Inspired by my father’s work ethic and my own passion for numbers, I pursued an accounting career and have now worked in finance for 25 years. I gained experience across both the private and public sectors, working in banking, agriculture, water management and local government. I currently work at the district council of Moka, where I am head of finance.
I have stepped out of my comfort zone throughout my career, particularly when accepting challenges across different sectors and taking on leadership responsibilities. A particular challenge came when I moved from the private sector into public utilities and took on senior responsibilities at the Central Water Authority. I was responsible for leading a division of around 300 employees working across many units, including billing, debt recovery, anti-fraud and customer services. Managing such a large and diverse team, while providing efficient management and service delivery, meant I had to develop new strategic and leadership skills.
I believe that taking a proactive approach to success is better than waiting for luck
I believe AI will move public sector audit from a sample-based process to 100% data analysis. It will enhance audits by automating repetitive tasks, reducing the risk of human error and providing better fraud detection and risk assessment. Public sector accountants will increasingly move from tedious manual tasks to more strategic roles in interpreting data, ensuring compliance and advising decision-makers. This should lead to greater accountability, transparency and the proper management of public resources.
My favourite mantra comes from entrepreneur and speaker Chris Grosser: ‘Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.’ I believe that taking a proactive approach to achieve success is better than waiting for luck, such as when I chose accountancy as my profession. That decision was pivotal for my career, and my ACCA qualification has been the passport to my success. As chairperson of the ACCA Mauritius Network Panel I am able to give back to the profession and inspire younger members.
If I had law-making powers, I would legislate to have greater financial transparency, accountability and performance-based budgeting in the public sector. I have seen how stronger legal frameworks around financial reporting greatly improve governance and public trust. I would also have laws to make public sector organisations autonomous in raising public finances.
What I enjoy most about my job is contributing to the sound management of public finances
What I enjoy most about my job is contributing directly to the sound management of public finances and to community development. My role is both strategic and operational, involving the financial administration of the council and advising on policies and decisions. I also like managing and motivating a team of finance professionals, while working alongside different departments and stakeholders to improve collaboration and financial processes.
My biggest achievement has been my family of a husband and two children. Career-wise, my role in strengthening financial management and governance within the public sector and implementing performance-based budgeting and change processes, has been particularly rewarding.
If I were not an accountant I would have pursued a career in education. It would be satisfying to know that you were shaping future generations and contributing to society in a meaningful way. Through my leadership roles, especially with the ACCA Members Network Panel, I enjoy mentoring aspiring professionals.
When I am not at work, I enjoy going to the cinema, which is a good way to unwind and spend quality time with family and friends. I also like travel and visiting places, as I find it fascinating to learn about different countries and cultures. These activities help me recharge and bring a sense of balance to my demanding professional life.
