Meet Sakshi
I have worked at Inspire for 6 years and it has been the best years of my career thus far. This company has such compassionate roots and Inspire’s mission to give back to the less fortunate is truly alluring. I can’t help but be compelled to be a part of the bigger picture and know that my contributions to this business will directly lead to life changing moments.
I find the most fulfilment in being able to provide genuine advice and support to young families with growing businesses. The impact I have has been life changing for my clients and there’s nothing more rewarding than being able to provide value to others lives.
Outside of Inspire
I treasure the time I spend with my family & friends and take every opportunity I get to spend with them.
On any given weekend, you can often find me relaxing and recuperating, indulging in Netflix at home. One of my pastime passions is exploring different foods & restaurants of all kinds. Some may say I’m a ‘Foodie’ – rest assured, that is an understatement.
What is your favourite thing about working at Inspire?
Definitely the close-knit team culture that we have as well as how we’ve managed to protect and progress that culture, it’s been truly extraordinary. Everyone here has congruent visions and goals; that is helping our clients grow and thrive. We are all travelling along the same wavelength, driven with motivation. The atmosphere is electric and the smiles are contagious, how can you not fall in love with the culture?
How did you get interested in accounting and business?
Accounting actually runs in the family. Both of my parents have a background in Accounting and as I was unsure of what I wanted to pursue, I gave it a go and 10 years later I’m still loving it.
What is one of the biggest impacts you’ve made?
Creating a legacy of generational wealth for our clients is what we believe in. Many of our clients have so much profit but don’t know how to grow. I’ve had the privilege of working with one of our clients that was able to tax-efficiently pull money out of the business and gain 2 investment properties; for our client, it feels almost as if it came out of thin air.
What are some books you recommend?
I was recommended ‘The Leveraged business’ by Fabienne Frederikson by a client and I’ve found it to be really insightful in understanding business quality of life.
Which Sustainable Development Goal(s) do you choose and why?
I’d have to choose quality education and gender equality. I feel strongly about these two goals as there are young girls in many nations that don’t get the opportunity to receive a quality education.
Tax Agent ID & Badge
Outside of Inspire
When I’m not at work, I lead a very active lifestyle, spending time at the gym and practicing martial arts. Staying connected with friends and family is important to me, and I’m an avid reader who loves getting lost in a great book.
My interest in accounting began through conversations about complex tax issues, particularly around capital gains and the emerging world of cryptocurrency. Back then, the regulations were unclear, and navigating compliance was challenging. Through these discussions, I found myself helping friends make sense of these topics, and that’s when I realized I could combine my passion for finance with my career in accounting.
How did you get interested in Accounting?
Growing up in a family involved in business, I was always drawn to the financial side. I often helped my dad and brother with the finance aspects of their businesses and spent time with them during meetings with accountants. Those early experiences sparked my interest in the field, and eventually, I decided to pursue accounting as a profession.
I was especially intrigued by the complexities of tax regulations, including the challenges around capital gains and cryptocurrency. My curiosity turned into a commitment to helping others navigate these tricky areas, and that’s what led me to merge my personal interests with my career.
3 Things you love about Inspire
- The culture at Inspire stands out—it’s open, relaxed, and different from traditional accounting firms. There’s no strict business attire; instead, the environment is modern and flexible.
- The team at Inspire is young and forward-thinking. The way we approach work, especially with newer systems and technology, reflects a fresh perspective on the accounting industry. It’s a big reason I was drawn to this firm.
- The location is perfect—it’s not too far from the city but not in the middle of it either, which makes commuting easy. The office is also new and refreshing, making it a great place to work every day.
What have you learned so far working at Inspire?
Working at Inspire has introduced me to a wide range of new technology and software that have significantly improved efficiency. While learning to navigate these tools can sometimes feel overwhelming, they ultimately enhance the level of service we provide to our clients.
Fun fact about you that we don’t know
I was a goalkeeper for the junior national team in Iran! Alongside my accounting career, I’m also a personal trainer and passionate about martial arts.
What are some books/Podcast/movie TV shows you recommend?
I highly recommend the Property Podcasts by the Rask Group for anyone interested in property, shares, and investments. For personal growth, The New Earth and The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle are excellent reads that dive into spirituality and psychology.
Which Sustainable Development Goal(s) do you choose and why?
