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An Inspiring Journey of CA Women ROSHAN MEHRI CEO, Family Office House of Habib As a first-generation college graduate in my family, I took the challenging task of qualifying as a Chartered Accountant while simultaneously working as an articled clerk in early 1980s, at a professional firm in Karachi. My time at the Firm allowed me to build the strong base that I needed for my career as the Chief Accountant at Union Texas Petroleum in 1988. This was the start of my career in oil and gas industry, which spanned over twenty years, and culminated with an expatriate team leader role for Finance and Accounting in Baku, Azerbaijan. On my return to Pakistan in 2008, after a short stint at AKU, I was appointed as the CFO at Byco Petroleum. In 2010’s, I was offered the role of CEO, Family Office at the House of Habib, a global conglomerate. I am also actively involved in philanthropic work. During the last 30 years, CA professionals have continued to grow from bean counters to business leaders. While adapting to technological advancements and prioritizing education as a life-long journey, I have first-hand experienced the benefits of challenging our status-quo and stepping out of our comfort zone. I would want to see the same of all future CAs at ICAP. My best wishes to everyone. SHAGUFTA SHAMSUDDIN HASSAN CEO AKU Outreach Health Network Pakistan I had a science background and studied at all girl’s school. When I began my professional training at a practicing firm in Karachi, I realized I had to take charge, be confident to hold my own and thrive, in a male dominated team. When I cleared CA Intermediate exams in first attempt, it seemed like I had conquered Mount Everest, but soon it became clear that this was the beginning of an uphill struggle. I had to start a part-time job to take care of my children and was slowly able to transition to full-time employment. From being the Director of Finance at Institute of Business Administration to becoming the CEO at AKU Health Outreach Network Pakistan, I have learned that a woman has to put in much more effort than any man to prove her worth in the industry. We must be at the top of our knowledge, grow our skill set, be focused, dedicated, committed and resilient to continue to shatter the glass ceiling. Only we can control our own destiny! 46