Chartering Life with Yunus Essop

Karabo Molokomme • July 21, 2023

Chartering Life with Yunus Essop

Alumnus Student Name: Yunus Essop

Graduating year: 2010

Crawford International School: Crawford College Pretoria

Meet Yunus Essop - a remarkable individual who embarked on a journey of academic and professional excellence in the field of chartered accountancy. With a passion for numbers, analytical thinking, and a drive for success, Yunus pursued his studies in chartered accountancy with unwavering dedication. His journey serves as an inspiration to those who aspire to excel in the world of finance and accounting, emphasising the importance of knowledge, perseverance and strong work ethic in achieving professional success.

1. Where did you study Yunus?

I studied Accounting Sciences at the University of Pretoria, where I completed a three-year BCom Accounting degree, followed by a one-year BCom Accounting Honours degree and Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA).

2.What did you do after University?

Eager to put my knowledge and expertise into practise, after University I joined a renowned accounting firm in South Africa to complete my three years of articles and became eligible to register as a CA(SA).

3. Today?

I am a Senior Manager in assurance at a ‘Big Four’ firm in South Africa. In this role, I have the privilege of mentoring and coaching aspiring Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)) and other young professionals during their studies or articles to become qualified.

4.Inspiring others! That’s fantastic. What’s in your career are you most proud of.

I’m proud that I am also an accredited SAICA Assessor and a Trusted Business Advisor, continuously upskilling in the areas of digitization in the business world and changes to the assurance landscape. Additionally, I had the opportunity to do a three-and-a-half-month secondment with the same Big Four firm in their Brussels, Belgium office in 2019, which was a transformative experience both professionally and personally.

5.Why did you choose the field of accounting and auditing as your career path?

I chose to pursue a career in accounting and auditing because I wanted to be a leader in the business world and have the opportunity to travel and explore various industries. The CA(SA) program provided me with career flexibility, global mobility and the chance to fulfil my career aspirations. I’m driven by success and hard work, and I thrive in a rapidly growing and innovative environment. Being a CA(SA) allows me to develop myself professionally and personally while making a meaningful impact in the business world.

6.What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing a career in accounting and auditing?

If you are looking for a field that is innovative, challenging, rapidly growing and highly sought after globally, becoming a CA(SA) is an excellent choice. It opens numerous doors within the business and global landscape.

7. How did Crawford International Pretoria prepare you to achieve your goals after school?

Crawford International played a significant role in shaping who I am today. The school empowered me to be a unique individual, and instilled confidence in me. I learned valuable skills such as effective learning strategies, time management, goal setting and stress management which have been instrumental in my success. Crawford taught me the importance of hard work and prepared me to face challenges with resilience.

8. If you could give advice to your 17-year-old self, what would it be?

I would advise my 17-year-old self not to worry too much about the small things and to enjoy life in the present moment. Believing in oneself and recognising personal potential to achieve great things is essential. Working hard, pursuing passions and finding joy in life’s journey while progressing and succeeding should be the balanced focus.

9. Speaking about balance, what are your hobbies outside of work?

Outside of work, I have a passion for extreme sports such as skydiving and bungee jumping. I also prioritise keeping fit and exercising regularly but sometime I indulge in watching movies and series. I have a love for travel and enjoy exploring new places during my holidays. Spending quality time with family and friends is also important to me and part of my work life balance. I have been happily married for five years to my wife Kulsum, whom I actually met at my firm where she was my senior on one of my first projects. We have a beautiful three-year-old son named Ayaan, who has brought immense joy into our lives. We are also excitedly expanding our family with a baby girl.

10. What does the future hold for Yunus?

In the future, I envision traveling the world with my family and embracing all the opportunities life has to offer. I aspire to continue progressing in my career, climbing the corporate ladder and becoming a partner at my firm. Additionally, I want to be a leader in my industry, mentoring and developing aspiring CA(SA)s and other professionals. Furthermore, I hope to contribute to providing educational opportunities for less fortunate individuals, as I believe that helping our youth succeed is vital for South Africa’s brighter future.

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Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Parents as Educational Partners

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By Neo Moshoeu • May 23, 2025

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