What time do you usually wake up on weekdays?

Can do both but prefer early bird – clear and fresh mind 

How do you spend the first hour of your day?  

Like starting work early – get coffee at breakfast at 6:15 am, ready a business book for 20mins while I have coffee and breakfast. Then I will look at emails and plan so by 8am the day is ready to go. 
Prefer workout in the evenings 

What sparked your interest in finance?  

From an early age, I was fascinated with numbers and business economics. While other children were captivated with languages, I found elegance of arithmetic, accounting and how it applied to business economics.

Numbers were not merely symbols on a page but the building blocks of stories waiting to be told. This love for numbers was more than academic; it was a lens through which to view the world, constantly seeking patterns and connections that others might overlook. 

With time the passion for numbers evolved into a desire to tell stories through them and that these stories could be used to add value and create something meaningful. Whether it was forecasting future growth, analyzing market trends, or identifying cost-saving opportunities, it could drive real-world change.

Can you share some career highlights and defining moments?

Reflecting on my career, several moments stand out as particularly memorable and gratifying. Serving as the CFO has been a role that I’ve truly enjoyed. The challenges and opportunities that come with steering the financial and strategic direction of a business have been both exhilarating and deeply rewarding. 

One of the highlights of my career was being honoured as the Winner at Sentech Africa Tech Week – Women in Tech 2023. This recognition was not only a testament to my dedication and hard work but also an acknowledgment of the strides we are making in empowering women in technology. It was an unforgettable moment that underscored the importance of diversity and innovation in the tech industry. 

My academic journey also holds a special place in my heart. Attending Stanford University was a transformative experience, and the knowledge and skills I acquired there have been instrumental in shaping my professional path. 

Another remarkable aspect of my career has been the incredible projects our business undertakes. From groundbreaking technological advancements to impactful social initiatives, our projects are a source of immense pride and joy. Being part of a team that consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible is both motivating and fulfilling. 

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of my career has been witnessing the growth of our business. The journey from a small business to a thriving enterprise has been a collective effort, and I am grateful for the talented and dedicated team I work with daily. Their passion and commitment are the driving force behind our success, and being part of this dynamic group is a privilege.  

How do you handle professional challenges?

In any endeavors, obstacles are inevitable. My approach to overcoming these challenges involves a combination of fact-gathering, maintaining emotional neutrality, engaging in tough conversations, and fostering collaboration to achieve win-win outcomes. 

The first step is to gather all relevant facts. Understanding the root cause of an issue is crucial for devising effective solutions. By focusing on concrete information, I can ensure that my approach is grounded and not swayed by misinformation or assumptions. 

Maintaining an unemotional stance is equally important. Emotional reactions can cloud judgment and lead to impulsive decisions. By staying calm and composed, I can evaluate the situation more clearly and make rational choices. This doesn’t mean ignoring emotions entirely but rather acknowledging them without letting them dominate the decision-making process. 

Tough conversations are often necessary to address obstacles directly. This involves honest, transparent communication with all parties involved. By articulating concerns and potential solutions clearly, I can foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. 

Finally, collaboration is key to creating win-win situations. By working together, we can leverage diverse perspectives and expertise to develop innovative solutions. Collaboration also involves negotiating and compromising to ensure that all parties benefit from the outcome. This cooperative approach not only resolves the immediate issue but also strengthens relationships and builds a foundation for future success.  

What future goals are you excited about?

Looking ahead, my career path is marked by a dual focus on strategic business growth and personal skill development. Professionally, my primary objective is to propel our business forward by leveraging advanced AI technologies. This involves not only integrating AI tools to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences but also staying ahead of industry trends to ensure we remain competitive.

By harnessing the power of AI, I would like to streamline processes, uncover data-driven insights, and drive innovation across all facets of our organization. 

On a personal level, I am committed to developing a deeper skill set with regards to automation and AI.  

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

Being a Microsoft partner we have a lot of international interactions, being with MS themselves, with other partners and with clients. I also have had the privilege of working with our teams across the United States and the United Kingdom. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my professional outlook, fostering a deep appreciation for the nuances of different cultures and their impact on teamwork and communication. 

What has stood out is the importance of empathy and adaptability, as even slight cultural differences could influence team dynamics and decision-making processes. 
In addition, understanding communication styles, listening actively and interpreting subtle cues, is essential. 

I learned to approach problems with a more holistic perspective, considering various viewpoints before reaching a decision. This not only improved our collaborative efforts but also built a foundation of trust and respect.  

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

With the world of technology, newly qualified accounts need to release the having financial acumen is a given the focus should be on what you do with acumen. Focus on: 

1. Strategic Thinking 
This involves understanding the broader business landscape, identifying opportunities for growth, and crafting strategies that align financial goals with the company’s vision. 

2. Leadership and Management 
The effective ability to lead diverse teams, inspire confidence, and drive performance. Developing strong management skills, including project management and delegation, is also essential. 

3. Communication Skills 
Clear and effective communication is vital, and they must be able to convey complex financial information in a manner that is understandable to stakeholders, including the board of directors, investors, and employees. 

4. Technological Proficiency 
Staying abreast of technological advancements in finance, such as financial software, data analytics, and cybersecurity, is critical. Proficiency in these areas can significantly enhance one’s ability to manage and interpret financial data. 

5. Risk Management 
Developing skills in identifying potential financial risks and implementing strategies to mitigate them is essential. 

6. Networking and Relationship Building 
Building strong professional networks and fostering relationships with key stakeholders can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Networking can also aid in career growth and staying informed about industry trends. 

