From CA to MBA: Veronique Meyer’s Bold Next Step with Milpark

From CA to MBA: Veronique Meyer’s Bold Next Step with Milpark

Many aspiring chartered accountants face serious setbacks. For Veronique Meyer, failing the SAICA board exams multiple times shattered her confidence and led her to question whether she had what it took to succeed.

When her original PGDA/CTA expired - meaning she’d need to redo it before reattempting the board exams - she was stuck. Her only options were full-time study or returning to an institution that hadn’t worked previously.

That changed when Milpark launched its SAICA-accredited PGDA in 2019 - a flexible, fully online path to CA(SA) designed for working professionals. Veronique enrolled - and thrived. Today, as a qualified CA(SA) and head of a prestigious trust’s family office, Veronique has taken a bold next step: Milpark’s AMBA-accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Explore:  Milpark Business School

The Emotional Toll of CA Failure

Veronique’s early struggle wasn’t just academic - it was deeply personal. “It’s hard to keep showing up when you feel like you’re chasing something you’ll never reach.”

Despite a well-established accounting career, repeated exam failures had left her doubting her worth. “I had the job and the technical skills, but I wondered: Am I good enough? Did I get here because of my ability, or another factor, like loyalty or luck?”

Read More: Overcoming Failure in Chartered Accounting

A Second Chance and a New Direction

Applying to Milpark’s Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA/CTA) marked a turning point. “I was fragile, but Milpark recognised a discrepancy between my experience and results. They reassured me this time would be different.”

Veronique quickly embraced online learning. “The live classes and interactive sessions blew me away. You aren’t just a number - the lecturers know you and your name.”

She found the PGDA course material was fully aligned with SAICA’s technical competencies and real-world application. “I felt prepared to pass the exam and succeed as a CA.”

Qualifying renewed her confidence. “I stopped trying to prove myself and could now ask questions, instead of having to pretend that I knew everything.” 

Choosing an MBA: Growth Beyond Accounting

Although CA(SA) is one of the most sought-after professional qualifications in South Africa, Veronique realised she aspired to more. “I wanted to develop personally and professionally, especially in presenting, negotiating and managing conflict. These areas aren’t part of my day-to-day work but are integral to today’s business world.”

The internationally recognised, AMBA-accredited MBA aligned perfectly with Veronique’s goals, with an emphasis on people and ethical leadership. “Fewer than 10 of the MBA students are accountants; the rest come from mining, marketing, engineering, agriculture and academia. We meet regularly to discuss readings and share perspectives, and it’s mind-blowing to hear so many diverse points of view.”

It’s also allowed her to tackle impostor syndrome - with help. “Every MBA student is assigned a coach. I’m working with my coach on self-doubt. I’m very grateful for this added layer of support.”

Veronique invests around 40 hours a month in her MBA studies. “I’m learning, I’m growing, and I finally feel seen.”

Explore how Milpark’s AMBA-accredited MBA is developing ethical, human-centred leaders: Developing Leaders For A Digital World.

Insights from Veronique’s CA to MBA Journey

Veronique’s story demonstrates that success isn’t always linear. “I thought failure meant I wasn’t good enough. It turns out, I’m more than capable - I just needed the right environment.”

“Milpark is an institution that stands with you. They don’t just care about your marks, they care about you as a person, and the impact you’ll have on those around you.”

She encourages others to lean into growth - even when it’s uncomfortable. “I’ve had to stretch myself - speaking up in group work, learning to present and negotiate. But that’s where the transformation happens. You don’t need to be confident to begin – you need to be committed to growing.”

Learn About:  Success Beyond Numbers

Key Takeaways

  •      Confidence is built, not bestowed. Qualifications matter, but reflection and support are the key to self-belief.
  • Failure doesn’t define your future. The right learning environment can reignite your potential.
  • Online learning can be life changing. With Milpark’s structure and support, Veronique has found the tools to thrive.
  • Growth happens outside your comfort zone. From public speaking to group work, Veronique is developing leadership skills that go far beyond accounting.
  • You are not alone. Milpark’s coaching and community remind you that growth doesn’t have to be a solo journey.

Ready to grow beyond accounting?

Whether you’re rebuilding your confidence or prepared to step into leadership, Milpark’s flexible, fully online learning can help. Explore Milpark’s AMBA-accredited MBA and SAICA-accredited PGDA today and discover the leader in you.

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