I was always drawn to subjects at school that required analysis and problem-solving, so it felt natural go on to study accountancy at university. I was also inspired by the fact that many leaders within financial institutions were chartered accountants, which showed that accounting was a strong foundation for leadership and decision-making.
My career began at Deloitte Malawi in 2011, where I later gained my ACCA qualification. Working in external audit exposed me to diverse industries and instilled in me the importance of integrity, professionalism and continuous learning. In 2017, I moved into the banking sector, where I am now in senior management.
Malawian enterprises are able to adapt quickly, even in challenging environments
Working in a developing economy gives me a great perspective of the challenges and opportunities facing African financial institutions. Malawi faces macroeconomic pressures such as inflation and foreign-exchange constraints, which affect planning and the cost of doing business. However, Malawian enterprises have the ability to adapt quickly, even in challenging environments.
There are significant long-term opportunities, too, particularly in agriculture, mining and value-added industries. Agriculture remains key to the economy and, with increased investments in mechanisation, irrigation and technology, the sector is becoming more productive and export oriented. The mining sector has benefited from recent mineral discoveries, which will also help diversify the economy and stimulate industrial development. What is exciting is the multiplier effect that these sectors can create, as they provide opportunities for SMEs and entrepreneurs, and I believe Malawi has strong potential to develop more sustainable growth.
I step out of my comfort zone every time I present technical positions before experienced professionals, particularly where there are differing perspectives. These experiences have taught me to remain analytical under pressure while also being open to alternative views. I’ve realised that, often, professional growth happens in environments that demand both technical competence and the confidence to engage in difficult conversations.
This is my mantra: ‘I will focus my energy on what is within my control, my effort, discipline and character.’ The future will unfold as it is meant to, but how I prepare and respond is up to me.
What I enjoy most about my job is encountering new and challenging situations that require solutions. I must think critically while often need to figure things out on the go. This keeps the work interesting because it involves reasoning, learning and growth.
Growth is about the confidence others place in your judgment and professionalism
One of my biggest achievements has been building trust throughout my professional journey. I am now relied upon to contribute to important discussions, analyses and processes, which I value deeply. Growth is about the confidence that others place in your judgment and professionalism.
If I had law-making powers, I would strengthen financial inclusion, particularly for marginalised groups and small-scale entrepreneurs. Affordable financing can transform lives, especially for young people and rural communities with innovative ideas but limited access to opportunity. Our small businesses are the backbone of employment and innovation, so empowering them will strengthen the broader economy and drive economic growth. Malawi is already making encouraging progress in areas such as digital financial services, SME development and financial inclusion.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would probably have pursued a career in law. I enjoy identifying challenges and doing analysis, and law involves both these skills.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading books, especially biographies of business leaders that often carry lessons that apply to everyday life. I also enjoy keeping up with sports, especially the Premier League, NBA and Formula One. Sport can teach a lot about discipline, teamwork, resilience and consistency. I enjoy nature and am interested in small-scale agriculture. Eventually, I’d like to retire on a farm somewhere peaceful and away from busy city life.