I believe Good Health and Well-being are essential for a fulfilling life, and it’s troubling that many don’t have access to these basic necessities. Quality education is another key factor—it lays the foundation for success and progress in any society.
Finally, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions are vital for a just and fair society. Having come from a background where these are often lacking, I understand how crucial they are for the well-being of communities.
Meet Nikki
What I absolutely love about the company is the culture—it’s the first thing that stands out. Everyone is incredibly friendly and always ready to lend a helping hand. The team as a whole is filled with positivity and support, constantly checking in to make sure you’re doing okay.
One thing I really appreciate is the flexibility they offer. If I have a doctor’s appointment or need to leave early, I just need to ask and as long as I make up the time, it’s no problem at all. Sakshi, my manager, is understanding and gives the go-ahead. Having that flexibility at work is fantastic because there are times when you really need it.
At inspire, everyone, it’s not just about being colleagues; it’s like being part of a close-knit group of friends. The camaraderie is amazing. They also organize some great activities like cultural dinners, breakfast get-togethers, and even a retreat at the end of the financial year. It’s so much fun to participate in these events and strengthens the bond within the team.
Why did you join Inspire?
Honestly, I conducted extensive research and from what I gathered on social media and other platforms, it appears that this company has a strong and inclusive culture. It’s clear that employees are valued as more than just numbers here. This sentiment was reinforced during my interview. Sakshi who is my manager actually provided me with a detailed strategy plan for my personal development at work. The plan outlined specific levels, duties, and skills I need to focus on in order to progress to the next level. It also highlighted areas for improvement and suggested ways to enhance my abilities. This level of guidance and support is something I haven’t encountered in other firms I interviewed with. Needless to say, it greatly appealed to me and drew me towards this company.
What have you learned so far working at Inspire?
In my first week, I’ve been getting the hang of working with Karbon, a new software for me. While I’m familiar with working with various apps, Karbon was uncharted territory. I’m also adjusting to the Mac and iOS environment, which has been quite amusing. In addition to Karbon, I’ve been using Slack, which is a straightforward communication tool, but still new to me.
In terms of work, I’ve accomplished quite a bit this week. I learned how to prepare trust minutes, dividend statements, and even had negotiations during an ATO call. I also had the opportunity to attend tax planning meetings and assist Sakshi in wrapping them up. It’s been quite a packed week, and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved.
On my first day, Austin kindly gave me a tour of the office. Even though I arrived just five minutes early in the morning, he showed me around the upstairs and downstairs areas and introduced me to everyone. The people here are a fantastic group, and being a part of this team has been truly amazing. I’m really enjoying my time here. It’s worth mentioning that many of my colleagues have dogs, so I suggested, “why not having a pet day at the office while still getting our work done?” It would be a lot of fun!
Outside of Inspire
Outside of Inspire, my family and friends play a significant role in my life, bringing me joy and fulfillment. Typically, I allocate Saturdays to enjoy the company of my friends, while Sundays are dedicated to Family Day. Living alone, I cherish the moments spent with my family and make it a priority to see them at least once a week; it’s an essential part of my well-being.
Furthermore, I kickstart my mornings by hitting the gym, engaging in a satisfying workout that energizes me and promotes a positive mindset. But perhaps one of the greatest sources of happiness for me is dogs. Though I am unable to have one currently due to the pet restrictions in my current residence, I love spending time with my sister’s two beautiful dogs. Every Sunday, I eagerly visit her place, taking the opportunity to walk, bathe, and care for them. Their presence brings joy to my life.
How did you get interested in accounting?
When I was growing up, my dad, who was a business man, had a major impact on me. I used to watch him handle all the accounting side for his own business, and it fascinated me. Seeing how skilled and committed he was got me super interested in accounting, so I decided to make it my career. My dad’s influence still motivates me as I make my way in the accounting world. He’s my role model, no doubt about it!
Fun fact about Nikki
Back when I was a student, I had the opportunity to work as a swimming teacher. It was an enjoyable experience that allowed me to both save money and indulge in something I truly love. Interacting with children was a big part of the job, and I enjoyed the time spent teaching them how to swim. Being a swimming teacher for kids was a fun gig during that period of my life. So, that’s a fun fact about me!
What are some books/podcasts/movies/documentaries you recommend?
