Ep 21 Stories, Systems & the Spark of Innovation with Perla Habchi

Stories, Systems & the Spark of Innovation In this episode of Inspiring Women in Audit, I speak with Perla Habchi. Perla is an Internal Audit Project Leader with the Government of Canada and the Chair of Advocacy and Academic Relations for the IIA Ottawa Chapter. Recognized as a 2024 Emerging Leader by the IIA and recipient of the 2023 Internal Audit Vision Award, Perla’s work bridges innovation and impact. Perla is the creator of the Innovation System Internal Controls Framework, featured in Internal Auditor magazine, and is widely known for her passion in elevating the next generation of auditors. In our conversation, Perla shares how an “accidental” entry into audit transformed into a fulfilling career grounded in innovation, storytelling, and courage. She reflects on the moment she realized internal audit was her calling - and how she’s since used that passion to push boundaries within the public sector. Listeners will gain insight into Perla’s groundbreaking innovation framework, how she navigates delivering difficult messages, and why storytelling is crucial to audit reporting - especially in the public eye. Her dedication to student outreach, volunteerism, and future-forward thinking shines through as she discusses her legacy in motion. Perla also dives into the courage required to speak up, mentor emerging professionals, and hold space for new voices. With authenticity and clarity, she inspires us to rethink what impact looks like within internal audit - and how we can all lead with purpose. Episode Breakdown2:53 – An Accidental Auditor8:15 – A World Apart from Finance12:53 – Every Finding's a Story18:20 – Delivering Hard Truths23:46 – Framework That Won28:57 – Innovation in Action33:07 – Award-Winning Audit36:29 – Inspiring the Next Gen44:10 – Taking Pride in Audit46:57 – Public Lens, Public Trust51:00 – Bravery in Audit55:02 – Helping New Voices Rise1:07:01 – Legacy in Motion Be sure to connect with Perla Habchi on LinkedIn. And be sure to follow Inspiring Women in Audit on LinkedIn, and connect with Tracie. Join the Exclusive Inspiring Women in Audit LinkedIn Group:This group is dedicated to empowering and uplifting women in the internal audit profession, providing a supportive space for women to share their journeys, insights, and expertise. By fostering meaningful connections, we aim to inspire, encourage, and drive transformative change within the industry. Join us to celebrate the achievements of women in audit and to be part of a community that values and amplifies your unique perspectives and experiences. Sign up for our newsletter! ★ ★ ★ ★ ★This podcast is brought to you by i4 Global Results Limited and Amplify Your Audit Results, the audit communication experts dedicated to transforming your audit reporting and your audit results through communication, optimization, and collaboration. Schedule time with us.