Chapter Leader Profile: Tania Fabiani, CFE
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Tania Fabiani, CFE
Born in Argentina, Tania Fabiani, CFE found her way to the United Arab Emirates after growing up in Brazil and then studying and working in the U.S.
Fabiani has been president of the UAE Chapter for the past four years. Under her leadership, this week the chapter hosted their first-ever multi-day conference in Dubai that attracted more than 250 attendees from all parts of the Middle East and North Africa.
Why did you decide to enter the anti-fraud field?
I started work in one of the Big Four firms’ forensic and litigation practices. Initially, my finance background was better suited for the litigation cases and valuations for damages for law suits. Later I was invited to work a few corruption and money laundering cases in jurisdictions where my language skills were required. I finally realized my passion for the finding and combating fraud. I was raised in emerging nations where financial crimes were prominent in the society and culture, and it has been a good thing to join the fight against fraud and corruption.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born to Italian and Spanish parents in Argentina. At 6 months of age, I moved to Brazil where I was raised until the age of 17. I then moved to the United States where I studied and worked for the next 13 years until moving to the Middle East.
What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?
A set of events that have combined to create a life of achievements from building a successful career in the challenging, fascinating and never dull field of financial crimes, developing long and lasting relationships on all fronts, and having grown one of the most important things in my life: my family.
How has the CFE benefited your career?
Not only has it been a reliable source to find information, updates and training, but also a credential that recognizes the best people in our field of fraud and forensics.
What are the benefits of serving as a chapter leader?
The transfer of knowledge between regions, especially between our chapter in the United Arab Emirates and the other chapters in the region like Saudi Arabia, is a great benefit. Also it’s great being able to help and support the upcoming chapters around the region and share our experiences, success stories and challenges.
What goals would you like to help the chapter accomplish?
I would like to continue to grow and promote the anti-fraud and corruption educational agenda in order to change cultural aspects in the region. Also, promoting the development and mentoring of people in the anti-fraud and corruption fields.
Do you have any advice for other chapter leaders?
Be resilient, even when things get tough. Always look at the bigger picture – the purpose and mission of ACFE. We are volunteers but to be in this position is very rewarding in the long term.
What are your favorite activities and hobbies outside of work?
I can’t say enough about my favorite activities and hobbies as I enjoy so many things. I love fashion, sports from yoga to tennis, Formula 1 racing, soccer, world travel and time with my husband and family.
What is your personal motto? Does it have any special meaning?
“Our responsibilities to society are greater than just a job.” As a leader, you are able to make changes and educate governments, organizations and individuals to make an impact on society. That alone has a very special meaning!