‘m a big fan of Oprah Winfrey’s books. I’ve read every single one she has written. As for podcasts, there’s this amazing one that doesn’t have the most appealing name, but trust me, it’s fantastic. It’s called “Do You ******* Mind?” hosted by a girl based in Brisbane. She covers a wide range of topics and offers insightful discussions about life. I find it really captivating. These two are the ones I primarily listen to and read. They definitely top my favorites list.
Which Sustainable Development Goal(s) do you choose and why?
If I were to prioritize the Sustainable Development Goals, I would place Zero Hunger as my top priority, followed by goal Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. It deeply saddens me to see that many countries are still grappling with these issues. Everyone deserves access to food and shelter as these are fundamental needs for human well-being. It’s crucial that we address these challenges to ensure a better quality of life for all.
How did you get interested in Accounting?
I’ve always been fascinated by financial services and investments. A few years back, I stumbled into the world of crypto. It all began with late-night research, listening to podcasts, and diving into conversations on social media about investments and the emerging crypto landscape.
Accountants often popped up in these discussions, especially around the tricky tax implications of capital gains. Back then, the laws around crypto were murky at best, and figuring out the best compliance strategies was like navigating uncharted waters.
This journey wasn’t just about satisfying my curiosity; it also involved helping friends make sense of the same challenges. It was in those moments that I realised I could merge my passions for these areas with my profession.
Why did you join Inspire?
I was looking for a new job because my last position just wasn’t cutting it. Sometimes, you hit a point where there’s no room for growth, and you feel like you’re stuck on a treadmill. I needed something more, a place where I could challenge myself and find opportunities for career development and mentorship.
While researching, I found Inspire’s website and read through the team bios. It was clear that people here genuinely enjoyed their work, and the positive reviews spoke volumes about the company culture. I also listened to a few of Ben’s podcasts and learned he was writing books. Seeing a business owner balance building a company with pursuing other passions showed a deep love for what he does.
In a place like that, you can grow in ways that aren’t possible in a company where people just clock in and out. Being around someone who truly loves their work can be incredibly motivating.
That’s why I applied here. I got lucky because the position wasn’t even advertised. I had to send Ben a few messages before he got back to me—he was busy—but eventually, we scheduled an interview, and now, here I am.
What have you learned so far working at Inspire?
The way Inspire organises everything is quite impressive. Using Karbon to centralise everything and streamline the workflow is a new experience for me. I’m learning something new every day and getting more familiar with the system.
Fun fact about you that we don’t know
When I was still young, free, and without too many responsibilities, I had the incredible opportunity to travel the entire Western Australian coast by car, from Perth to Darwin, over the course of nearly a month. It was an unforgettable journey where I saw places I’d never seen before and experienced the unique wilderness that is hard to find elsewhere.
One of the most memorable days of the trip was when I stopped in a small coastal town. It happened to be during the humpback whale migration period. While having lunch in a local café, I discovered that you could book a tour to swim with the whales. Without hesitation, I booked the tour and soon found myself in the water with these magnificent creatures. Having those huge whales swimming just a few meters away from us was both scary and exciting at the same time. Even though years have passed, I still have a vivid memory of that incredible experience.
What are some books/Podcast/movie TV shows you recommend?
The book I’m reading now is quite interesting and relevant to the work we do and the industry we’re in. It’s called Die With Zero, written by Bill Perkins. He’s a trader, businessman, and poker player. I used to play a lot of poker myself, just as a hobby.
The book makes you think about money differently. It challenges you to consider how to use your wealth and how you want to spend your money to optimise your life. Perkins recommends spending money on experiences at the right time in your life rather than saving everything for retirement. His perspective is that by the time you’re 65, you might not be able to do the things you could enjoy earlier in life.
Another book is The Untethered Soul by Michael Alan Singer. It holds a special place for me because it was the first book I read in Australia. I have good memories associated with it because I was feeling particularly good when I finished it. It was a period in my life when things were going well.
The book is more spiritual, focusing on inner growth and awareness. I have fond memories of reading it, partly because of the book itself, and partly because I was going through a new and enriching experience at the time. It’s a good memory, and there’s a lot of valuable insights in it that I think are beneficial for everyone.
Which Sustainable Development Goal(s) do you choose and why?
I’d say Good health and Well-being is the first one. Everything starts from there. If you’re not healthy, nothing else really matters. So I believe that being healthy should be a priority for everyone.
