Babalwa Dlabati, Business Accountant
Business Accountant
Current Experience:
Business Accountant in Practice at BD Tech & Accounting · Full-time Jun 2024 - Present · (1 yr 2 mos)
Past Experiences:
R&O Team Manager | Accountants Division at Sage Feb 2022 - Jun 2024 · (2 yrs 5 mos)
Onboarding Manager I Strategic Partnerships at Sage Feb 2018 - June 2024 (4 yrs)
Strategic Account Manager at Sage May 2016 - Jan 2019 (2 yrs 9 mos)
Priority Support Consultant | Pastel Accounting Sage · Full-time Nov 2009 - Feb 2012 · (2 yrs 4 mos)
Technical Support Consultant | Pastel Accounting at Sage · Full-time Jan 1988 - Oct 1990 · (2 yrs 10 mos)
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Business Administration
CIMA
BCom Cost and Management Accounting
Country of Residence:
South Africa
LinkedIn Profile:
Babalwa Dlabati didn’t just “start an accounting firm.” She built a movement, one client, one budget, one cloud migration at a time. From tech trainer to trusted advisor, she’s made it her mission to shift how SMEs see compliance: not as a cost, but as a competitive edge. She’s a night owl with a strategic brain, a content creator with a calculator, and a relentless advocate for small business growth. Her story is every bit raw, real, and relevant, and it’s just getting started.
What time do you usually wake up on weekends?
07:00 AM
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
Night Owl
How do you spend the first hour of your day?
I start my day by meditating, listening to a podcast, and drinking water to get grounded and focused.
What sparked your interest in accounting or finance?
My interest in accounting grew from a love for structure and solving problems. I’ve always been drawn to working with numbers, but what really pulled me in was realizing how much proper financial management influences the success of a business.
While working in software tech, I trained and supported small businesses and saw up close how often they struggled with their finances and day-to-day operations. That experience pushed me to explore accounting more seriously.
I started doing part-time accounting and payroll work alongside experienced professionals while still working full-time. Over time, I saw the real difference I could make by helping SMEs improve their systems, stay compliant, and build a stronger foundation for growth.
Can you share some career highlights and defining moments as an accountant for SMEs?
Throughout my career working with SMEs, one of the most rewarding parts has been helping business owners move beyond just tracking numbers to actually understanding and using their finances to make better decisions. Teaching entrepreneurs how to budget, set targets, and work with measurable goals, skills I picked up during my time in corporate, has been a highlight. Watching those tools lead to real growth in small businesses has been incredibly fulfilling.
A standout moment was working with an engineering firm that was struggling with inefficient financial processes. I introduced cloud accounting software, which helped simplify their systems, cut down on errors, and gave them clearer insight into their finances. That experience really confirmed for me how much of a difference the right tools and structure can make.
Now, as I shift into content creation, I’m looking forward to sharing what I’ve learned with a wider audience, and helping even more small businesses run efficiently and profitably.
How do you build strong relationships with your clients?
For me, building strong client relationships is about more than just handling the numbers, it’s about trust, collaboration, and making a real impact on their business.
I make it a point to understand each client’s industry, goals, and day-to-day challenges. That context helps me give advice that’s relevant and practical.
A lot of small business owners aren’t confident when it comes to finances. I don’t just deliver reports, I walk them through what the numbers mean, helping them understand cash flow, budgets, and how to set and track goals.
I’m always looking for ways to improve systems. For example, I once worked with an engineering firm whose financial processes were all over the place. By introducing cloud accounting software, we cut down on errors and made their decision-making much more efficient.
I value transparency and make time for regular check-ins. My clients always know where things stand and that I’m available when they need support.
At the heart of it, I genuinely care about their success. That’s what creates strong, long-term partnerships.
What are some future goals for your firm?
My vision for the future of my firm is about more than offering accounting services, it's about helping small businesses grow and thrive through practical support, education, and advocacy.
