A Transformative Encounter with Mr. Samira Anthony

In a remarkable session hosted by the Student Forum of the Association of Chartered Accountants of Kandy on 16th May 2025, aspiring Chartered Accountants had the rare privilege of gaining firsthand insights from one of Sri Lanka’s most respected finance professionals—Mr. Samira Anthony, Chief Financial Officer of Phoenix Ventures (Pvt) Ltd.

As part of the Road to CA series, this second session was not merely a lecture but an intellectually engaging dialogue that combined technical acumen, practical experience, and motivational clarity. Mr. Anthony’s long-standing expertise in financial management and forensic accounting served as a foundation for a discussion that was both rich in knowledge and highly relevant to today’s accounting students.

Guiding the Next Generation of Finance Professionals
Mr. Anthony’s presentation went far beyond theoretical concepts. His goal was clear: to equip students with the tools, mindset, and resilience required to succeed in the dynamic landscape of accounting and finance. He touched on several core themes—ranging from the role of forensic auditing to the importance of conceptual clarity, the integration of data analytics in accounting, and strategies for career development.

 Key Takeaways from the Session

• Understanding Forensic Auditing: A Detective’s Role in Finance
  Mr. Anthony explained how forensic auditing stands apart from traditional auditing practices. It involves investigating financial discrepancies, detecting fraud, and gathering legally admissible evidence. He drew parallels between forensic auditors and detectives, emphasizing the level of professional skepticism and analytical precision required in this field. For those intrigued by investigative work within finance, this niche offers both challenge and impact.
•  The Foundation of Financial Management
  Drawing on his experience as a CFO, Mr. Anthony highlighted the critical areas of financial management that young professionals must master:
  • Cash flow control
  • Capital budgeting
  • Risk mitigation strategies
  • Regulatory compliance

He noted that these areas form the bedrock of corporate financial health and that mastering them is essential for any professional aiming to reach senior leadership roles.

•  Building a Strategy for CA Exam Success
  One of the most relatable parts of Mr. Anthony’s session focused on exam preparation. He candidly discussed the rigor of CA examinations, acknowledging that intelligence alone does not guarantee success.
  He encouraged students to:
  • Establish structured study plans
  • Practice time discipline
  • Minimize digital distractions (especially social media)
  • Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization

According to Mr. Anthony, a student who is consistent, curious, and committed is far more likely to pass than one who relies solely on last-minute cramming.

• Embracing a Changing Curriculum
  Acknowledging that the CA syllabus is frequently updated, Mr. Anthony urged students to view changes as opportunities, not obstacles. The evolving curriculum is designed to reflect the ever-changing needs of the profession and global financial systems. Being adaptable and open to continuous learning is a trait that will serve professionals well throughout their careers.
• Data Analytics: The New Frontier in Forensic Accounting
  An exciting aspect of the session was Mr. Anthony’s discussion on the increasing integration of data analytics in forensic accounting. He explained how modern forensic auditors use analytical tools to process and interpret large volumes of data, enhancing their ability to detect fraud and uncover hidden patterns. Staying current with technology, he advised, is now a non-negotiable part of the professional journey.
• It’s Never Too Late to Begin
  Addressing a common concern among students, Mr. Anthony shared stories of individuals who began their CA journey at later stages in life and still achieved remarkable success. He reassured attendees that age should never be a barrier to ambition, especially in a profession where maturity and experience often translate into greater professional value.

Practical Advice for CA Aspirants
Beyond motivational insights, Mr. Anthony also offered concrete guidance on how to strengthen one’s training and practical exposure.

• Begin Practical Training Early
  Mr. Anthony emphasized the importance of joining a local audit firm during one’s training period. Practical exposure to real-world accounting and audit engagements, he noted, provides a complementary layer of learning that textbooks alone cannot offer.
• Cultivating Fraud Detection Skills
  In the context of forensic investigations, he discussed the necessity of professional skepticism. He introduced students to several tools and investigative techniques used in fraud detection, reminding them that financial fraud often hides in plain sight—and it's the auditor’s job to uncover it.
•  Navigating an Unpredictable Business World
  Mr. Anthony touched on the volatile nature of modern business environments, stressing the importance of risk management and the strategic role accountants play in forecasting, protecting assets, and ensuring business continuity.
•  The Importance of Mock Exams
  A simple yet powerful tool for exam success, he said, is regular practice with past examination papers under timed conditions. This allows students to identify weak areas, improve speed and accuracy, and become more comfortable with exam formats.
•  Balancing Work and Study
  He also advised students to strike a balance between study commitments and practical training, especially during audit engagements. Exposure to diverse industries during training fosters adaptability and strengthens post-qualification readiness.
• Staying Ahead in the Digital Age
  Finally, Mr. Anthony emphasized the need to stay updated with digital advancements in accounting, particularly those impacting forensic work. From automated analysis to AI-driven fraud detection tools, the future belongs to professionals who can blend traditional knowledge with technological fluency.

•  A Memorable and Impactful Experience
  The session concluded with an engaging Q&A segment, where students posed questions on career transitions, specializations within accounting, and selecting the right training environment. Mr. Anthony responded thoughtfully, sharing personal experiences and providing actionable advice.

 
Conclusion: A Roadmap for the Future
This session with Mr. Samira Anthony was more than an academic exercise. It was a masterclass in professional readiness. Through a thoughtful blend of technical depth and motivational guidance, he presented a clear and compelling vision of what it means to be a modern Chartered Accountant.

For the students who attended, the experience was not just informative—it was transformational. With renewed confidence and clarity, they are now better equipped to navigate their journey on the road to CA.

Artilce by : Daham Weerasinghe (Event Host)