How do you balance your personal and professional life?  

Balancing personal and professional life is essential for leading a fulfilling life. It is not about choosing one over the other, but about integrating various aspects of life—family, sports, religion, and work—into a harmonious whole.

Different times will inevitably demand more attention to one area than another, but the key is to ensure that each important aspect receives its due time. 

To achieve this balance, I prioritize what is important to me and allocate time accordingly. For instance, I dedicate my mornings to reading business books, which helps me stay informed and inspired in my professional life. In the evenings, however, I switch gears to read for pleasure. This routine not only enriches my knowledge but also provides a much-needed mental escape, helping me unwind and relax. 
Family time is non-negotiable. Whether it’s sharing a meal, engaging in a family activity, or simply catching up on each other’s day, these moments are vital. 

In essence, balancing personal and professional life requires deliberate effort and mindfulness. By making time for what is important, I ensure that I lead a well-rounded, fulfilled life.  

What are your interests outside of work?  

Time with family and friends is important to me. Whether it’s a family WhatsApp call to trying new restaurants, quality is critical. 

Travelling is another passion of mine. Exploring new places, immersing myself in different cultures, and experiencing new cuisine. Each journey is an opportunity to create lasting memories and learn something new about the world and myself. 

New experiences, no matter how big or small, also excite me. Trying out a new restaurant, attending a event, keeps life interesting and dynamic.

Reading, too, is a cherished pastime. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book. It’s a gateway to different worlds and ideas. 
Lastly, I love spending time with my husband. 

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

Through a combination of mentorship, sponsorships and assisting with training. 
Firstly, supporting colleagues in their career and academic advancements, through sharing knowledge, offering constructive feedback, and providing resources such as books, articles, and training materials. Encouraging continuous learning and professional.

Sponsorship at work by actively advocating for someone’s career progression. It involves endorsing their capabilities to senior leaders. 
Mentorship is another crucial aspect of development.  

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

Aspiring to be a CFO requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.

Firstly, build a strong foundation in finance and accounting but it is critical to develop a strategic mindset. CFOs are not just number crunchers; they play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s direction. Understand the business comprehensively, including its products, market, and competition.

This holistic view is crucial for making informed business decisions. In addition, leadership and communication skills are equally important and building a network is invaluable.

But most importantly, be adaptable and resilient. The financial landscape is ever-changing, and a successful CFO must navigate through economic uncertainties and organizational changes with agility and confidence.  

What’s your favorite quote or mantra? 

Life is a journey of ups and downs, and I think having a mindset of resilience and optimism is critical. I am inspired by being the best version of myself and adopting a growth mindset is crucial in striving to become the best version of oneself.

A growth mindset transforms obstacles into opportunities for improvement. It fosters a love for learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. By maintaining this mindset, we can approach every experience as a steppingstone towards self-improvement, constantly pushing the boundaries of our potential.

Let the journey itself inspire you and let the pursuit of progress keep you focused and motivated. 

It is about embracing yourself, accepting yourself and being unique that I find inspiring.

Share your favorite leadership lesson.

One of the most profound leadership lessons I’ve learned comes from the combined wisdom of Simon Sinek and Brené Brown. Both have illuminated the path of modern leadership with their unique insights, but one common thread stands out:

the principle that as a leader, you can only control yourself.

Simon Sinek emphasizes the importance of starting with “why” and leading with a sense of purpose. He advocates for leaders to inspire others by embodying the values and mission they wish to see in their organizations. This internal alignment not only fosters trust but also sets a powerful example for the team. 

Brené Brown, on the other hand, champions vulnerability and authenticity as the cornerstones of effective leadership. She argues that true leadership is about showing up with courage, embracing imperfections, and cultivating a culture of openness and empathy. By controlling their own fears and insecurities, leaders can create an environment where others feel safe to express themselves and take risks.

Together, Sinek and Brown’s teachings remind us that

The essence of leadership is self-mastery. Leaders who focus on controlling their actions, reactions, and mindset can influence their teams more effectively. They become role models, demonstrating that leadership is not about exerting control over others, but about inspiring and empowering them through personal example. 
 

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

I always say that I am a self-proclaimed Nerd. However, the definition I give the word Nerd is “An Intellectual Badass”  

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

Instagram – follow food and travel sites – dream of all my future trips and the food I can try. 

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

Massive Knowledge – have knowledge and data that you can access and solve problems. 

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

Maintaining productivity during long workdays requires effective strategies.

Start by prioritizing tasks and break your day into manageable chunks.

Set clear, achievable goals for each time block.

Take regular breaks to refresh your mind and stay hydrated.

Create a comfortable, clutter-free workspace, and minimize distractions and setting boundaries. 

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

Our CEO often shares a particular story with the staff. When he became Managing Director, I decided to resign. The company culture at the time was very much a boys’ club, and I had reached my limit. It’s a lengthy and complex tale, but to summarize, there were 11 directors, only one of whom was female. 

Upon reflection, I didn’t resign because I was incapable of handling the situation; I resigned because I believed in myself and my abilities. I knew I deserved a seat at the table and could contribute significantly to the company.

On the day I resigned, we went to lunch and had a three-hour conversation. I presented my demands: I wanted to make a meaningful impact, add value, and drive business growth. I also insisted that women should have a voice at Mint, and female empowerment had to be included as a key performance indicator (KPI). Consequently, this metric was integrated into our KPIs, and we now track diversity at every level of the business. 

I stood up for what I wanted and believed in, and it has had a massive impact that I am proud of. 

I would go back and add more, I have learnt a lot in my journey but there is more I would have said.