AN OVERVIEW:
As the country’s economic needs evolve, the demand for skilled finance professionals increases. That’s when ACCA professionals and ACCA Affiliates in Zimbabwe step in to build a strong accounting network in Zimbabwe that stabilizes the financial sector and caters to growing economic needs. ACCA in Zimbabwe is a highly rewarded qualification that opens the door to various career opportunities within the country as well as on an international scale.
With the demand and popularity, the number of affiliates who are on their way to full membership is also growing rapidly. Are you one of the ACCA affiliates in Zimbabwe who is looking forward to getting a full ACCA membership but is unaware of your role as an affiliate? No worries, we are here to solve all your queries; this virtual guide will help you in discovering all the key information about ACCA affiliates: the challenges, opportunities, their role in the industry, and tips to build a strong network. Want to get clarity on this matter to elevate your journey as an affiliate? Please read the blog to know all about it!
WHO ARE ACCA AFFILIATES?
ACCA affiliates are the aspirants who have completed all of the ACCA exams and EPSM modules, but are in the process of completing or submitting practical experience requirements (PER). These individuals are either waiting for the completion of PER or approval of the ACCA membership; once their application to become an ACCA member is approved, they will evolve from ACCA affiliates to ACCA members. However, even with the title of an affiliate, they are eligible to take over certain professional accounting and finance roles.
THE ROLE OF ACCA AFFILIATES IN ZIMBABWE:
ACCA affiliates have played a significant role in evolving the finance sector of Zimbabwe; they bring forward technical skills, diverse knowledge, analytical skills, ethical practices, and international accounting standards. All these skills work their magic in building a strong financial sector and attracting more investments in the region. ACCA affiliates are increasing in number, but so is the need for these professionals in the Zimbabwean job market; employers from different sectors are seeking these skilled professionals. The key sectors seeking affiliates in Zimbabwe are manufacturing, banking, NGOs, consulting, audit, and government agencies.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACCA AFFILIATES:
Just like other professions and industries, these individuals also face a blend of opportunities and challenges in their professional roles; some of which are discussed ahead.
CHALLENGES:
- The common problem faced during the affiliate phase is that these individuals struggle to complete the 3-year experience period and elevate their journey from affiliate to member.
- As compared to the job opportunities and career prospects available for ACCA members, the job opportunities are limited for affiliates.
- Many ACCA affiliates struggle to find support and guidance during this phase, which makes it more challenging.
OPPORTUNITIES:
- They are valued in the job market as compared to candidates with other accounting qualifications, as the demand for transparency is growing in this sector.
- Affiliates can step forward and go in the direction of entrepreneurship.
- With the rise in digital transformation in the finance industry, ACCA affiliates can lead modernization efforts.
BUILDING A STRONG PROFESSIONAL NETWORK:
A strong professional network is quite vital for ACCA affiliates, as it allows them to collaborate, support, and help in professional development. There are multiple effective platforms to build good professional relations, some of which are discussed below:
1: LOCAL ACCA CHAPTERS AND EVENTS:
ACCA events are helpful if you are looking forward to building good professional connections by attending webinars, seminars, CPD sessions, and regular ACCA community meetups. Through these connections, affiliates can enhance their career opportunities and foster mentorship; all these benefits are promising in the long term.
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2: ONLINE COMMUNITIES:
ACCA affiliates are suggested to join online communities and discussion forums where they can interact regarding study tips, job sharing, industry changes, and much more. If you are willing to be a part of a strong professional network, leverage these online communities through platforms like LinkedIn, local online forums, WhatsApp, etc.
3: COLLABORATIONS WITH INSTITUTIONS AND EMPLOYERS:
If you want to bridge the gap between the qualification and employment, you can collaborate with employers and institutes by becoming a part of their firm/ educational institute. Typically, the easiest way to build this connection is to either go for internship programs or graduate trainee programs.
4: MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS:
Meanwhile, ACCA affiliates are trying to build their careers, and they are also encouraged to network with their juniors/aspirants of ACCA Globally who require guidance and support. ACCA affiliates can mentor them and help them make great academic choices, exam tips, and guide career pathways etc.
CONCLUSION:
According to the forecasted future of Zimbabwe’s accounting sector, the demand for professionals with ACCA qualification will significantly increase as employers will demand forward-thinking professionals with insights about local as well as international accounting standards, technical and soft skills, efficiency in ethical practices, commitment to life-long learning, etc. This tremendous change will become the norm in the accounting sector, which will need more ACCA professionals to manage the rigorous financial sectors. For now, if you are an ACCA affiliate, you still have access to many career opportunities that you can avail yourself of even without the membership.
Lastly, ACCA affiliates, students, and professionals are encouraged to build a very strong network; this network is essential to survive in the financial world, where connections can help you to avail better career opportunities and open various doors to have a progressive career.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q1: Is mentorship available for affiliates of ACCA in Zimbabwe?
Answer: Yes, ACCA affiliates in Zimbabwe can seek mentorship from ACCA-qualified colleagues and supervisors. Other than that, while networking at ACCA events, online forums, and professional development programs, you usually come across ACCA mentors.
Q2: Can I avail of global work opportunities as an ACCA affiliate in Zimbabwe?
Answer: However, ACCA is globally recognized and opens the door to numerous career opportunities; still, affiliates are unable to work internationally as global employers prefer hiring ACCA members.
