On days like the International Women’s Day, we are reminded of the progress women have made across professions and the work that still lies ahead. This year’s campaign theme, “Give to Gain,” captures an important truth about leadership, particularly for women navigating professions that have historically been male-dominated: We rise by lifting others.

Finance and accounting have long been fields where leadership tables were occupied mostly by men. Although things are changing, many young women still find themselves entering boardrooms and professional spaces where they must work harder to prove their competence. My own journey has taught me that breaking the so-called glass ceiling rarely happens through dramatic breakthroughs. More often, it happens through persistence, discipline and a willingness to support others along the way.

Today, as Vice President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), I sometimes reflect on how my journey in the profession began and the lessons it carries for younger women who aspire to leadership in finance.

My path to becoming a chartered accountant was not easy, but it was deeply rewarding. Like many aspiring accountants of my generation, I prepared for the ICAN professional examinations in tuition houses. I studied at Students PYE, where I met brilliant and hardworking people who were equally determined to succeed in the profession.

Those days demanded sacrifice. After long hours of lectures, many of us remained in the classrooms because there was nowhere else to go. Sometimes we would simply find a small corner and sleep there. We woke up very early, sometimes around 3 or 4 a.m., to take a bath and return to our books before the day’s lectures started.

At the time, it felt like a necessary part of the journey. Looking back now, I realise that those experiences were shaping more than my academic preparation. They were teaching me humility, resilience and endurance. More importantly, they helped me understand one of the most important values in the accounting profession: integrity.

In finance and accounting, technical knowledge is essential, but character is even more important. Every financial report prepared, every audit conducted and every decision taken carries a responsibility that goes beyond numbers. The profession is built on trust. Without integrity, even the most talented professional will eventually lose credibility.

Those early years taught me that success in this profession is not defined only by the certificates we earn or the titles we hold. It is defined by the values we carry and the way we use our knowledge to serve society.

But individual success alone is not enough. This is where the idea of “Give to Gain” becomes especially meaningful. Leadership is not measured only by the positions we hold, but by the opportunities we create for others. Many of us did not reach where we are today without guidance and encouragement from people who believed in us. The most powerful way to honour that support is to extend the same opportunities to those coming behind us.

It is often said that when you train a woman, you train a generation. Women bring prudence, resilience and a deep sense of stewardship into professional spaces. These qualities strengthen governance, accountability and trust in our institutions.

My experience in leadership has reinforced this belief. Leadership is not simply about occupying a position; it is about the impact you make through the people you empower.

For young women considering a career in accounting or finance, there are a few lessons I would like to share.

First, embrace discipline. The profession demands dedication and continuous learning. The time you invest in building your skills will shape the opportunities available to you in the future.

Second, build strong character. Your reputation is one of your most valuable assets. Guard it carefully and make decisions that reflect the highest ethical standards.

Third, remain persistent. The path to professional success is rarely smooth. There will be challenges and moments of doubt, but perseverance is what transforms ambition into achievement.

Finally, remember that success becomes even more meaningful when it creates space for others to grow. When knowledge is shared and opportunities are extended, the entire profession benefits.

This is the true meaning of “Give to Gain.” When we give through guidance, leadership and a willingness to open doors for others, we do not lose anything. Instead, we gain stronger networks, stronger institutions and a more inclusive accountancy profession.

Looking back at my own journey, from the long nights in tuition houses to the responsibilities of leadership today, I can say with confidence that the effort was worthwhile. The accounting profession offers more than a career; it offers an opportunity to serve society through transparency, accountability and responsible financial management.

And when women continue to rise while lifting others along the way, we do more than break barriers. We help build a stronger future for the profession in Nigeria, Africa, and across the world.

#IWD2026 #InternationalWomensDay #GivetoGain