TAKONDWA MWAGOMBA’S INSPIRING JOURNEY TO RECORD CIFA SUCCESS
At just 21 years old, Takondwa Mwagomba, a determined and visionary student from Pact College Lilongwe, has achieved an extraordinary milestone — qualifying for the Certificate in Financial Accounting (CIFA) in record time during the June 2024 diet. His story is a powerful testament to ambition, discipline, strategic learning, and the unwavering belief in one’s potential.
Takondwa Mwangomba receiving his certificate of recognition at Excellence Awards
Takondwa’s journey into accounting wasn’t a matter of chance, but a path chosen out of genuine fascination. “I’ve always been fascinated by the accounting field,” he shares. He recognized the universal applicability and critical importance of accounting knowledge. “I believe the knowledge and skills acquired in accounting are very crucial in many fields,” Takondwa explains, adding a personal driver: “something that I felt like I needed to have as a person who aims to establish my own business someday.”
This initial qualification is just the beginning for Takondwa. His sights are set higher: “My long term goal is to go ahead and do an Accounting Technician Diploma. I hope to become a Chartered Accountant someday,” he reveals, reiterating his dual aspiration “to become a chartered accountant as well as to run my own business.”
Completing the CIFA quickly wasn’t just about efficiency; it was a calculated move rooted in self-confidence and strategic thinking. “I believed in myself first,” Takondwa states confidently. “I wanted to have the perfect start so I could carry on with that energy for the rest of my accounting studies.” He aimed to build momentum and set a high standard for his future academic pursuits.
Achieving such rapid progress required a well-defined and effective study routine. Interestingly, Takondwa highlights the foundation of his academic energy: “My study routine began with sleep. Enough sleep was important as it helped me stay focused and energetic during study sessions.”
His daily strategy involved tackling complexity head-on. “I also dealt with the toughest topics and subjects in the morning when am most fresh and easier things later during the day.”
Takondwa employed specific techniques to maximize his learning efficiency. “There is this study technique called the Pomodoro technique,” he explains. “With this technique, I studied for 2 hours, taking 5 minutes break after every 25 minutes and a 30 minute break before another session.” The method promotes focused bursts of concentration. Furthermore, he balanced new information with consolidation: “I also dedicated two thirds of my study time to studying new content and one third to revision during every session.”
Resources extended beyond traditional materials. While textbooks were essential, Takondwa actively sought broader understanding. “Yes, I would normally try to understand the topics better through the internet,” he says. Crucially, he emphasizes the power of collaboration: “a really great part of my achievement was the people I was surrounded with. I was always learning from my classmates.”
Effective time management was key to balancing rigorous studies with personal life. “I allowed myself time for other things I love to do by having some specifically dedicated time to do whatever I wanted after studies. So, the studies came first and the other things came as rewards,” he shares, highlighting a disciplined yet balanced approach.
The path wasn’t without its difficulties. Entering the world of accounting presented initial challenges. “The lack of familiarity with the program,” Takondwa cites as the most challenging aspect. “It was like I was getting introduced into a different world with different laws from anything I knew.” He specifically remembers early struggles: “I really struggled when I was getting started with CIFA to understand some of the things since accounting was new to me. I remember having trouble with the Business Accounting subject at the start.”
His approach to overcoming these obstacles was one of persistent, incremental progress. “I didn’t try to get everything right overnight,” he wisely notes. “Every day that came by I aimed to learn something that could make me better than yesterday even if it was small. I believe that minor change is still change.”
Support systems proved invaluable. “Yes, my environment had a big impact on how I performed,” Takondwa acknowledges gratefully. “Starting with the lecturers who were very encouraging and motivating, family and friends who showed their belief in me every day.” Financial hurdles also emerged, but were navigated with crucial support: “Yes, there were some financial challenges along the way but God helped me through my parents and other people who did everything to make sure I could complete the program.”
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Malawi (ICAM) also played a supportive role. Takondwa specifically recalls valuable guidance: “One thing that particularly stands out is some advice I saw on how to prepare for and take the exams. That really helped.”
ICAM formally recognized Takondwa’s outstanding performance. “Yes, I was awarded with Certificate of Merit which certified my achievement, as well as some money,” he confirms, appreciating the official acknowledgment of his hard work and record-setting pace.
Drawing from his experience, Takondwa offers advice to fellow and future students. He cautions against negative preconceptions: “I think there are usually speculations about how difficult CIFA is which tends to put those taking the program under pressure, but I believe that’s something we get to decide for ourselves.” His key takeaway? “Working hard and smart is the key.”
To all aspiring accountants in Malawi, his message is centered on faith and diligence: “To always put God first in everything because he is the one who grants us all the blessings and the abilities.”
Reflecting on his CIFA journey, Takondwa shares a profound lesson learned: “One thing I learnt was that we choose what we can or cannot do. If you set your mind on something anything is possible.”
Takondwa Mwagomba’s rapid success in the CIFA program is more than just an academic triumph; it’s a compelling narrative of ambition, smart work, resilience, and the power of a positive mindset. His journey from fascination to fast-tracked qualification serves as a potent inspiration for students across Malawi, demonstrating that with dedication, strategic planning, and unwavering self-belief, even the most challenging goals are within reach. ICAM celebrates his outstanding achievement and looks forward to seeing his future contributions to the accounting profession in Malawi.
By Editor-in-Chief