Father’s Day is not just about celebrating fathers but also about acknowledging the bonds and memories that families create together. For the Bootha family, this day is a reminder of the love, wisdom, and joy that Professor Akbar Bootha has imparted to his children. Whether it’s through shared meals, travel adventures, or humorous stories about bedtime accounting tales, the Bootha family embodies the spirit of togetherness and mutual support. As they celebrate this special day, they honour the man who has been their guide, mentor, and constant source of inspiration.
A serendipitous journey into academia
Professor Akbar Bootha’s foray into academia was a happy accident that turned into a lifelong passion. Initially unsure of his path, he soon found joy and fulfilment in teaching. ‘I found it exceptionally fulfilling to teach the next generation,’ he recalls with a smile. Many of his students came from disadvantaged backgrounds and helping them achieve their dreams was profoundly rewarding. ‘There are several of them who have subsequently reached out to thank me for my contribution,’ he says, his voice filled with pride and emotion. ‘That feeling is indescribable and makes it all worth it.’
Guiding principles for aspiring accountants
Professor Bootha’s advice to aspiring accountants is grounded in hard work and honesty. ‘Nothing in life worth having comes without hard work and sacrifice,’ he gently advises. He emphasises the importance of integrity, both in professional and personal life. ‘As accountants, we’re often financial custodians requiring a high level of trust, but beyond that, we need to be ethical leaders.’
Balancing academic and family life
Balancing a demanding career with family life was no small feat for Professor Bootha, but with the support of his loving wife and children, he managed to integrate both worlds seamlessly. ‘I was fortunate to have a very understanding and supportive wife and children,’ he says warmly. During his busiest times, such as setting up the business school for the University of Bophutaswana or serving as deputy vice chancellor of the University of North West (now part of North West University), his family would often join him at work. ‘We still joke about my kids being at university long before they could enrol,’ he laughs. These moments of blending work with family time created cherished memories and strengthened their bond.
Instilling core values
Professor Bootha has always prioritised instilling strong values in his children. ‘Work harder than most and remain ethical and honest in all your dealings,’ he says earnestly. He also encourages them to care for those around them. ‘Acknowledge the privileges you have and try to share them with those less fortunate,’ he advises, emphasising that kindness and respect cost nothing.
Cherished family traditions
For the Bootha family, spending time together, whether traveling or enjoying meals, is a source of joy. ‘We love traveling together and socialising over meals, whether at home or somewhere else,’ he shares, his eyes lighting up with fond memories.
Words of wisdom for fellow fathers
On Father’s Day, Professor Bootha offers heartfelt advice to other fathers: ‘Teach your children the things you wish you had learned earlier in life.’ He believes it’s more important to impart wisdom and values than to give material possessions.
Voices of the next generation: Saffiyah, Farzeen, and Shaah Bootha
Saffiyah Bootha
Inspired by her father, Saffiyah always aspired to be a CA. Now an audit partner at PwC, she finds fulfilment in the people element of her role. Her father’s unwavering integrity is what she admires most. She fondly recalls a childhood memory where her father’s ethical stance during a boat ride taught her a lasting lesson about honesty. For Father’s Day, she humorously notes that they might add to his collection of pyjamas and slippers.
Farzeen Bootha
Farzeen’s career choice was influenced by her parents, especially her mother’s gentle encouragement. Now a partner at PwC, she values engaging with both staff and clients and learning from them. She shares the same boat ride story, emphasising her father’s integrity. Farzeen believes in the importance of interpersonal skills especially for young CA’s entering the workforce and values the close-knit family support that has been pivotal in her success. “People often ask us if we only discuss IFRS and accounting when we get together, we dismiss this as not true; we sometimes discuss auditing and tax as well” she jokes
Shaah Bootha
Shaah, the youngest Bootha, followed in his father’s and siblings’ footsteps, partly due to family influence and his own interest in finance. Now a CA, he enjoys the collaborative nature of his work. A family joke recounts a trip to Turkey where his father’s wallet was pick pocketed from his mother’s handbag, a mishap they now laugh about joking that CA’s shouldn’t trust other people with their money. Shaah credits his family’s support for his achievements and values mutual respect and maturity in maintaining professional boundaries.
Conclusion
Professor Akbar Bootha’s legacy extends beyond his distinguished career to the remarkable paths of his children. This Father’s Day, we celebrate the values of hard work, integrity, and familial support that he has instilled in his family. His story is a testament to the profound impact a dedicated and loving father can have on shaping successful and principled individuals.
Author
Sharon Manzini, Diploma In Journalism, Intern at SAICA
