Interview with Tinotenda Barwe
Tinotenda Barwe was a CA Campus student in 2018. Tinotenda was ranked number 4 out of Unisa’s Top 20 for 2018. He obtained distinctions in management accounting and tax. He also achieved the position of top TAX4862 student at Unisa in 2018.
Where are you currently working and in what position?
I currently work at PWC as an Audit Associate (SAICA Trainee Accountant)
Why do you want to become a CA (SA)?
CA(SA) is a well respected designation across the world. I intend to work in the UK and qualifying as a CA(SA) will open doors for me.
What is your dream job after completing articles?
I want to be a JSE-Accredited IFRS Advisor, however in the long run, l want to run my own IFRS consulting practice.
What were your first thoughts/feelings when you heard you had passed CTA?
I felt so relieved, I knew l was now a step closer to my goal of becoming a CA(SA).
What has been the most challenging part of your journey so far?
Studying CTA whilst working, it requires a lot of discipline.
In what way did CA Campus most assist you with your studies and passing your exams?
CA Campus videos covers all the basics you need for CTA. The lecturers provided support and motivation throughout the journey.
QUESTIONS ON CTA
What was the most challenging part of your CTA year?
I really struggled adjusting from being a full time student to studying part-time. It took me at least 3 months to adjust.
How did you keep sane during your CTA year?
The thought of possible 100% salary increase.
What is the biggest piece of advice you can give CTA students ?
Never give up, write all tests including those that you have DP. CTA is a mind game and tests your endurance. You need to keep focused and always aim to improve your marks. Set realistic and attainable goals.
What did you do in preparation for your CTA exam?
I had clear study plan. I took 3 weeks of study leave before exams. I used the first week to revisit theory and notes. Then the following week l did a lot of questions and identified areas that l needed to improve. A week before exams l was just working on the areas l was not comfortable with.
QUESTIONS ON SAICA’s ITC
What did you do in preparation for SAICA’s ITC exam?
I used my CA Campus notes to revise and did more questions.
What is the biggest piece of advice that you can give students who are preparing for SAICA’s ITC?
ITC is now less calculations and more strategic thinking and interpretation. There is lesser focus on the technical disciplines and a stronger focus on business, strategy, risk, governance and ethics. It is important to balance the technical discipline and other disciplines
5 out of the Top 20 Unisa students studied with CA Campus in 2018.
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