Difference Makers Podcast

Imagine the career you thought you wanted taking an unexpected turn, leading you to uncharted territories that not only redefine your future but also impact thousands of lives. That's the journey Mathabo took, trading potential scrubs for financial statements, and we get an insider's look at her ascent to a pivotal role in accountancy. From Soweto to the chairperson of investments at Manowakas Providence Fund, Mathabo tells us of the grandmotherly wisdom and a fortuitous newspaper article that shifted her gaze from medicine to the world of numbers—a move that would bring transformative change to her life and to the communities she serves. Her story is a vivid portrayal of the power behind aligning one's career with their passion, a strategy that not only fuels personal growth but also enables accountants like her to shape industry policies and the fate of pension funds.

Navigating the corporate landscape without a blueprint can be daunting, especially for first-generation university graduates such as Mathabo. In this episode, she opens up about the necessity of mentorship and the tenacity required to carve a successful path with little guidance. Our discussion is a treasure trove of wisdom for young professionals, offering a glimpse into the resilience needed to tackle challenges head-on. Mathabo's anecdotes are a beacon for those finding their way, proving that with purpose-driven perseverance, individuals can rise above the odds to lead and inspire. So buckle in, and prepare to be propelled by the force of Mathabo's experiences, a testament to the remarkable difference one can make with dedication and the courage to follow an unanticipated call to leadership.

Embark on a journey with Naomi Walsh, the trailblazing Vice President of Chartered Accountants Australia  and New Zealand, as she unveils her extraordinary ascent in the accounting world. Her story, a testament to tenacity and ambition, begins in regional Tasmania and ascends to international heights, with a career-defining role in the UK working on the Olympics. Naomi's candid revelations about overcoming gender bias, fostering confidence, and the power of global experiences provide a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone aspiring to leave a mark in their field.

Our conversation with Naomi takes a deep look into the transformative effects of international networking and cultural exposure on career progression. Naomi's perspective, seasoned by global adventures, sheds light on the unique community spirit of Tasmania and how it influences professional dynamics. She emphasizes the importance of educational programs that equip the next generation with employability skills and industry connections. The nuances of workplace culture across different regions are also dissected, demonstrating the importance of understanding and adapting to these differences for career success.

Lastly, Naomi and I delve into the revolution of the accounting profession, particularly its expanding role in driving sustainability. Echoing the ambitions of a new generation of accountants, Naomi highlights how the profession transcends traditional expectations, merging financial acumen with creativity and social responsibility. Her passion for guiding aspirants shines through as we discuss the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals into accounting practices and Tasmania's pioneering efforts in carbon accounting. This episode is a clarion call for those who envision a career that not only excels in the balance sheets but also balances the needs of society and the planet.

From the comforting confines of Shelcross to the empowering platform of Boss Babes of South Africa, Kovini Moodley's journey is one rich with insights and heart.

In a candid conversation, Kovini bares the soul of her transformative path, intertwining tales of mentorship's might and the vibrant prospects within the world of Chartered Accountancy. As we mark the joyous arrival of a newborn in our community, Kovini's narrative reminds us of the profound impact that support systems have on both personal growth and career trajectories.

Subverting the 'PHD Syndrome'—Pull Her Down Syndrome  - Kovini champions a league of women united in collaboration, not competition. The conversation sheds light on the barriers erected by societal conditioning that pit professionals against one another, and Kovini's firsthand experiences with turning authenticity into a superpower in the social media landscape. Amidst the laughter and camaraderie, her wisdom on crafting content with heart speaks volumes to those seeking to make their mark in a world that's constantly scrolling.

The finale of this episode is a testament to the enduring influence of mentors, like Kovini, who are shaping the futures of young chartered accountants. We traverse the terrain of belonging, the fight for equity, and the shared responsibility to combat biases that persist in workplaces. And as we bid farewell, a moment of humor punctuates our chat, humanizing the very essence of podcasting. 

Keep your ears peeled for the upcoming voices that promise to continue stirring the pot of change and inspiration right here on our platform.

When Liam Guthrie stepped onto the university campus, he was stepping into uncharted territory for his family. His journey from a numbers enthusiast to a strategic thinker in the accountancy world is nothing short of inspiring. 

On our latest episode, Liam, who shattered the mold of a traditional accountant, shares how his role transcends mere number crunching and evolves into the art of communicating financial intricacies to business leaders. 

This conversation is for anyone who believes that their background might define their future—it doesn't. Liam's work with the ICAS Foundation and his empowering keynote speech at the ICAS admission ceremony illuminate the importance of diversity in thought and experience in the field of accountancy.

Have you ever found yourself saying "no" to opportunities out of habit? It's time to switch that mindset and embrace the power of "yes." This episode is a rallying call to push beyond your comfort zone and seize the chances that can shape not only your career but also the face of an entire profession. 

We discuss how taking on roles that aid social mobility, like those fostered by ICAS, can lead to a more inclusive industry and bring about societal change. If you're looking for a nudge to step up and make a difference while pursuing growth in your professional life, Liam's narrative and our discussion on positive action will give you that push. Join us and be part of the conversation that challenges the norm and champions progress.

