Featuring Sandile Nkala, one of Curtin’s graduates who has managed to secure a position at one of the Big Four audit firms; KPMG. She is one of the University’s most active students right from her first day and has used her energy and positive attitude to obtain this opportunity even before she graduated.
Here’s what she says about the entire experience.
“My journey with Curtin University Dubai was truly transformative and played a defining role in shaping the professional I am today. The university provided more than academic knowledge. It created an environment where students are encouraged to explore opportunities, develop leadership skills, and gain real world experience.
During my time at Curtin, I completed three internships that allowed me to build practical skills and confidence in professional environments. Thanks to the Careers team, I worked as a booking intern at Bareface, a careers intern at Transnational Academic Group, and a business projects intern at Hunter Foods. These experiences helped me develop critical soft skills such as communication, adaptability, collaboration, and problem solving. These skills continue to guide me throughout my career.
One of the most pivotal moments in my journey came through the annual university Career Fair, where I secured a placement with KPMG. What began as an opportunity through the university grew into a fulfilling career. Today, I am proud to serve as a Senior Audit Supervisor and have been with the firm for more than five years.
Curtin also empowered me to grow as a leader. Serving as Student Council President allowed me to represent the student body, collaborate with peers and faculty, and contribute to initiatives that enriched the student experience. I also participated in several volunteering opportunities, which helped me appreciate the importance of community engagement and giving back.
These experiences laid the foundation for my continued involvement in the global accounting profession. I later had the honour of serving as Chair of the Middle East Student Committee at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), completing my two-years term in January. I am currently a member of the Young Leaders Collective at the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), where I collaborate with emerging professionals from around the world on initiatives shaping the future of the profession.
Looking back, Curtin University Dubai played a significant role in opening doors and building the foundation for my career. The university’s focus on industry exposure, leadership opportunities, and student development gave me the confidence to pursue ambitious goals and make meaningful contributions to my field. It truly set me on a path of continuous growth, leadership, and global impact.”
– Sandile Nkala
Designed to bridge the gap between education and industry, Curtin Dubai’s Career Fair connects future graduates with recruiters from leading organisations across the UAE. Supported by Curtin Dubai’s Careers Hub, the initiative provides students from foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs with opportunities to network, interview, and explore career pathways with industry professionals.
Some of the organisations that participated in the Career Fair included KPMG, PwC Academy, Marriott International, and Oliv.
