Training Link: Let’s start at the beginning. You mentioned a lifelong love for numbers. Can you tell us a bit more about that early passion?

Lindiwe Jacobs: Absolutely. I was born in Zimbabwe and moved to the UK when I was twelve. From a young age, I genuinely loved numbers. I even completed my Maths and Statistics GCSE’s a year early and passed them both, which shows how much I enjoyed it.

Training Link: That’s impressive! Yet, you initially pursued Media Studies at university. What led you down that path, and how did you eventually return to your true calling?

Lindiwe Jacobs: Deciding what to study for Sixth Form and university was a struggle. My background encouraged a medical route, which wasn’t for me. Because I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do, I chose Media Studies – it was fun and different, but not necessarily my true passion.

Even though I did well at university, my love for numbers never faded. While working in the Civil Service, I started helping with bookkeeping at my local church, which reignited that spark. The real turning point came after I had my son. I started thinking about the advice I’d give him about choosing a career – to pursue what you’re passionate about and gifted at.

When you love what you do, you don’t need to be pushed or persuaded; you’re naturally motivated.

That’s when I decided to take my own advice and pursue a career I was truly passionate about, one where I could serve others.

A New Chapter: Jacobs Bookkeeping

Training Link: That sounds like a significant decision. How did Training Link fit into this new chapter?

Lindiwe Jacobs: Fortunately, I have a very supportive husband who encouraged me every step of the way. I began studying the ICB Level 2 and 3 courses through Training Link in August 2024 and managed to complete my studies and exams by early February 2025. I then went on to study Level 4 Financial Statements and Corporation Tax via their self-study route, which I completed and passed in April 2025. What’s more, I managed to do all of this whilst looking after my one-year-old, who was only at nursery two half-days a week at the time!

Training Link: That’s an incredible pace, especially with a young child. How did you find the support from Training Link during your studies?

Lindiwe Jacobs: The Training Link team was incredibly supportive throughout my journey. From the clear, helpful feedback from my tutor to their flexibility in working around my childcare schedule when booking exams, they really made a difference.

Training Link: And now, you and your husband have launched Jacobs Bookkeeping. Could you tell us about your new practice and your mission?

Lindiwe Jacobs: Yes, we have! My husband and I both have backgrounds in banking, bankruptcy, liquidation, and business analysis. We’ve combined our expertise to offer bookkeeping services, end-of-year accounts, and corporation tax services. Our aim is to help business owners truly understand their finances, uncover growth opportunities, and make smarter decisions that support their business goals. As a family-run business, we deeply understand that behind every small business is a family with dreams of building a lasting legacy. We want to help those business owners save time, reduce tax, and grow profitably.

Training Link: That’s a fantastic mission, Lindiwe. Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring story with us! We wish you and Jacobs Bookkeeping every success for the future.