The second is Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Innovation is really important. It’s closely tied to our quality of life. Without innovation in medicine or any other field, we wouldn’t be able to improve our lives.
Accountants often popped up in these discussions, especially around the tricky tax implications of capital gains. Back then, the laws around crypto were murky at best, and figuring out the best compliance strategies was like navigating uncharted waters.
This journey wasn’t just about satisfying my curiosity; it also involved helping friends make sense of the same challenges. It was in those moments that I realised I could merge my passions for these areas with my profession.
Meet Patrick
I joined Inspire in January 2023. I work as an Undergraduate Accountant for Team Sakshi.
The most rewarding aspect of my job is collaborating with my colleagues. They are incredibly supportive, and I continuously learn from their expertise. They demonstrate a strong eagerness to teach me, fostering an environment of growth and development.
Outside of Inspire
During weekends, my usual routine involves playing soccer with a few friends and enjoying their company while unwinding with a few drinks.
How did you get interested in accounting?
The field of Accounting captivated me due to the influence of my mother, who worked as an Accountant, and my older brother, who also pursued a career in accounting.
Growing up, our family dinner conversations often revolved around accounting and related topics. Their discussions ignited my curiosity and instilled a desire to delve deeper into the subject. At the age of 14, I felt a sense of expertise or knowledge beyond that of an average teenager, which further motivated me to explore and learn more about the field.
What is your favourite thing about working at inspire?
What I love most about my experience at Inspire is the genuinely kind and friendly nature of everyone. I truly enjoy coming to work and engaging in conversations with my colleagues. The level of closeness among the team surpasses my expectations compared to other accounting firms I have heard about.
What is one of the biggest impacts you’ve made?
I believe that my most significant contributions so far have been in fulfilling the essential tasks of junior accounting work. Sakshi, in particular, has been incredibly kind and caring. She shows genuine concern not only for our professional progress but also for our personal lives. I consider her to be the best mentor I’ve had, surpassing my own expectations.
What are some books/podcast/movies/series you recommend?
Lately, I’ve been engrossed in a captivating series called Blackbird on Apple TV. The show revolves around a man who is suspected of being a murderer and another individual who voluntarily enters jail to coax a confession out of him. The storyline was quite gripping, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching it.
Which Sustainable Development Goal(s) do you choose and why?
I am passionate about climate action due to my love for the outdoors and activities like hiking mountains and visiting parks.
Additionally, as a university student, I value the importance of quality education. It plays a significant role in shaping my knowledge and future endeavours.
Meet Quennie
I have been working at Inspire since August 2022. As a Client Service Coordinator, I am responsible for assisting both Team Sakshi and Team Karan at Inspire.
My daily tasks involve organising and tagging emails for the assigned accountants, responding to clients’ emails regarding document requests, managing files by ensuring they are saved in the appropriate folders, and signing documents electronically for both the accountants and clients. Additionally, I am responsible for preparing bank kits and bound packs for company constitutions and trust deeds, onboarding clients into our portal, updating company details, sending out email reminders and payslips, and facilitating payment plans as necessary.
My experience at Inspire is truly remarkable. Each day has been a thrilling roller coaster ride, filled with challenges and rewards. Working here has taught me a great deal about accounting processes and concepts, and I have grown immensely as a professional. The supportive and amicable work environment at Inspire has made my journey all the more enriching and enjoyable.
What I find most satisfying about my job is being able to assist our clients with their needs, no matter how big or small. I also appreciate how user-friendly the tools we use are, and that my colleagues and the accountants are always willing to lend a hand when needed. It’s rewarding to know that we have a supportive team that helps each other out at the end of the day.
Outside of Inspire
In my free time outside of Inspire, I enjoy taking road trips with my friends to the mountains and taking a break with a cup of coffee. Additionally, I cherish cooking with my family every weekend to connect and catch up, playing online games, and ending my weekends by having a drink to prepare for a fresh week at work.
How did you get interested in client services?
Since I was young, I have always had a desire to help others. My upbringing, as well as my education, instilled in me a sense of hospitality and service to others. This calling to serve has only grown stronger since I started working at Inspire. My time here has allowed me to improve my skills and serve as a liaison between clients and accountants, which has deepened my interest in helping others.
