Tell us about yourself. Can you describe your current role and how it fits into your overall career goals?

My name is Afolabi Tosin Francisca, and I am a graduate of Bowen University, where I studied Business Administration. Currently, I work as a Fraud Analyst with gomoney. In this role, I am responsible for detecting and preventing fraudulent activities, which aligns with my career goals of specializing in financial security and risk management. This position allows me to apply my knowledge and skills in business administration while contributing to the integrity and safety of financial transactions, paving the way for my long-term career aspirations in the field.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how has your vision for your career evolved over time?

I was inspired to pursue a career in fraud analysis while at University. My interest in financial systems and their security grew during this time. Initially, I started my career as a Security Operations Center (SoC) Analyst, where I gained valuable experience in monitoring transactions and identifying suspicious activities. This role deepened my understanding of the importance of protecting financial systems from fraud. Over time, my vision for my career has evolved. My initial broad interest in Business Administration has become a focused passion for financial security and risk management. Working as a Fraud Analyst at gomoney has allowed me to further specialize in this field, aligning perfectly with my career goals of becoming an expert in preventing financial fraud and ensuring the integrity of financial transactions.

What are the key skills and experiences you hope to gain in the next few years to further your professional growth?

My goal for the next few years is to advance professionally by enhancing my expertise in advanced fraud detection techniques, data analysis, and cybersecurity. I aim to deepen my understanding of regulatory compliance and risk management, while also developing stronger communication, leadership, and project management skills. These enhancements will enable me to remain at the forefront of financial security and effectively address the evolving challenges in fraud prevention.

Can you share a significant milestone or achievement in your career that you are particularly proud of? How did it shape your career path?

Achieving certification in fraud examination has been a significant milestone in my career. It validated my expertise in detecting, investigating, and preventing fraud, enhancing my credibility. This certification equipped me with essential skills for ensuring the integrity of financial transactions and deepened my commitment to continuous learning in fraud examination. It has empowered me to contribute effectively to organizations by mitigating risks and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. Overall, obtaining this certification has greatly boosted my career and motivates me to excel in fraud prevention.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your long-term career objectives amidst daily work challenges?

To remain focused on my long-term career goals amidst daily challenges, I prioritize continuous learning in fields such as fraud detection and cybersecurity. This ongoing education not only keeps me engaged but also ensures I stay updated with industry trends and advancements. Viewing challenges as opportunities for growth helps me maintain motivation while seeking mentorship and celebrating milestones reinforces my commitment to achieving my career objectives.

What are some personal or professional goals you have set for yourself in the next five years, and what steps are you taking to achieve them?

In the next five years, my goal is to enhance my skills in fraud detection and cybersecurity. I aim to grow as a leader and improve my ability to manage projects by taking on challenging roles and seeking opportunities for development. Balancing work and personal life is essential, so I'll prioritize my well-being and spend quality time with loved ones. I understand the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends, which I'll achieve through ongoing education and networking.

At gomoney, how do you handle fraud cases and ensure instances of fraud are low as a fintech?

At gomoney, safeguarding our customers against fraud is paramount, and we employ a multi-faceted approach to ensure the highest level of security. We begin by implementing robust security measures such as passcode authentication for account access and verifying identities during onboarding to guarantee secure and authenticated transactions.

Additionally, customers benefit from real-time transaction alerts via push notifications and login notifications via email, empowering them to swiftly detect and report any unauthorized activities. Continuous improvement is central to our strategy; we stay ahead of emerging threats by regularly updating our fraud prevention strategies and technologies. This proactive approach ensures that gomoney remains at the forefront of safeguarding against fraud, providing our customers with a secure banking experience they can trust.

How do you approach continuous learning and skill development in your career? What courses and skill development have you engaged in the past 6 months?

Continuous learning and skill development are essential for my career advancement. I actively seek opportunities to stay updated through online courses, workshops, and industry seminars.

Over the past 6 months, I have focused on enhancing my expertise in fraud detection and prevention, which has been particularly important since becoming a Certified Fraud Examiner. I have enrolled in courses that cover advanced fraud analytics, cybersecurity fundamentals, and updates in regulatory compliance. Each learning opportunity strengthens my ability to effectively manage risks and maintain high standards in fraud prevention.

Can you talk about a mentor or role model who has significantly influenced your career growth? What lessons did you learn from them?

One female role model who has deeply inspired me is Oprah Winfrey. Her journey from a talk show host to a media mogul and philanthropist is incredibly inspiring. Oprah's ability to uplift others through storytelling and her dedication to social causes have had a profound impact on me.

From Oprah Winfrey, I've learned the importance of resilience and authenticity in achieving personal success. Her advocacy for education, women's rights, and personal growth has motivated me to pursue my own aspirations with dedication and empathy. Oprah's leadership and philanthropy continue to motivate me to make a positive impact in my community.

Overall, Oprah Winfrey's influence has not only shaped my values but also strengthened my belief in the power of empathy, determination, and using one's influence to create positive change.

How do you balance your personal life and career ambitions to ensure sustainable growth and fulfillment? Are there any specific resources or strategies you find particularly effective?

Balancing my personal life with career ambitions for sustainable growth and fulfillment is all about smart scheduling. I ensure I dedicate time to career development, like attending webinars and staying informed about industry trends. Equally crucial, I make sure to indulge in activities that rejuvenate me, such as losing myself in music, which always uplifts and energizes me. Moreover, I cherish moments with my family, setting aside special times to connect and stay grounded. It’s this blend that keeps me motivated and makes every day fulfilling.

What advice would you give to colleagues or newcomers in your field who are looking to develop a clear vision for their career growth?

For colleagues or newcomers in our field, developing a clear vision for career growth starts with self-reflection and goal setting. Begin by identifying your strengths, interests, and areas of passion within fraud analysis. Set specific, achievable goals that align with your long-term aspirations. Stay updated with industry trends and developments through continuous learning, such as attending workshops and seminars. Networking with experienced professionals can provide valuable insights and mentorship opportunities to help navigate challenges and opportunities in your career.

Lastly, remain adaptable to changes in the field. Embrace new technologies and methodologies that enhance fraud detection and prevention strategies. By focusing on continuous improvement and staying connected within the industry, you can forge a path toward long-term success and fulfillment in fraud analysis.