My mum was an accountant, and I grew up watching how she approached problems and interpreted numbers. That is where my interest in finance started. I began my career at a small software company, working in marketing. But after I stepped into a finance role, I rediscovered how I enjoyed the logic of numbers, analysis and the role of finance in business decisions.
After I gained the ACCA qualification, which I did while raising a young family, I moved through multiple financial roles, from purchasing to business partnering. I now bring that experience in my work as a lecturer in accounting and finance. One of the things I enjoy about my role is the students’ curiosity and the energy they bring; I greatly value seeing their progress. At every graduation, I feel I have played a part in something that truly matters. Recently, I was also awarded funding for my PhD, which is researching gamification in finance education, with the aim of making learning more engaging for students.
AI is a bit like a toddler: it learns from how we guide it
Teaching is starting to evolve with AI. I see it as a tool that can really support students with data, exploring ideas and developing their skills. However, students need to learn how to use AI responsibly and understand the risks. AI is a bit like a toddler: it learns from how we guide it, so the quality of input really matters. We must encourage curiosity while helping students use AI in a thoughtful and ethical way.
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I started speaking publicly, especially as I had to present in a second language. I’ve always been a people person but standing up in front of an audience felt very different. It was stressful, but I knew that strong communication skills were essential for my career, so I volunteered for presentations and watched the best presenters. While I still feel nervous at times, it became easier and I can now communicate ideas clearly.
My favourite quote is from Lucy M Montgomery: ‘We should regret our mistakes and learn from them but never carry them forward into the future with us.’ Mistakes are part of growth. They help us discover things we would not have found otherwise. I also like this from Albert Einstein: ‘Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value’. Success is important, but sharing my knowledge and supporting students is what matters most to me.
Everyone who wants to learn should have the opportunity to do so
If I had law-making powers, I would improve access to education. Everyone who wants to learn should have the opportunity to do so. Making learning more accessible would help individuals grow throughout their careers.
In a dreamworld, if I hadn’t been an accountant, I would be a professional ice skater. It is highly demanding, but it is an artform that I find very inspiring.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, discovering new places and cultures with my family. I also like playing games, influenced by having children and being immersed in their world. I like fantasy books, too, which help me escape into a world of imagination.
