Q & A with Stephen Enebeli Annan, CFE

Stephen Enebeli Annan of Ghana recently became a CFE by studying with the CFE Exam Prep Course. When Stephen is not working, he enjoys watching soccer, preaching, and listening to gospel music. But this year, he put some time aside to focus on accomplishing his goal of obtaining the CFE credential. Stephen feels that the CFE credential has given him a new paradigm, as well as the knowledge and professional skill set required to prevent, deter, and detect fraud. As an auditor at a practice firm, the CFE credential aids him in working effectively and efficiently to deliver improved fraud risk management and tailored solutions to his clients.

Coach: When did you receive your CFE credential?

Annan: I received my CFE credential on March 29, 2018.

Coach: Please describe your experience using the CFE Exam Prep Course?

Annan: I had a great experience using the Prep Course as a one-stop shop for the CFE Exam. It was very user-friendly and well-tailored with an exam-focused approach. In fact, it demystifies the voluminous Fraud Examiners Manual by shoring knowledge and honing the skills necessary for the exam and eventual practice in a holistic manner.

Coach: What did you like most about the Prep Course?

Annan: I liked the timeline of deadlines and achievements, as it allowed me to set dates of completion and track the completion rate for myself, and the practice exam, which simulates the CFE Exam.

Coach: How long did it take you to complete the Prep Course and how often did you study?

Annan: It took me about three months to complete the Prep Course. I challenged myself and studied with the Prep Course for at least an hour every day after work, and I spent a little more time reviewing the Prep Course on weekends.

Coach: In what ways do you feel that your new CFE credential will be beneficial to you in your current profession?

Annan: I feel that the CFE credential has given me a new paradigm, as well as the knowledge and professional skill set required to prevent, deter, and detect fraud. As an auditor in a practice firm, the CFE credential aids me in working effectively and efficiently to deliver improved fraud risk management and tailored solutions to clients.

Coach: Would you recommend this course to your colleagues?

Annan: Definitely. Yes, I will recommend the Prep Course to my colleagues!

Coach: How did you become passionate about fighting fraud?

Annan: I realized I started becoming passionate about fighting fraud during my formative years when I noticed that I disliked, with utter passion, seeing or hearing of willful acts of deceit by psychopathic and sociopathic snakes in suits and ties and the unscrupulous individuals who denied many of the resources meant for them, thereby negatively affecting the lives of other people. I always wished to help make such persons accountable for their actions and to help prevent similar actions from happening again in the future by creating awareness of such schemes. This passion was fueled during the days when I was pursuing my first degree at the university; I engrossed myself in forensic accounting research in anticipation of my dissertation, but then I nosedived into the anti-fraud and anti-corruption fight. Not to mince words, but fraud is becoming an industry, and anti-fraud fighters must be up to the task of fighting this canker, which is the bane of development. Ever since then, my passion for fighting fraud has been unabated.

Coach: Now that we know what you do professionally, what do you like to do for fun and what do you find enjoyable about it?

Annan: I listen to good gospel music. At times I watch soccer, and other times I conduct research about socioeconomic issues. I also love to preach, share the gospel, and assist people whenever the opportunity presents itself.

Coach: Do you have any study tips or suggestions for aspiring CFEs?

Annan: Build a study plan and stick to it. As you have decided to pursue this prestigious certification, be committed to the plan. Set realistic timelines for your studies and avoid procrastination. Take about two to four practice tests. Remember, a champion does not give up at any point during a race, so keep on keeping on. You can make this happen. Be a CFE.