Women have long held the reins in education, nurturing minds, and shaping futures. From our very first steps in learning, it's the guiding hands of mothers that lay the foundation. They aren't just teachers of subjects; they're architects of dreams. Today, let's cast the spotlight on those exceptional women, the true pillars of educational leadership. Among these elites shines Anu Agrawal, spanning over 25 years of experience in the finance domain. Anu's journey goes beyond the accolades as a distinguished CA and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Australia. Her experience has forged her into an inspiration for aspirants aiming to crack competitive finance exams.

The path to success is often thought to be smooth for those born into well-doing families. However, Anu Agrawal's childhood took an unexpected turn after grade 10 when her family faced financial setbacks, leaving her to navigate life independently. At the tender age of 16, she embarked on tutoring to fund her CA course. Her narrative unveils the reality that challenges, no matter how daunting, can be conquered with true willpower. “If there is a will to achieve, even the most difficult path becomes a trail of strength. Our efforts are enough to attain success”, she remarks.

As you read through Anu Agrawal's journey, it's not just a biographical account; it's a call to action for women to break barriers and achieve. It's a reminder that the professional path may be challenging, but with effort and determination, one can surmount any obstacle.

What led you to venture into the field of finance?

I went to one of Kanpur's most esteemed schools, where our principal had a unique approach to education. During my Senior Secondary School days, one of my teachers introduced the students to unconventional career paths in commerce and science, showed us options beyond usual routes like medicine or engineering.

I switched from ISC science to commerce, taking the CA foundation exam in its inaugural batch. It was during my articleship that I truly began to appreciate the profession. This growing passion inspired me to clear my examinations on my first attempt. Although I wasn’t an academically high achiever; I was able to make it happen due to my genuine interest in the profession. Education, to me, is profoundly personal. Today's students often follow societal expectations or peer influences, but true success comes from identifying what brings us joy and what matches our interests.

What led your foray into education?

My upbringing in a household with four sisters and a brother – each thriving independently across India and abroad, speaks volumes about the importance of education for independence instilled within my family. In fact, I earned my first pay at 16 by teaching.

After qualifying as a chartered accountant, I worked as a junior partner in a company and spent nearly five years at a CA firm, gaining diverse experience in audits, taxation, project management, and more. During this time, I got an opportunity to address students at DPS R K Puram. It was while spending about a month at DPS that I realized my talent in public speaking. I became a guest faculty at various places, including Delhi College of Electronics. In 2009, I started 'Anu Agarwal Classes' at the request of students. Starting with one student, I soon had over 30 in a batch across four batches, initially focusing on AAC to transform education into revelation. Expanding to grades 11 and 12, I continued this journey and furthered to international courses. By then, I had around 250 students and a team of 10 to 12 permanent and visiting faculties. Transitioning from Indian to international courses (ACCA, CMA, CFA), I joined hands with FPA Edutech.

Why FPA? Tell us more about your brainchild as well.

Despite offers from top organizations to join as partners, I chose FPA because of our shared values centered around students. We continued the junior section under the AAC brand, focusing solely on professional courses and corporate training under FPA. Presently, we offer IUH (International University Hub), a unique two-year program where students study in India and spend the third year abroad in countries like England, Australia, New Zealand, and Dubai, aiming for international and multicultural exposure. Our goal is to equip students not just with a graduation degree but also with professional qualifications, giving them an edge in the corporate world.

How would you stay updated on the industry's evolution?

Continuous learning, to me, is paramount. I completed CPA Australia at this age because I know that it is imperative to stay abreast of industry shifts. Learning is not about a certificate; it's a lifelong journey. As a chartered accountant, we need to understand that AI is a tool for progress, not a replacement. FPA Edutech integrates technology and emphasizes adapting to technological advancements. Staying updated is important, traditional methods won't suffice. FPA Edutech ensures students are tech-savvy and prepared for a rapidly evolving future.

Any advice for women in the domain?

In the realm of finance, particularly in chartered accountancy, women constitute 40 percent of qualifiers. Yet, despite their contribution to corporate roles and entrepreneurship, many fall short of realizing and attaining their optimal success. The imposed limits, such as avoiding meetings after 7 PM, often hinder their progress.

Women need to be clear about their priorities, and understand that the path to success demands their commitment just like for men or anyone else. Women can bring unique perspectives to the boardroom and I advise women not to confine their beliefs but to authentically be themselves.

Anu Agrawal, Director, FPA Edutech

Anu's passion for continuous learning and adaptability in the evolving financial landscape is evident through her recent achievement of qualifying as a CPA in 2023.