GISA Spring Election 2024: Candidate Profiles – Treasurer (1)

In conversation with Abubacarr Kanagie, MINT 1st year.

Q. Why do you think you are the best candidate for the role of Treasurer?

My candidacy for Treasurer is uniquely supported by my comprehensive background in finance and leadership roles in both academic and professional settings. As the Co-founder and Chief Financial Officer of Kabboumb Academy, I’ve been responsible for setting up and managing the financial frameworks that support educational initiatives. This role, coupled with my hands-on experience as a treasurer in many previous organizations, has provided me with a deep understanding of financial accountability and strategic fiscal management, making me well-suited to uphold the financial integrity of GISA.

Q. How will your experiences as a student at the Institute shape your approach to the role of the Treasurer?

Studying Sustainable Trade and Finance has not only prepared me to manage finances with a focus on sustainability but has also ingrained a strategic approach to handling resources in a manner that supports long-term objectives. This educational foundation will guide my decisions, ensuring that GISA’s financial management reflects both immediate student needs and future aspirations.

Q. What other experience do you have that you believe qualifies you for the role of Treasurer?

My qualifications for the role of Treasurer extend significantly beyond traditional academic and informal settings, drawing from extensive hands-on experience in organizational financial management. I have served as treasurer for multiple associations, where I was responsible for managing and overseeing financial operations, crafting budgets, and ensuring financial compliance. This experience has provided me with practical knowledge and skills in financial governance and accountability, which are directly applicable to the financial management needs of GISA.

Additionally, I have extensive experience with a variety of accounting software and data analytical tools. This technical expertise includes advanced proficiency in platforms such as QuickBooks, SAP, and Oracle, as well as analytical tools like Tableau and Microsoft Excel for financial modelling and forecasting. These skills enable me to not only manage and forecast budgets with high accuracy but also to provide insightful data-driven decision-making capabilities for GISA.

Q. If elected, what would be your primary goal as Treasurer?

My primary goal is to significantly enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of GISA’s financial management. To achieve this, I plan to implement custom accounting software specifically designed for GISA’s unique needs. This software will revolutionize our bookkeeping, financial tracking, and reconciliation processes. Key features will include real-time financial data visualization, automated error checking for entries to reduce discrepancies, and seamless integration with existing financial systems to ensure continuity and security.

The software will enable precise budget tracking and forecasting capabilities, allowing us to plan more effectively for future expenditures and investments. This will enhance our ability to manage funds and allow for proactive financial decision-making based on comprehensive data analytics.

 I aim to establish a series of regular training sessions for GISA budget controllers for various initiatives on budget preparations and the use of this new software. This initiative will empower members by providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to understand and participate actively in financial governance. By doing so, we ensure that the organization’s financial management is not only transparent but also inclusive, fostering a culture of accountability where every member feels responsible and equipped to oversee our collective resources. This strategic integration of cutting-edge technology and community engagement will ensure that GISA’s finances are managed with unmatched precision and accessibility, aligning with our goals of fostering a financially informed and engaged student body.

Q. If chosen as Treasurer, how would you decide what events or projects to spend the organization’s money on? How would you make sure members agree with how the money is used?

Decision-making under my tenure as Treasurer will be both collaborative and data-driven, reflecting a commitment to align financial decisions with the true needs and priorities of the student body. Leveraging the experiences and best practices I’ve developed over the years as a financial expert, I will establish a transparent process for budget allocation that directly involves the GISA members.

Process and Tools:

Participatory Budgeting: I plan to implement participatory budgeting sessions where members can propose and vote on projects directly. This democratic approach not only fosters a sense of community but also ensures that funds are allocated to initiatives that have broad support among students.

Strategic Alignment with GISA Goals: Every proposed expenditure will be evaluated against GISA’s strategic goals to ensure that spending contributes to our long-term objectives. This alignment will be crucial for maintaining focus on activities that enhance student life and learning experiences.

Regular Financial Updates: I will institute regular financial reporting during GISA meetings, using the new software to present understandable financial reports. This will keep all members informed and involved in ongoing financial decisions.

Open Forums and Feedback Mechanisms: To further ensure that all voices are heard, I will organize open forums where members can express their opinions and suggestions on financial matters. Additionally, feedback mechanisms through digital platforms will be available for those who prefer to contribute anonymously or remotely.

Q. How would you ensure accurate and up-to-date record keeping of the organization’s financial transactions and account balances? What processes would you put in place to maintain organized documentation?

Drawing from my experiences, I will implement a comprehensive documentation system that uses the latest financial software to maintain real-time, accurate records. Regular audits, enhanced by digital tracking, will ensure that our records are always up-to-date and reflect true financial positions, fostering trust and clarity within GISA.

Voting for the 2024 Spring Semester GISA Elections will open on Friday, May 3rd, at 17:00, when students will receive the online voting form, and remain open for 48 hours until Sunday, May 5th, at 17:00, with the results announced on May 6th at 10:00. The winner will be declared by a plurality of votes, requiring the winner to have the largest vote share among the other candidates, official abstentions, and write in candidates. Best wishes to all the candidates from the TGP Editorial Board!

Photo provided by Abubacarr Kanagie