I want to use content to reach more entrepreneurs, breaking down complex financial topics and making them easier to understand. Whether it’s compliance, digital tools, or strategy, I aim to provide useful, accessible guidance to business owners who might not have traditional support.
Too often, compliance is seen as just a box to tick. I want to shift that mindset. When done right, compliance lays the groundwork for growth. I help my clients see it not as a chore, but as a tool to strengthen and stabilise their businesses.
I’m passionate about helping SMEs embrace tools like cloud accounting, automation, and AI to improve efficiency and decision-making. I’ve seen the difference it makes, and I want to lead more businesses through that transformation.
Long term, I want to be known as a go-to voice for SMEs in South Africa. That means partnering with banks, development agencies, and policymakers to advocate for real support. I want to build a community where small business owners feel empowered, informed, and supported.
There’s still a long way to go, but I’m excited about where it’s headed, and committed to making a real impact along the way.
What’s next on your professional journey?
What’s next for me is about stepping beyond day-to-day accounting and focusing on broader impact, through education, advocacy, and digital transformation in the SME space.
I’m working on creating content that makes financial literacy more approachable for small business owners. I’ll be sharing practical advice on compliance, financial planning, and using digital tools to make confident, informed decisions.
I want to keep helping SMEs move away from manual systems and adopt cloud-based, automated, and AI-powered solutions. I've seen how the right tech can completely shift how a business operates, and I’m excited to continue leading more clients through that process.
I’m aiming to collaborate with banks, development agencies, and policymakers to help shape the future of small business in South Africa. My goal is to become a go-to voice for SMEs, offering real, actionable insights to support their growth.
I’m also working toward building a space, online or in-person, where entrepreneurs can connect, learn, and get support. Whether through workshops, digital content, or strategic partnerships, I want to create an environment that helps small business owners feel empowered and supported.
This next chapter is all about making a wider impact, sharing knowledge, and helping businesses grow with confidence.
Share your strategies for maintaining balance between personal and professional life.
Balancing work and personal life as a business owner isn’t always easy, but I’ve found that being intentional with my time makes all the difference.
When I’m at work, I’m fully in it. I set clear priorities for the day and cut out distractions so I’m being productive, not just busy.
I try to avoid multitasking because it tends to slow things down and affect the quality of my work. Whether I’m reviewing a client’s financials or planning content, I focus on giving that task my full attention.
I make it a point to separate work from personal time. When I’m with family or friends, I try to be fully there, not thinking about emails or to-do lists.
Golf is my way to unwind and clear my head. It helps me stay active and gives me space to reset, which in turn helps me show up better in every area of my life.
For me, balance isn’t about trying to do everything, it’s about setting clear boundaries, being present in the moment, and making space for the things that matter most.
What do you enjoy when you’re off the clock?
When I’m off the clock, I focus on the things that keep me grounded and bring me joy.
Exercise is a big part of my routine. I enjoy going to the gym and swimming, not just to stay fit, but because it helps me reset and clear my mind.
Being present with my daughter is a top priority. Whether we’re playing, talking, or just doing something simple together, I make sure she has my full attention.
I really value time with the people closest to me. Whether it’s meaningful conversations or just sharing a laugh, those connections matter a lot.
Outside of work, I try to stay present, active, and connected to the people and moments that really count.
How do you contribute to the development of others in your field?
I’m a strong believer in lifting others as I grow, and I’m committed to sharing what I’ve learned with both fellow accountants and small business owners.
My goal is to build a space where entrepreneurs and accounting professionals can connect, share knowledge, and grow together. Whether it’s through online conversations, workshops, or future partnerships, I want to be a go-to resource for those looking to learn and improve.
For me, contributing to the profession goes beyond the day-to-day work, it’s about teaching, supporting, and leaving a positive impact on the people around me.
Are you involved in mentorship or local business initiatives?
At the moment, I’m not formally involved in mentorship programs or local business initiatives, but my passion for supporting small businesses and accounting professionals drives me to share valuable insights through my content.
