Young accountant blazing a trail in Eastern Cape
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A love of numbers and solving challenging calculations is what inspired Zama Sigcau to pursue a career in accounting and then giving others a helping hand in the corporate world.
Lusikisiki-born Sigcau is the founder of Sigcau N N Accountants, which she established in 2009.
She has offices in Komani, East London and Mthatha.
“I have never seen myself as an employee, but rather passionate entrepreneur who enjoys helping people with anything that is accounting-related and also as someone who creates job opportunities. I believe my journey is to help people from rural communities ”
Sigcau made it her responsibility to start a business that would help young graduates.
“I have employed more than 25 young aspiring accountants within the three branches.”
Sigcau employs three chartered accountants, five corporate accountants, seven junior accountants, six office administrators and personal assistants and receptionists.
Growing up Sigcau saw an opportunity to assist in her family business when she realised her late father struggled to balance the numbers.
“... My mother was a nurse, father a plumber; the majority of my family members were into law or other careers which did not involve numbers.
“I enjoy helping businesses with their accounts as I have come to realise that people struggle to handle their finances.”
The accounting honours graduate said as a black woman she had encountered challenges in the corporate world.
“People have a tendency of approaching me with the full knowledge that I am a professional and qualified accountant, but want to commit fraud using my business, but I never allow that to happen.
“Since I opened a branch in East London, it has been challenging, as East London is big city and it is demanding,” she said.
She gains her clientele through word of mouth, social media platforms and community radio stations.
“Though I am an accountant, I always make sure that I am visible in rural communities, especially when there are activities.
“I not only advertise my company, but also involve myself by donating to those from disadvantaged backgrounds,” Sigcau said.
The company offers a variety of services including registration of companies, income tax, tax clearance, financial reports, full accounting and auditing services and auditing for SMMEs and schools.
“We perform all functions in respect of the completion of returns and other official documents of all taxes administered by Sars to meet clients’ needs and expectations,” she said.
The company can be contacted at their head office in Komani on 045-839-3133, East London on 043-721-3461 or 072-348-1845 and Mthatha office on 047-531-4838 or 081-519-5098.
People can also email Sigcau at nsigcau@sigcauaccountants.co.za or visit their website at www.sigcauaccountants.co.za.