u/Top_Raccoon2683

Hi everyone,

I’m a BS Accountancy graduate currently reviewing for the CPALE, but at the same time I’ve become deeply interested in software development and building a FinTech SaaS startup.

My long-term goal is to create software solutions related to accounting, finance, automation, and business operations since I believe my accounting background can be an advantage in the FinTech industry. However, I honestly feel lost on where to begin.

Right now, I’m considering enrolling in a Computer Science or programming-related course while continuing my CPA journey. I’m also trying to figure out whether I should:

• Continue pursuing the CPA title first
• Fully shift into tech/software development
• Or combine both fields and build expertise in FinTech

I have startup ideas already, but my technical skills are still beginner-level. I’m willing to learn programming, systems design, databases, cloud, and anything necessary to build SaaS products.

For people who transitioned from accounting/business to tech:

• How did you start?
• What programming languages or tech stack should I learn first for FinTech SaaS?
• Is enrolling in a CS course worth it, or can self-study be enough?
• How valuable is the CPA license in the tech/startup world?
• What roadmap would you recommend for someone in my position?

I would really appreciate honest advice, career insights, and learning recommendations. Thank you!

Im in Accounting and Finance background. Looking for Software developer na maging partner ko to build my Start up SaaS FinTech App.

What are your challenges in hiring remote workers? What do u prefer local or international workers?

Me:
Fresh Grad
24 yo
Will be working as Accountant in Big 4
Minimalist Living
Tidy
Neat

I took up BS Accountancy from 1st year until 4th year, 1st semester — one semester away nalang sana from graduating and taking the CPALE. But I was forced to shift to BS Management Accounting because of our university’s retention policy requiring a 1.75 maintaining grade in all subjects plus annual retention exams.

During our final years, the university suddenly implemented a new OBE curriculum/approach even though many faculty members were not yet fully trained or prepared for it. Students were heavily affected. Marami sa amin ang bumagsak sa maintaining grade and were forced to shift programs. We protested and raised our concerns to the administration, but our appeals were denied.

I eventually graduated BS Management Accounting, but I still pursued my dream of becoming a CPA by enrolling in another school to complete my BSA degree. It took another year. At the same time, I enrolled in 3 different review centers and even deferred one CPALE schedule just to fully prepare myself.

And thankfully, it paid off.

I became a CPALE Topnotcher. (Won’t disclose the year and exact rank for privacy reasons 😅)

What’s ironic is that the same university that forced me out of the BSA program suddenly started flaunting my achievement on their social media pages, website, and even placed tarpaulins around the campus — all without my consent.

They invited me to their testimonial dinner and asked me to give a speech. I never responded to their emails and never attended. The administration even offered me a ₱50,000 cash reward, which I also declined.

No amount of money can compensate for the trauma, depression, and self-doubt I experienced when I was forced out of the program I fought so hard for.

Fast forward to today: I’m now a Senior Accountant in Dubai handling UK clients, earning around PHP 4XX,XXX monthly.

Life has a funny way of working out. Sometimes the people who reject you become the same people who later want to claim your success.

What they did to me delayed my journey, damaged my mental health, and nearly made me give up on my dream. But one thing I learned is this: rejection does not define your destiny. Sometimes, the people and institutions that fail you become the very reason you push harder and prove to yourself what you are truly capable of.

I was removed from the program, forced to shift courses, and made to feel that I was no longer good enough to become a CPA. Yet despite all of that, I still found my way back. I rebuilt myself quietly, endured the pressure, sacrificed years, faced failures and self-doubt, and eventually conquered the CPALE as a topnotcher.

Success became more meaningful because I earned it the hard way.

To everyone who feels left behind, rejected, delayed, or underestimated: your current situation is not the end of your story. Keep going. Your setbacks today may become the foundation of your greatest comeback tomorrow. Sometimes, the best revenge is not anger — it is success, peace, and proving that no system, policy, or person can permanently stop someone who refuses to quit.

Whats the benefit of registering to BIR as a freelancer when they’ll plunder the taxes anyway?

Im interested in SaaS but I have no code idea.
Accounting and finance background

Hi everyone,

I’m a Philippines-based accounting professional with 5 years of experience in General Accounting and Payroll Accounting, currently exploring remote opportunities with UK-based firms or businesses.

My background includes:
• General bookkeeping and accounting support
• Payroll processing and reconciliation
• Accounts payable and receivable
• Financial reporting support
• Administrative and back-office accounting tasks

I’ve worked in remote environments and am comfortable collaborating across different time zones.

I’d also appreciate any advice from professionals here on the best platforms, agencies, or pathways for securing UK remote accounting work from overseas. Thanks!

Lets meet and chill. In IAO until May 3 only. Dm