South Africa faces myriad challenges, mainly stemming from the consistently low growth rate of less than 2% for almost two decades. A decline in infrastructure and rampant corruption makes the business environment difficult, and the spectre of high youth unemployment is a risk.
There are many untapped opportunities, however, including housing and power generation. South Africa could certainly take advantage of its rail and sea connectedness and become a major regional hub for the export of FMCG products, and it should also position itself to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area and rebuild its manufacturing sector.
I was 13 when I decided I was going to be an accountant. I just knew that was what I wanted to do and I stuck to it. My career to date has included varied accounting work, with roles in logistics, film, property, publishing and practice. For the past 13 years I have run my own SMP, which I started as a part-time venture in 2007.
Having been thrown into the deep end, I swam
I stepped out of my comfort zone in 2005 when I was seconded from the firm I worked for to one of their clients, RTS Logistics. I was elevated to co-accountant and then accountant when the incumbent resigned. I was not ready but I stepped up and tackled the role despite little experience of running an office or being a key decision-maker. My transition from trainee clerk to accountant was rapid but, having been thrown into the deep end, I swam.
I pursued my MSc primarily for self-actualisation, but also because I believed it would strengthen my credibility with clients. I also wanted to add value and be recognised, as I intend to sit on boards in the future.
If I had law-making powers, I would alter the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act to incentivise the creation and growth of a new generation of enterprises. I would also look to reform the system of tendering, which is the biggest contributor to corruption, perhaps by ‘in-sourcing’ public works.
I love to see my clients grow
What I enjoy most about my work is that is I am a growth facilitator. I help my clients realise their potential by providing sound financial advice that allows them access to capital and equipment for their expansion. I love to see my clients grow.
My favourite saying is this: ‘Profit is a payment for risk.’ This resonates with me because it encapsulates the essence of entrepreneurship – taking calculated risks and being rewarded for them. Every business decision involves some degree of uncertainty, and profit is the return for embracing that uncertainty.
I have a huge creative side, so if I wasn’t an accountant I think I would be something in the arts or advertising, and maybe be an entrepreneur in that field as well.
In my spare time I am a huge Arsenal fan. When I went to London for my graduation recently, I was lucky to take in the Champions League semi-final at Emirates Stadium. Sadly we lost to Paris St-Germain, but it was a thrill to see my team play. I also enjoy writing and used to record some hip-hop, which I have recently returned to – but these days I’m using artificial intelligence to generate vocals and beats.
