In June 2024, the NI Audit Office was delighted to welcome sixth-year student Aliza to our Office for a week. Aliza was a participant in the 2024 SistersIn Mentoring Programme, which the NIAO had been supporting for the second consecutive year.
The Programme provides students with longer-term exposure to female leaders serving as inspirational role models. Aliza’s mentor over the last year has been NI’s Comptroller and Auditor General Dorinnia Carville. This culminated with Aliza spending a week shadowing Dorinnia and other NIAO staff, both at our University Street headquarters and at Stormont, and getting insight into different business areas across the Office.
We caught up with Aliza, and she provided these reflections on her time with us:
"I joined the company for a week of work shadowing in June, where my time was split between the office and Parliament Buildings. During my time at the office, I received the chance to work under audit managers, senior auditors and trainee accountants.
Engaging with people of a range of different roles gave me a chance to observe each aspect of the work done at Northern Ireland audit office and provided me with valuable insight into the work force. Reading through reports, reviews and working on audits allowed me to see the real-world application of accounting and auditing procedures. The hands-on experience I gained at the office was invaluable in shaping my career aspirations and left me with an interest in possibly pursuing a future in auditing and accounting.
Additionally, during my visit to parliament buildings, I had the privilege of attending a Public Accounts Committee meeting and engaging with several politicians. This experience provided me with a unique opportunity to acquire valuable insights into the workings of the government and the intersection of policy making with financial oversight. The exposure to the political environment not only broadened my understanding of government and politics but also allowed me to look into career paths that involve public service and policy development. Witnessing firsthand how decisions are made and the impact they have on society was a truly enlightening experience.
My week of work experience at the Northern Ireland Auditing Office was truly eye-opening. It gave me valuable insights into the working world and presented me with fantastic opportunities that I am incredibly grateful for. I believe not many lower sixth students get to have such enriching experiences."
On behalf of the NI Audit Office staff, we’d like to thank Aliza for spending time with us, and wish her continued success in her studies and beyond!