When Nikka Vhea Diaz first set foot in Bulacan State University, her goal was clear—become a Certified Public Accountant. She enrolled in the BS Accountancy program, ready to chase the dream she had held since high school. But when she didn’t qualify for the Level 2 qualifying exam, her path suddenly shifted.
What felt like failure at the time became a turning point. Redirected to the Bachelor of Science in Accounting Information System (BSAIS), Nikka wrestled with self-doubt. “Should I continue this path, or is this a sign to stop?” she asked herself. Instead of walking away, she leaned into the challenge. The new program opened her eyes to a broader perspective, one that blended accounting with technology. That shift, coupled with her pursuit of NIAT certification, rebuilt her confidence and gave her the validation she needed.
“I realized setbacks are not dead ends. They can be steppingstones if you choose to learn from them,” she said in an interview with Financial Adviser PH.
Pivotal Moments That Shaped Her Path
Making peace with her redirection was just the beginning. Passing the NIAT exam became one of Nikka’s most defining moments. It proved to her—and to potential employers—that she had the skills and discipline to excel in accounting.
Soon after, she landed a role at PSMBFI as an Audit Examiner. It was her first taste of professional life, and it quickly became a game-changer. She was entrusted with real audit procedures, handling responsibilities that stretched her abilities. Each successful task reinforced that she was exactly where she needed to be.
Nikka also decided to go further in her studies. Enrolling in a Master of Arts in Business Administration at Bulacan State University Graduate School signaled her commitment not just to technical expertise, but to leadership and management. It’s a milestone she sees as preparation for bigger responsibilities ahead.
Growth in the Accounting Industry
Her role has transformed significantly over time. At first, she was focused on the technical side—preparing reports, reconciling accounts, ensuring accuracy. But working in audit expanded her perspective.
“At PSMBFI, I learned that accounting isn’t just about numbers. It’s about uncovering risks, ensuring compliance, and safeguarding trust,” she shared.
That shift—from being a doer to being a thinker—reshaped her career. Today, Nikka doesn’t just crunch numbers. She interprets results, identifies gaps, and provides insights that guide organizations toward better decisions. She’s also stepped into mentorship, guiding colleagues and proving that growth includes helping others rise as well.
Overcoming Early Challenges
The hardest part of Nikka’s journey wasn’t the technical learning—it was regaining her confidence after not qualifying for Accountancy. The weight of that early setback stayed with her. On top of that, she faced the typical challenges of a young professional: adapting to new systems, handling tight deadlines, and meeting high expectations.
Her solution? Refusing to give up. She asked questions, sought advice from mentors, and invested extra time into learning tools and processes. Most importantly, she used the setback as fuel rather than a limitation.
“Challenges are opportunities to grow,” she said. “That mindset made all the difference.”
Values and Leadership
Integrity became the core of her professional values. Numbers hold power, and for Nikka, reporting them truthfully is non-negotiable. Her setbacks also shaped her leadership style—she leads with empathy and mentorship.
“I know what it feels like to doubt yourself, so I make sure to support others,” she explained. For her, true leadership is about lifting others up, being transparent, and communicating in ways that make information useful and clear.
Passion, Purpose, and Fulfillment
What keeps Nikka passionate is the sense of responsibility her work carries. As an Audit Examiner, she understands how financial processes affect not only her company but also the people it serves. Each report and audit represents credibility, trust, and accountability.
“The most fulfilling part of being an accounting technician is seeing the impact of your work,” she said. “It’s about proving to yourself that you’re capable, no matter the setbacks.”
Continuous Growth and the Role of NIAT
Nikka is committed to lifelong learning. Alongside her graduate studies, she has earned multiple certifications, including Certified Accounting Technician Level 1 – Certified Bookkeeper and a Six Sigma White Belt. She also plans to pursue higher levels of the CAT program.
Her NIAT certification, however, was a milestone that marked her transition from doubt to confidence. It validated her skills, gave her credibility, and opened doors she never thought possible.
“Don’t see certification as just another credential,” she advised. “See it as an investment in yourself. NIAT doesn’t just prepare you for jobs—it prepares you for growth.”
Looking Ahead
From questioning her place in accounting to thriving in audit and leadership, Nikka’s story is proof that redirection can still lead to success. She may not have followed the exact path she once envisioned, but by embracing change and pursuing continuous learning, she built a career defined by resilience and purpose.
Her journey serves as a reminder: setbacks don’t have to stop you—they can set you on a new path toward something even greater.
