In a world where career paths often take unexpected turns, Lesego Moabi’s story stands out for its clarity of vision, relentless discipline, and powerful sense of purpose. From discovering the Chartered Accountancy (CA) profession in a newspaper to becoming a senior professional in finance, her journey is a testament to focus, resilience, and the value of staying the course.
A Childhood Dream Fueled by Purpose
For Lesego, the idea of becoming a Chartered Accountant wasn’t a last-minute decision—it was part of the plan from the very beginning. “I remember reading about the CA profession in the newspaper and instantly being drawn to it. It sounded really dynamic, a respected career and something that aligned with my aspirations,” she recalls. That spark, combined with her natural love for numbers and the influence of her mother—a high school accounting teacher—set the foundation for what would become a lifelong pursuit.
Growing up in a family with an entrepreneurial background, she became curious about how businesses functioned and dreamed of running or building her own one day. “Becoming a CA felt like the most empowering foundation to bring that dream to life,” she says.
The Rigors of Academia
Lesego pursued both her BCom and postgraduate qualification at Wits University. The experience was not without challenges. “The pressure to perform was intense,” she admits. But the real turning point came when she realized that success wasn’t just about being intelligent. “It demanded grit, discipline, and the ability to adapt,” she explains. It was during these formative years that she learned how to focus under pressure—skills that would serve her well in the years ahead.
Finding Her Place Beyond Audit
Her article journey began in auditing, but 11 months in, Lesego knew she needed something more commercially grounded. This realization led her to a government-owned development finance institution (DFI), a pivotal move that would deeply influence her career trajectory. “My time at this institution laid the foundation for the career I’ve built today,” she says. “It was where I was first exposed to deal-making, and what began as a curiosity quickly evolved into a deeper passion for development finance.”
This transition was transformative—not only in building technical competence but also in shaping her personal growth. “I was stretched in ways that built my resilience, shaped my adaptability, and taught me the value of agility in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment,” she reflects. “It gave me the confidence to begin charting a path towards leadership with intent and purpose.”
The Final Hurdles and the Power of the CA Designation
Earning the CA(SA) designation wasn’t without its hurdles. “There are two board exams that you have to pass,” Lesego notes. “It was challenging, the pressure was on, but looking back, it was empowering.” Impressively, she passed both on her first attempt. Achieving the designation, she says, was deeply fulfilling: “It represented years of hard work, sacrifice, and personal growth. More than just a title, it opens doors, gives you credibility, and allows you to chart your own path.”
A Decade of Purpose
Lesego spent over a decade at a state-owned DFI, rising from analyst to dealmaker and eventually leading deal teams. “What kept me there for so long was the sense of purpose,” she says. “Structuring deals that deliver both commercial value and economic impact was truly fulfilling.” Working at a Development Finance Institution gave her a front-row seat to transformative projects—some the first of their kind in South Africa.
Her work wasn’t just about numbers and spreadsheets—it was about making a difference. “It reminded me that I was part of something greater than myself,” she says with pride.
Mentorship: Paying It Forward
From the very beginning of her journey, mentorship played a critical role. “Even in high school, I was having conversations about my career with people who were ahead of me,” she shares. Those relationships provided encouragement, guidance, and invaluable insight. Today, Lesego is determined to pass on that support. “It’s both a responsibility and a privilege,” she explains. “Helping others grow and find their path is something I hold close to my heart.”
Whether it’s being officially assigned mentees or being approached by aspiring professionals who’ve followed her journey, Lesego embraces the opportunity to empower the next generation.
The Skills That Matter in Finance
When it comes to thriving in the finance sector, Lesego emphasizes the importance of both hard and soft skills. “You need to have a strong affinity for numbers—that’s a given,” she says. “But just as important are attributes like agility, resilience, adaptability, and self-awareness.” These are the traits, she believes, that sustain long-term success in a fast-evolving financial landscape.
Maintaining Balance in High-Pressure Environments
Despite her high-level responsibilities, Lesego is intentional about creating balance. “Work-life balance is something that I prioritize,” she says. “Making time for the people and things that matter outside of work keeps me grounded.” It’s an ongoing practice, but one she finds essential for sustaining both performance and personal well-being.
Staying the Course
When asked what advice she would give to young professionals, Lesego’s message is clear: “Follow your passion and stay the course. Every challenge will shape you. Becoming a CA is deeply rewarding and opens a world of opportunity to lead, influence, and drive meaningful impact.”
And if finance hadn’t worked out? “I probably would have pursued a career in sports,” she laughs. “I used to play netball and thought I’d become a professional netball player.”
In many ways, Lesego’s journey embodies the values of the CA profession—precision, determination, leadership, and purpose. For anyone considering the road to CA, her story is a powerful reminder that while the path may be demanding, the destination is worth every step.
