For many, the journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) is a formidable one. It’s a path defined by academic rigor, personal sacrifices, and immense dedication. For Gracious Nkomo, this journey began in Grade 9 with a simple suggestion from a friend and culminated in her inspiring role today as a lecturer, mentor, and business leader. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and the determination to rewrite her future.
The Beginning of a Dream
“I come from a family where finances were a big challenge; therefore, education was the only way to rewrite the narrative and shape my future,” Gracious reflects. Her journey began in Grade 9 when a friend encouraged her to pursue commerce subjects due to her love for mathematics.
“That suggestion was based on my love for mathematics at the time. Little did I know that my friend was manifesting a career for me. Since that day, I have never looked back,” she recalls.
With this newfound dream, Gracious set her sights on becoming a Chartered Accountant, fully committing herself to the rigorous academic path ahead.
Navigating Academic Challenges
Gracious began her studies in BCom Accounting Science at Walter Sisulu University. While her undergraduate studies were manageable, the real challenges emerged during her postgraduate diploma (PGDA) and the SAICA Board Exams (ITC and APC).
“Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant was not an easy journey for me. While I did not struggle to complete my undergraduate degree, I repeated my postgraduate studies and both SAICA qualifying exams,” she shares.
Despite the setbacks, Gracious’s resilience never wavered. She sought out board courses, leveraged the guidance of mentors, and leaned on her faith to push through. “The promise I made to myself in Grade 9—that I would become a Chartered Accountant no matter what—kept me going,” she says.
Balancing Work, Studies, and Life
During her training contract at the Office of the Auditor-General, Gracious balanced the demands of work and study. “To qualify as a CA(SA), you need to meet the demands of your work during working hours and dedicate time to studying after hours. Failing to balance these responsibilities makes qualifying extremely challenging,” she explains.
Her perseverance was tested further when she faced failure, but her motivation came from a deeply personal place. “I always reminded myself to ask, ‘Why did you start this journey?’ For me, it was about fulfilling my heart’s desire. Giving up was never an option.”
The Transition to Teaching and Entrepreneurship
Today, Gracious wears many hats. She is a lecturer in Financial Management at the University of Pretoria and the Managing Director of Siqalo Accelerated Services (SAS), which provides consulting services in accounting, tax, business advisory, and mentoring.
“Failing was a bitter experience, but it sparked the teacher in me,” she notes. Now, she finds joy in mentoring and teaching the next generation of finance professionals.
Her entrepreneurial venture, SAS, allows her to create meaningful employment opportunities and positively impact the finance industry.
Lessons Learned and Words of Wisdom
Looking back on her journey, Gracious credits resilience, discipline, and her support system as the key factors in her success. She also emphasizes the importance of faith. “The road to qualifying as a CA is a spiritual one. Stay connected to your higher power,” she advises.
For aspiring Chartered Accountants, she offers three critical pieces of advice:
1. Pursue your dream wholeheartedly and always remember your “why.”
2. Persevere through challenges and setbacks.
3. Build a strong support system to help you stay motivated.
What Sets the CA Profession Apart?
“The CA designation is a key that opens many doors,” Gracious explains. Chartered Accountants can work in various sectors, from academia and audit to banking and consulting, making it one of the most versatile professions in finance.
A Vision for the Future
As Gracious looks to the future, her goal is to create meaningful employment opportunities and continue to inspire the next generation of finance professionals. “I hope to positively impact the future professionals of the industry,” she says.
Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams.
About Gracious Nkomo, CA(SA)
Gracious Nkomo is a Chartered Accountant CA(SA), lecturer in Financial Management at the University of Pretoria, and Managing Director of Siqalo Accelerated Services (SAS). She holds a BCom Accounting Science degree from Walter Sisulu University and a CTA from UNISA. Gracious is passionate about teaching, mentoring, and empowering the next generation of finance professionals.
Visit her website at siqaloservices.co.za to learn more about her work.
