Annline Wachira desired to become a doctor in her younger age, in an effort to be of great help and reach to others. However, this desire quickly changed when she discovered business that brought out her new passion in accounting.

 

Now working in one of the top four audit firms, Annline is grateful for her choice of career which she believes will provide greater insights into her financial world and in reaching out to the society.

Which course did you study at Strathmore?

I studied a Bachelor of Commerce – Finance and Accounting Majors. This was after I completed my ACCA qualification in 2014.

Why Accounting and Finance?

I grew up determined to become a doctor so that I can be of great reach and help to others. However, while in High School I developed an interest for business drawing from engaging in a successful business venture with a couple of my Business Studies classmates, of selling success cards during the KCSE examination periods. Therefore, while waiting for the Joint Admissions Board (JAB) intake, I enrolled for ACCAs at Strathmore University to learn more on business.

 

I enjoyed learning accounting, it was exciting, encouraging me to pursue it to completion. After that I enrolled for the BCOM exempt, to further my knowledge in Finance and Accounting, which coincidentally increased my networking options.

How did you end up at PwC and in what field are you working?

I made an online application through the graduate recruitment programme in February of this year, after which I went through various interviews running from March-July. After being successful in the final interview that was conducted by the PwC Partners, I was informed that I had passed and I was set to join the firm in September. I was excited, to say the least. The interview process was very rigorous but Dr. McFie was of great assistance as he encouraged me through the various stages, constantly reminding me to be myself throughout the interview process.

 

I currently work as an Internal Auditor under the Risk Assurance line of service. I am elated as the position provides me with the opportunity to work with clients from different industries.

How is the experience so far?

The experience has been remarkable. Every day I learn something different and in as much as it can get a bit intense, there is a strong support system that enables me to absorb well into the system. PwC also has policies in place that support employees in various aspects of their lives so as to bring out the best of them.

 

Without any doubt, the ethics lessons learnt while at Strathmore have played a significant role in my transitioning into the work life. A key takeaway is to always do the right thing even when it is not popular. It also helps to treat others as you would like to be treated.

What are your 5-10 year plans?

In five years’ time I hope to be in a position of leadership at work and to be an expert when it comes to Risk Consulting. I also want to be a woman of influence who young girls will want to emulate. For a long time it has been believed that women cannot have a proper work-life balance but I intend to prove that assumption wrong.

 

I also plan to complete my Masters in Business Administration from a world class reputable university.

 

In ten years’ time, I might venture into academia and probably lecture (part time) at Strathmore University. By then I hope I will have attained my Doctorate Degree qualification. My passion lies in nurturing and encouraging others and I feel this would provide an appropriate avenue for that.

What would you advise current students on choosing their career paths and standing out?

Always keep hope alive, even when things seem a bit bleak. I would encourage them to believe in themselves because they have what it takes.

 

I would also encourage them to do what comes naturally to them. We all have areas we are strong at, and others we are not so strong at. It is wise to choose career paths in ones areas of strength.

 

Lastly, each student needs to aim at being the best versions of themselves, striving to be better than they were the previous day.  

 In your spare time what do you enjoy doing?

I enjoy cooking and trying out different recipes.

 

I am also an ardent fan of books and I try to read a book at least every month.

 

Nonetheless, I strive to make time to encourage people around me, especially young girls. As Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, ‘‘Life’s most urgent and persistent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” I have come to appreciate that it is the small things that make all the difference. A smile is one of them.

 

 

Congratulations Anneline on your great success.