From a young age I had a strong interest in mathematics, and at high school I developed an interest in accounting. My mother then suggested ACCA, explaining that it was chosen by many accountants in Sierra Leone.
I started my professional career with Decker and Partners, where I gained key accounting experience. I later went into the mining industry, helping to manage a payroll of more than 2,500 employees and gaining valuable experience in the corporate world. I subsequently joined Sierra Leone Brewery, part of Heineken, working in internal controls and risk management. Following a spell with an NGO as a senior finance officer, I joined PKF Gambia as an audit senior, where I have continued to develop my expertise and leadership skills.
Relocating to another country strengthened my confidence and ability to embrace new challenges
I see myself remaining in practice for the foreseeable future. Having worked in the corporate world, I have no desire to return as I find practice more dynamic, intellectually stimulating and better for my long-term career plans.
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I left my home country and joined PKF Gambia. I had to adapt quickly to a new work environment with high expectations, familiarising myself with the firm and delivering quality work in a short period. Relocating to another country was also tough as I had to adapt to a new culture and environment, which required real resilience. However, this strengthened my confidence and ability to embrace new challenges.
Accountants play a vital role in helping business owners navigate these challenging economic times by acting as strategic advisers, rather than just providing financial reporting and tax compliance. They can support businesses through improved cashflow management, realistic budgeting and forecasting, and by providing financial insights to support decision-making. By providing a wide range of advice and practical solutions, accountants are helping businesses remain resilient during uncertainty and position themselves for sustainable long-term growth.
Coaching and developing our junior staff is very rewarding
What I enjoy most about my role is working with clients across different industries and understanding the unique challenges each of them faces. This means that every audit engagement requires critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration. I also like working with diverse teams, combining our strengths to achieve a common objective and then seeing the positive impact our work has on clients. Coaching and developing our junior staff is also very rewarding.
This is my favourite saying: ‘Make your passion your profession, then work will feel like play.’ This approach has greatly influenced my career and reminds me to view my job as an opportunity rather than a burden. Although the audit profession comes with many demanding situations, my passion sees me embrace these challenges.
If I had law-making powers, I would have legislation that promotes accountability, transparency and economic development, especially in areas that support businesses and professional growth.
If I were not an accountant, I would have liked a career in football coaching, as I have always had a passion for the sport. I enjoy analysing the game and understanding strategies, and I would love to explore coaching in the future.
Outside of work, I enjoy studying the Bible and researching various topics that broaden my knowledge. I also enjoy watching football, playing video games, and participating in Fantasy Premier League. These activities allow me to relax and maintain a healthy balance between my professional and personal life, while also helping with my critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
