The art of storytelling through numbers is what first inspired me to pursue accounting. Accounting and auditing tools allow us to translate business performance into a universal language. Without proper accounting, finance and reporting, even the most successful businesses cannot effectively present their achievements to stakeholders.
Throughout my career, I have worked with many clients with creative and successful business models. Yet, where accounting teams lacked either technical expertise or recognition of their role, businesses often failed to communicate their true performance and, as a result, lost value.
Over the past 15 years, Egypt has faced significant economic challenges. Political instability between 2010 and 2015 drove inflation higher, widened the fiscal deficit and created pressure on the local currency – resulting in a tenfold devaluation. But Egypt’s lower currency, together with its relative stability and accessibility, now acts as an incentive for investors looking for cost-effective opportunities.
Despite having only one week of study leave, I achieved the highest score in Egypt
Taxation and governmental services also present both challenges and opportunities. While Egypt has made major progress in recent years, further reforms and greater awareness among taxpayers are needed to enhance their impact and build a more attractive environment for investment.
Starting the ACCA qualification after 15 years of professional experience, with family and career pressures, was not easy. I sat my first exam while working as a director at Grant Thornton Egypt with demanding responsibilities and deadlines. Despite having only one week of study leave, I achieved the highest score in Egypt and became a national prizewinner. That reaffirmed my decision to embrace new challenges.
ACCA has enriched both my technical and personal skills. The syllabus enhanced my knowledge across accounting, tax, finance and audit, giving me the ability to lead technical discussions on valuations, investment decisions, budgeting and cost modelling. It has also enabled me to engage with boards and committees on a wide range of strategic issues, adding real value to clients. On a personal level, ACCA has strengthened skills such as decision-making, managing priorities, adapting to change and continuous learning.
No two days are ever the same; each brings new projects, industries and people
In my job, no two days are ever the same; each brings new projects, industries and people to learn from. I enjoy understanding new business models, solving complex problems, and exchanging experiences with colleagues and clients. I always tell my colleagues: ‘Work every day with the same inspiration and motivation you felt on your very first working day.’
In Egypt, universities provide strong theoretical grounding, but graduates often leave unprepared for the realities of the profession. If I could, I would introduce mandatory modules, delivered by qualified practitioners across accounting, auditing, tax, finance and banking, to expose students to the skills and expectations of professional practice. Encouragingly, ACCA has already partnered with several Egyptian universities to support this transition, and I believe this will significantly improve graduate quality and employability in Egypt and beyond.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would have liked to become a police detective. The role requires attention to detail, critical thinking and problem-solving – skills that I already use daily in my work. It would have allowed me to contribute to society in a meaningful way.
I am passionate about sports, particularly football and handball. Both were a big part of my childhood, and I still enjoy watching and playing them in my free time.
