Lifelong learning and hard work - the secrets to Claris Mugodo's success

My name is Claris Mugodo and I am a Life Member of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. I qualified for the Associate and Fellow membership status in 1990 and 1991, respectively. My position at the time was Credit Controller in a motor manufacturing company based in Zimbabwe. During and after my studies, my understanding of accounting and administration was very much enhanced.

I recall working hand in hand with the then Financial Controller who was impressed with my personal contribution to the department. News of my achievements were also well received by the Financial Controller, who in turn would delegate work to me if the Financial Accountant was tied up with other pressing issues, since the company reported to the UK on monthly basis.

I enjoyed working for this company as they fully appreciated my contribution and excellent team building skills. I resigned from this company when they could not promote me to the position of Senior Bookkeeper/Assistant Accountant because of a company policy which stipulated that one had to have a Bachelor's degree or be studying towards one. As I was already raising a family it was difficult for me to embark on course equivalent to a degree.

However, in 1995 I decided to register with the Institute of Chartered Secretaries & Administrators on a part time basis. I finally completed the CIS International Qualifying Scheme (ICSA). I was a mother, wife and career woman and I also worked hard and climbed the corporate ladder to the position of General Manager - Finance & Corporate services. Now I am in my final year for the Masters in Business Administration.

I particularly want to encourage women from all walks of life not to abandon their aspirations. I have to acknowledge that the ICB gave me a very strong foundation in all that I have managed to achieve today.