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.
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