What time do you usually wake up on weekdays? 

I am a night owl. 
I slowly start my day after 09:00, but I am more productive in the evening towards the early hours of the morning. 

How do you spend the first hour of your day?  

Coffee before Tax. 
I start my day with a cup of coffee, slowly go through my emails, and my schedule for the day. 

What sparked your interest in finance? 

My first boss. Mr. Peter Ho Tong. Intergold Accountants was my first job, and I have learned I do today from Mr. Peter Ho Tong. 

Can you share some career highlights and defining moments? 

Radio Live television interviews. My first SABC news interview was back in 2021, regarding the regarding the amendment on tax credit for medical expenses for disability. 

My recent SABC was early this year, regarding SARS 2023/2024 collection. 

How do you handle professional challenges? 

Technical difficulties have always been an interesting part of my work. Our work is mostly based on software and online applications. Part of my studies was Business Information Systems, which contributed to my corporate technical issues problem solving. 

Being in the industry for over 10 years has also given me the opportunity to learn human behavior and people skills. 

What future goals are you excited about? 

I am working on enrolling tax and accounting graduates on a internship programme, as we are registered with SAIT as a workplace provider. 

Have you had any international or different cultural experiences in your career? 

None. 

What key skills should a newly qualified accountant develop on their path to becoming a CFO? 

Technical and people skills. 
An accountant should be well versed in most areas of business compliance. 
Being able to effectively communicate with clients and bringing forth solutions is a crucial part of being in business.

  
How do you balance your personal and professional life? 

As a business owner, I work mostly on the business, my employees are fully engaged in the operations of the business. 

What are your interests outside of work? 

I am quite highly active in terms of sport activities. I play tennis in the mornings, three times a week. 

How do you contribute to the development of others in your field? 

Not at the moment but would love to be involved in mentorship in the future. 

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to be a CFO? 

Humility is key. 
Being in business or in corporate requires high emotional intelligence. Humility and respect go a long way to ensure business relationships thrive. 

What’s your favorite quote or mantra? 

Humility is everything 
Don’t hold grudges 
Take Life as it comes 
Be happy and more will come. 

Share your favorite leadership lesson. 

The best advice I have received was from my first boss. He always told me to pray first before I engage in my tasks. 
Prayer has always given me guidance and spiritual discernment.  

What’s something surprising about you that isn’t in your business bio?  

I used to play football. 

What’s your favorite non-business app on your phone?  

Canva. I enjoy creating and designing posts and short videos. 

If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be?  

Take the financial / compliance stress off my clients. 

What’s your go-to strategy for staying productive during long workdays? 

Coffee, water, soft music, frequent breaks. 

If you could relive one day from your professional career, which day would it be and why? 

I was able to recover a substantial number of allowable deductions for a client. The client executives were aware of this achievement and that was one of the moments that brought recognition of my performance in the team.