What is your favorite thing about working at inspire?
One thing I love most about working at Inspire is the amazing colleagues I work with. Communication is always clear and instructions are given with proper expectations, which makes it easier to learn and improve my skills. The Inspire family is incredibly welcoming, and the work environment is approachable and friendly.
What is one of the biggest impacts you’ve made?
One of the major contributions I’ve made to Inspire so far is by reducing the workload of our accountants, particularly those on Teams Sakshi and Karan. As a Client Service Coordinator, I can provide proactive support to help foster client loyalty and satisfaction.
What are some books you recommend?
As a fan of adventure stories, I highly recommend the Hunger Games Series. The plot is intense and full of thrilling moments that challenge the characters’ survival instincts. Moreover, it sheds light on their way of life, making it a thought-provoking read.
Which Sustainable Development Goal(s) do you choose and why?
Disciplining ourselves, nurturing our relationships with others, and striving for justice and peace are crucial in eliminating discrimination, gender inequality, and creating a better society. Equally important is empowering young minds to become resilient advocates for their rights and to preserve and expand educational opportunities for all.
Meet Tina
Since starting at Inspire in May of 2022, I’ve been challenged in new ways and feel like I’ve been making the right moves. The team is enthusiastic about my work and actively supports my growth, which is a huge motivator for me.
My primary responsibilities at Inspire include organising client files, preparing documents for DocuSign, and assisting with client requests. While I’m currently focused on gaining more experience, I’m excited to continue growing with the company and see where this journey takes me.
Finding myself in a new work environment has been a challenging but rewarding experience. Fortunately, Inspire offers a diverse and supportive workplace culture with excellent benefits. I feel lucky to have found a healthy working environment where everyone supports one another.
Whether I’m contributing to the company or working on my personal growth, my efforts are always recognized and appreciated. Seeing my contributions alleviate some of the workload for Gulshan and Tabbie is particularly fulfilling, as it means my work is making a tangible difference.
Outside of Inspire
I spend a lot of time outside of Inspire exploring Asian foods that interest me and comfort me after a long day at work. You can usually find me having a peaceful moment in a local park near my workplace. There’s nothing more fulfilling than good food and fresh air during weekdays. You can find me in my comfy bed watching Netflix or listening to Spotify on weekends.
How did you get interested in Client Service?
My professional background is primarily in Human Resource Management, which involves handling paperwork for the company much like client services. As a result, transitioning to my role at Inspire was relatively seamless. However, my true passion lies in assisting the team, and I find that to be the most fulfilling aspect of my work.
What is your favourite thing about working at inspire?
What I love most about working at Inspire is the opportunity to collaborate with the amazing employees here. The entire team gets together once a week to acknowledge and appreciate everyone’s contributions to our projects. During these meetings, we have the chance to catch up with one another and discuss our varied jobs, interests, and goals. Seeing the positive results of our collective efforts is incredibly gratifying. I also enjoy interacting with my colleagues and learning more about them personally.
What is one of the biggest impacts you’ve made?
Currently, my most significant contribution has been assisting Team Gulshan with tasks that I am capable of managing, allowing them to concentrate on more significant projects. My experience here has been a valuable learning opportunity, providing me with fresh perspectives on various topics. It has also given me insight into the dynamics of the team, allowing me to determine if I am a good fit.
What are some books/movies/podcasts you recommend?
The Twilight books I’ve read have been a source of inspiration for me. Reading them has provided me with a deeper understanding of how people can have vastly different perspectives and opinions on various topics. I find it fascinating to explore these differences through the lens of the Twilight series and believe that it is an excellent way to connect with other readers in the area who share similar interests. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed both the books and the movie adaptations.
Which Sustainable Development Goal(s) do you choose and why?
I have chosen to support two causes: Zero Hunger and Peace and Justice. Hunger has been a prevalent issue in society for years, and I believe that providing food is one of the best ways to prevent suffering and promote healthy living for families. This is especially critical for abandoned children who have no means of feeding themselves. I also believe that conserving food is crucial in addressing the problem of hunger.
In addition, I am passionate about promoting Peace and Justice Strong Institutions as a means of advancing equality. We need strong leaders who can bring stability and fairness to society, and just laws to protect people and reduce oppression and inequality. A safe and just world will enable individuals to thrive and contribute to society.
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