As my journey evolves, I look forward to exploring opportunities to engage more directly in mentorship and local business initiatives
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to start their own accounting practice?
If you’re thinking about starting your own accounting practice, my advice is straightforward: begin where you are, focus on delivering real value, and make the most of technology.
Build Relationships and Network: Your early clients will often come through your network. Focus on providing excellent service, nurture those connections, and encourage referrals, word of mouth is key in this field.
Prioritize Compliance and Efficiency: Treat your practice like a business from the start. Make sure you’re properly registered, stay on top of compliance, and use cloud accounting and automation tools to keep things running smoothly and save time.
Charge What You’re Worth: Don’t underprice just to win clients. Set fees that reflect your skills and the value you bring, rather than trying to be the cheapest option.
Create a Strong Online Presence: Many clients find accountants online. Share useful content, establish yourself as an expert, and show how you help businesses succeed. This will attract the right clients to you.
Be Patient and Keep Learning: Growing your practice takes time. Stay updated on industry changes, keep sharpening your skills, and be ready to adapt. Success isn’t just about crunching numbers, it’s about solving problems and making an impact.
To sum it up: start small, think big, and stay consistent.
“Do the work, and the results will follow.
This reminds me that success isn’t about quick wins, it’s about consistency, discipline, and trusting the process. Whether in business, personal growth, or content creation, I believe that showing up, putting in the effort, and staying focused always leads to progress.
What drives me is knowing that every step I take today is shaping the future I’m building.”
Share your favorite leadership lesson as a firm owner.
One of the most important leadership lessons I’ve learned as a firm owner is to lead with clarity and efficiency.
Running a business means making decisions that affect both clients and day-to-day operations. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings, whether it’s with clients, partners, or through my content. When everyone knows what to expect, things run much more smoothly.
Efficiency is just as important. Streamlining processes, using technology, and setting clear, measurable goals (something I picked up in corporate) helps keep my business organized and ready to grow.
Leading by example is key. If I want my clients to take financial health and compliance seriously, I need to demonstrate those values in my own practice.
Leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself, it’s about setting a clear direction and making sure everything moves in line with that vision. Stay focused and organized, and success will follow.
What’s something surprising about you that isn’t in your professional bio?
I love golf!
Most people know me as an accountant and content creator, but outside of work, I enjoy hitting the golf course. It’s more than just a hobby, it’s my way to unwind, challenge myself, and stay active. Plus, it’s a great way to network and meet like-minded professionals
If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be?
Speed. 24 Hours is not enough!
What’s your go-to strategy for staying productive during tax season or busy periods? Any tips for keeping energy levels up?
Plan and Prioritize: I break down tasks into manageable deadlines and focus on the most important ones first. I also set aside blocks of time for deep work to avoid last-minute stress.
Use Technology: Cloud accounting and automation tools help me work more efficiently. Having good systems in place cuts down on stress and saves time.
Avoid Multitasking: I concentrate on one task at a time instead of trying to do everything at once. This helps me work faster and with fewer mistakes.
Keep Energy Up: Exercise is essential. I make sure to fit in gym sessions or swimming to stay energized and focused. Staying hydrated and taking short breaks also helps me stay sharp throughout the day.
If you could relive one day from your career, which day would it be and why?
If I could relive one day from my career, it would be the day I decided to commit fully to running my own accounting practice.
That day was filled with a mix of excitement, nerves, and determination. More than anything, it marked the moment I took complete ownership of my career and future.
I was stepping into the unknown, but confident in my abilities and ready to take on the challenge.
What makes Babalwa different isn’t just her cloud savvy or her ability to simplify VAT for a time-starved SME owner. It’s her vision: to turn compliance into confidence, and paperwork into power. She’s not here to tick boxes, she’s here to build better businesses, mentor the next generation, and take the pain out of practice.
Want to charge more, stress less, and stand out like Babalwa?
Join CIBA and we’ll show you how to turn your accounting story into a practice that scales.
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