Chapter Leader Profile: Vanessa C. Ngalle Mbondjo, CFE, CIA
/Vanessa C. Ngalle Mbondjo, CFE, CIA, is the founder and president of the newly formed ACFE Cameroon Chapter. Born in Switzerland, raised partly in France and then mainly in Cameroon, Vanessa now works as a manager for Ernst & Young.
Why did you decide to enter the anti-fraud field?
After more than 10 years as an external and internal auditor, I felt it natural to strengthen my knowledge in fraud detection and prevention. I passed my CFE Exam in 2010 and I’ve been working in forensics since 2012.
What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?
Setting up the internal audit function for a multinational company in Cameroon and Chad.
What are your favorite activities and hobbies outside of work?
Quality time with my beloved. I love traveling and discovering new places with a lot of history. My Favorite place is Cape Town, South Africa. I would love to visit India and Asia.
How has the CFE benefited your career?
I was recognized worldwide as a fraud expert and recruited at EY to set up the forensics department in French-speaking, Sub-Saharan Africa.
What are the benefits of serving as a chapter leader?
Being the focal point for local and international fraud expert communities and sharing experiences.
What goals would you like to help the chapter accomplish?
We want to be recognized as the leaders in the fight against fraud in Cameroon.
We would like to assist both the private and public sectors in their efforts to reduce fraud and corruption to improve the business environment in Cameroon.
Do you have any advice for other chapter leaders?
Do not hesitate to take the first steps and be open to new volunteers joining you in this great adventure! Starting the chapter asked a lot of patience and self motivation to convince non-members and even ACFE members to join us locally. It is a constant fight.
What is your personal motto? Does it have any special meaning?
“What doesn't kill me makes me stronger.” No matter how many times you fail, keep trying as you will learn and succeed.