A graduate in Engineering from Nanyang Technological University, Jeremy defied norms by entering the accountancy profession. His unique journey breaks down barriers and aims to inspire aspiring professionals to pursue unconventional paths.

Listen and gain insights into Jeremy’s firsthand experiences in external assurance services; explore the intersections of sustainability, technology, and defence in accounting, and discover how an engineering background can lead to a successful career in accountancy.

Jeremy’s story isn’t just about his personal journey – it’s a call to action. By challenging traditional career paths, he envisions transforming the future of the Chartered Accounting profession.

Don’t miss out on the insights, wisdom, and motivation he has to offer!

Tune In and Get Inspired!

In this episode, we have the pleasure of hearing from Liswaniso Namatama, a remarkable individual who not only excels in his professional life but also has a deep passion for empowering others through education.

 Liswaniso utilizes his strong ethical values and leadership skills to lead audit projects in his workplace. His dedication to his work is evident, and he is often seen as a wise and experienced individual despite his young age.

However, Liswaniso's interests extend far beyond his work as an accountant. He has a keen interest in current events, sports, music, and travel. But above all, Liswaniso prioritizes his family and friends, recognizing the profound importance of human connections and the support of loved ones.

Recently, Liswaniso had the incredible opportunity to be part of the Chartered Accountants Worldwide delegation at One Young World in Belfast. In this episode, he shares his inspirational journey, reflecting on his experiences and the impact this event had on him.

Ever wondered why accountants are at the forefront of sustainability measures? This enlightening conversation with Maria Teo, a respected member of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants, will give you all the knowledge you need. Maria shares her personal journey, starting from her foundational auditing background through to her exciting foray into sustainability. This episode isn't just about Maria's career though, she provides a rare insight into the role of accountants in aiding companies to embrace sustainable practices.

As we navigate the various chapters of this episode, Maria discusses her work in forensic accounting and fraud investigation, highlighting the knowledge and skills she acquired. She further shares how she found her true passion in sustainability and climate change. Her unique perspective on the crucial role accountants play in promoting sustainability within companies is a must-listen. She shares her firsthand experience of guiding companies towards sustainable practices and highlights the trends and challenges in sustainability reporting. 

The episode ends on a powerful note as Maria emphasizes the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in the fight for global sustainability. As a representative at the One Young World conference, Maria underscores the need for collective effort. Maria's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and ambition, offering valuable advice for budding accountants interested in making a significant impact in their field. Don't miss out on this exciting conversation about the intersection of accountancy and sustainability.

Ever thought of accountants as life-savers? You will be surprised by today's guest, Veronica Beilby, a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, who strongly believes that accountants too can make a significant difference in society. 

Veronica invites us into her unusual journey of becoming a Chartered Accountant, and how she’s been able to impact people's lives positively with her work. She brings to light the crucial role accountants played during the COVID-19 pandemic, alleviating financial stress and potentially saving lives. You'll be captivated by her philosophy of continuous learning, the power of human connection, and the art of storytelling in her profession.

Veronica's compelling perspective continues as she embraces the power of networking and finding purpose amid career challenges. Drawing from her personal experiences during the pandemic, Veronica emphasizes the importance of forging meaningful connections and having a definitive purpose to steer one towards success. 

Her stories of fellow accountants who have creatively leveraged their skills to effect positive change will inspire you to push beyond limits. You’re guaranteed not just an appreciation for the world of accounting, but also a healthy dose of inspiration to fuel your own journey. Tune in to hear Veronica's riveting tales of resilience, determination, and how she maintained a positive outlook amidst adversity.

Ever wonder what truly makes an accountant tick? In our latest episode, we sit down with the formidable Abigail Foster, an ACA Chartered Accountant who has used her credentials to explore a dynamic and fulfilling career in the accounting field. 

Abigail's journey from a math-focused student to a successful entrepreneur with a mission to redefine accountancy stereotypes, serves as the perfect narrative to challenge your preconceived notions about accountants. 

From resilience to people skills, Abigail’s story is a testament to the fact that accountancy is more than just crunching numbers. 

As we navigate deeper into the financial world, we turn the spotlight on how accountants, like Abigail, can provide invaluable support to their loved ones, beyond their regular clientele. The conversation explores how accountancy can not only support a lifestyle of travel and passion pursuit but also spread financial literacy among friends and family. 

This episode is a testament to the unique versatility of accountancy as a profession that can have profound influences beyond the professional realm. So buckle up and let’s redefine accounting together!

Ever wondered what it's like to step into a new role just before a global crisis strikes? Tune in as we chat with Caroline Sherry, the CFO of Hostelworld PLC, who did just that.

Embarking on her role as CFO just before the pandemic hit, Caroline navigates us through her intriguing journey, revealing how she tackled the unique challenges this situation presented. Despite having a background in science, Caroline shares why she chose to pursue accountancy and how her career path was impacted by the financial crash.

Beyond her personal journey, Caroline is actively involved in advancing gender equality in the workplace. As a member of Balance for Better Business, she shares the strides that have been made towards gender balance in Ireland, and how the pandemic has affected these efforts.

Lastly, we look to the future, as we discuss the impact of AI on communication in the travel industry, and why setting goals is so crucial.

So, if you're ready for an engaging, thought-provoking conversation, this episode is for you!