going, instead of thinking of ten reasons to quit
At Manipal Academy of Higher Education we are continuously striving to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace readiness. One of the main challenges our students face after graduation is balancing academic learning with the development of practical, industry-ready skills. Students’ schedules are extremely demanding, leaving limited time for applied skill-building while at college. We have addressed this over the years by integrating components such as corporate tax and VAT training, but the industry expects graduates to have a broad range of capabilities, from analytical and digital skills to professional communication and adaptability.
This generation can give up quickly if an exam doesn’t go well. I tell my students to focus on the one reason to keep going, instead of thinking of ten reasons to quit. The ‘never-give-up’ mindset is how I approach every challenge in life.
Every child should have equal access to quality education and mentorship. Many talented students don’t get the right guidance or opportunities. If this was required by law it would unlock potential and create a generation that contributes meaningfully to society.
My daughter showed me resilience, discipline and the power of shared motivation
The daily interaction with students gives real meaning to my work. There’s a unique satisfaction in helping a student who is struggling to regain confidence. When former students tell me they’ve achieved something significant, such as gaining their ACCA qualification, I always find it deeply rewarding.
Completing my ACCA qualification is my biggest achievement. At the time, I had a full-time job and had just been promoted, and I am also a wife and a mother. My daughter was my biggest source of support, even accompanying me to evening classes and doing her school work beside me. She showed me resilience, discipline and the power of shared motivation. It’s not just my achievement – it’s ours.
If I weren’t an accountant I would have been a classical dancer or singer. I am a trained classical performer, and the arts have always been a deep passion of mine. But the Almighty had different plans and I’m grateful that my career in finance has allowed me to bring creativity to my work. I’ve always wanted to learn a musical instrument, so after gaining my ACCA qualification I took up the violin. It’s something I really find relaxing after work.
