Lynette Pretorius

Lynette Pretorius is a professional accountant with 30 years of experience. As the owner of Austral Accounting, a firm specialising in the SME market, Lynette has dedicated her career to helping small and medium-sized enterprises thrive. “I absolutely love what I do on a daily basis,” she shares.

Lynette admits that her journey to success was “rather ordinary,” yet far from straightforward. “I loved drama in school,” she reveals. “It was my seventh subject, and I really thought I would pursue a career in theatre.” However, her mother had other ideas, encouraging her towards a more practical path. “She took me to a career counsellor, who said accounting was my strength. I wasn’t too excited about it at first, but in the 90s, there wasn’t much money in theatre.”

After starting her accounting degree at university, Lynette decided to drop out after the first year. “I wasn’t enjoying it, so I returned to Durban and started looking for a job. Ironically, I ended up in accounting.” Despite her initial reservations, she soon discovered an unexpected passion for accounting and taxation. “I loved the people, the systems, and the processes. So, I decided to go back and finish my degree. It took a while, but it was the best decision I ever made,” Lynette reflected.

Path to Growth
She went on to earn a Bachelor of Commerce, specialising in accounting and taxation, and still strives to improve her skills. “I keep doing CPDs (continuing professional development) — I love learning. We evolve as people so continuous learning is essential for success. It doesn’t matter what interests you; learning is the path to growth.”

“Accounting has a very structured career path. You finish your degree, do your articles, and then you’re ready to start your career.” She attributes her success to the opportunities she encountered early on. “I was fortunate to find a small business, Austral Accounting, right at the start of my career. I did my articles there, became a partner, and eventually took full ownership.”

While accounting may seem straightforward, Lynette notes that life can present challenges — ‘life happens’ she shares. “I was pregnant with my eldest son while trying to finish my degree,” she recalls. “Nothing is easy, but the career path is set, and you just have to get on with it.”

Despite these hurdles, Lynette has found fulfilment in her work. She is particularly proud of how her business has evolved. “We’ve changed the way accounting and finance is done in the SME sector,” she explains. “The use of technology has been a game-changer. But my favourite part of the business is the mentorship we provide. We’ve been able to train new professional accountants and help them enter the South African economy. It’s incredibly rewarding to know I’ve played a role in their careers.”

Empowering Women
When asked about what inspires her, Lynette doesn’t point to a single person. “It’s the people who come in and out of my life,” she says. “I love the people we do business with, the people in my sphere. Everyone contributes and uplifts me in some way.” Whether it’s a colleague or someone she encounters briefly, Lynette finds inspiration everywhere. “Even the guy who opened the lift with a smile this morning brightened my day.”

One of her standout achievements is her involvement in the FACET Leadership Programme. “I was fortunate to be part of a group of women building leadership skills,” she says. “It taught me so much, and I’ve been able to apply those skills in my business and within the community.” In addition, Lynette is part of the Graça Machel Trust, furthering her commitment to leadership and empowerment.

Lynette is acutely aware of the broader impact her business has. “For every one person we employ, we’re helping three or four others—whether it’s their families or their children. I think a lot of business people forget that it’s not just the individual you’re uplifting, but also those around them.”

For young women entering the business world, Lynette offers straightforward advice. “Believe in yourself,” she says. “I see so many women who don’t think they can achieve, and that’s simply not true.” She encourages women to reach out and leverage their networks. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help—whether it’s about government programmes, support, or advice. You don’t have to make the same mistakes others have made.”

Rule the World
Lynette’s ambitions go beyond her business, as she dreams of a more equitable society. “I want to rule the world,” she says with a laugh, but her message is serious and her ambitions are clearly grounded in having a lasting impact. “Women often get the raw side of the deal. We are mothers, caregivers, providers, and businesswomen, all rolled into one. My dream is to see a more equitable world where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to achieve their dreams.”

Her recent travels to India highlighted the stark contrast between women’s freedom in various parts of the world. “In South Africa, we are fortunate that women can partake in economic activity. But in many places, women are still oppressed. My big dream is fairness for all, where everyone can pursue their goals and aspirations.”

Outside of work, Lynette enjoys spending time at home and travelling with her husband. “It sounds corny, but I love being at home,” she says. One of her newfound hobbies is playing padel tennis. “I’m useless at it,” she laughs, “but I have fun, and that’s what matters.”

She also enjoys crafting with her Cricut machine, making T-shirts, caps, and mugs for her staff. “It’s a fun way to keep busy and show my appreciation to those around me,” concluded Lynette.