Protea Financial was founded in 2014 to provide high-quality outsourced accounting at an affordable price. Given Protea’s flexible work environment, the Company especially appealed to accountants who wanted to re-enter the workforce after taking time off to start a family. This allowed Protea to attract extremely talented individuals who were previously overlooked. Protea strives to represent people from all backgrounds and provide an environment for them to grow and succeed in a setting that provides the flexibility and acceptance of who they are as people.
We selected the name Protea because is the national flower of South Africa and is a symbol of our connection. The Protea flower has become an ornamental flower because of this striking beauty and is included in arrangements and bouquets as a symbol of courage or daring to be better or a sign of positive transformation.
Protea Conversations in 2023 will focus on positive transformation and representation from all backgrounds. We are broadening our Conversations with the hope that these conversations will continue to create a forum to discuss the experiences, opportunities, and challenges leaders face, and how we can build a more diverse, inclusive, and successful environment for everyone.
In May 2023, we reached out to members of The Protea Family, with this month a focus on learning from the South African management team, to get their feedback on an important question for all accountants and those entering the profession.
The spotlight question for this month is “What advice would you give to others entering the accounting profession to help them have better, more fulfilling careers? “
This is a question about the managing expectation when entering this tough environment is important to feel satisfied with your discussion and find a way to become more resilient to the day-to-day struggle. Learning from those who have done it, helps us grow.
Some Members of The Protea Family
Michelle Bosman – Manager
Be cognizant of the importance of the accounting profession. Realize that the profession by its very nature allows us to be trusted advisors to others. Being mindful of this will allow you to appreciate the value that you add and can serve as a wonderful motivator, regardless of the space you find yourself in – whichever path you choose within the accounting field.
Lauren Peters – Manager
As the accounting profession has a couple of spheres to it, spend the time initially learning as much as you can among them all. Take the time to figure out which aspect perks your interest the most and will also positively add to your life as a whole and not just your career. Incorporate your career into your life and build them side by side and do not build your life around your career, this will feel more fulfilling overall.
Catherine Levey – Senior Manager
The Accounting field is actually really diverse in the type of work you can do so. Take every opportunity offered to you, try everything once, figure out what you are passionate about and find ways to incorporate those parts you enjoy into your weekly schedule. Be confident and don’t be afraid to fail, with failure comes learning and growth. Be open to feedback and have a learning mindset, find a mentor you can learn from and ask questions. Focus on self development and training. If you enjoy what you do and have a growth mind set you will have a fulfilling career and work won’t feel like a job.
Danielle Du Preez – Manager
Take every opportunity to learn and be open to learning in whatever form it comes. It can be hard to accept advice, constructive criticism or even dedicated performance improvement programs but with the right attitude and sense of humility these things will help you to move past what may block you in advancing within your career.
Alexandra Preston – Manager
Be part of a company that is going to challenge you and make you think outside the box. Never stop asking questions and learn from the answers you are given.
Sonja Myburgh – Group accounting manager
Don’t be afraid of the unknown, persevere by leaving your comfort zone behind and when challenges come your way see this as an opportunity for career/personal growth.
Jason Wilson – Junior Manager
Always remember to reflect on how far you have come in your career and all the challenges you have had to overcome to get where you are and use this as inspiration for tackling any challenges you come across head on going forward.
As a thank you to our interview and Protea’s commitment to more diverse and inclusive leaders, Protea will donate to Canine Companions (https://canine.org/). Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so their clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. They provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients.
Independence shouldn’t be limited to those who look or live a certain way. Disability reaches all races, classes and backgrounds, and Canine Companions will too. Clients come to Canine Companions because of our reputation, the quality of our dogs, the experience of our training staff and the desire to lead life with greater independence. We are committed to providing services to all qualified clients.
Reach out to The Protea Family for questions, guidance, or just help with the financials of your business. Our experts are here to help!
