Charting a unique path
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT
With experience across continents and a voice that resonates with aspiring chartered accountants (CAs) and young professionals alike, Vanessa Iileka is a dynamic CA and content creator who is passionate about finance, education and mentorship. She is carving a unique path in both the finance world and the digital space.Her journey began at Rhodes University, where she earned a bachelor of commerce and a postgraduate diploma in accounting, also known as the Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA).
“CTA was definitely the beast that everyone talks about, but like every mountain, you come out the other side stronger than before,” Iileka said.
That resilience would soon shape her career.
Iileka started at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Namibia as an associate while completing her articles and steadily rose to the position of assurance manager.
“CA articles require you to learn a lot at an incredible pace,” she said. “But it also requires you to share your knowledge, and that’s where my passion for education began.”
Sharing knowledge
Now based in Europe, she currently serves as a senior associate at PwC Netherlands, continuing her path in audit and assurance across diverse markets. Her day-to-day work involves poring over financial statements, standards and supporting documents, but she finds purpose in mentorship.
“The most fulfilling part of my job is imparting knowledge to future CAs, whether through on-the-job coaching or general career advice,” she said.
Beyond her professional career, Iileka is also a personal finance content creator, using her social media platforms to empower others with practical money tips. “I like to share my financial journey with non-finance young professionals so they can learn from my mistakes and maybe pick up a trick or two.”
When she’s not in the boardroom or behind a camera, you’ll find her in a Pilates studio or training for a marathon.
She advises aspiring CAs to be rooted in their ‘why’. “Why are you doing this? Let that anchor you during this difficult yet rewarding journey.”