Editor’s note: ISACA’s Career Catalyst Stories showcase how members have been supported by ISACA throughout all stages of their careers. Today, we profile Sampa David Sampa, CISA, IGP. Find out more about ISACA membership here.
Sampa David Sampa has many cherished hobbies, but long-distance walking is the one that ties them all together.
“Walking clears my mind, fuels creativity for photography, and enhances my endurance for martial arts,” he said. “It’s a reminder that progress, both professional and personal, is a journey—one step at a time.”
Just as walking is the binding ingredient for his hobbies, Sampa points to his relationship with ISACA as bringing together all the elements he needs to progress his career.
“From the knowledge gained to the career opportunities unlocked, ISACA has played a central role in shaping my professional path,” Sampa said.
Sampa and ISACA: early career
Sampa has no difficulty pinpointing the turning point that altered the trajectory of his career path: obtaining his Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) credential.
It was 2014, and Sampa was working as an auditor for one of the Big 4 firms. Although his career was going well, he lacked specialized knowledge.
“While I had technical skills, I knew that formalizing my expertise through a recognized certification would set me apart,” he said. “During this time, I had colleagues and mentors who consistently spoke about ISACA—its global reputation, its professional network, and, most importantly, the impact of its certifications.”
Their encouragement planted the seed. He started attending ISACA chapter events and engaging with professionals who had successfully leveraged ISACA certifications to elevate their careers.
“What struck me most was their shared enthusiasm—each of them credited ISACA with providing not just knowledge, but a community of experts who supported their growth,” Sampa said. “That was the push I needed.”
Sampa set his sights on the CISA. He spent countless hours studying ISACA’s materials, applying real-world scenarios to the frameworks he was learning and discussing key concepts with peers who had already become certified. He called his CISA preparation “intense but rewarding.”
“The process demanded discipline and critical thinking—both of which have since become essential in my professional life,” Sampa said. “When I finally sat for the exam, I knew I had done everything possible to prepare. Passing the CISA exam wasn’t just about earning a credential—it was about proving to myself that I was ready for the next phase of my career.”
What’s happening now?
After earning his certification, Sampa was given the opportunity to lead a complex audit engagement for a major client. It was a critical project, and expectations were high. However, thanks to the structured approach he developed through his CISA studies, Sampa was able to assess risks more effectively, identify control gaps with greater confidence and communicate findings in a way that resonated with stakeholders.
“The results spoke for themselves,” Sampa said. “The project was a success, earning positive feedback from both the client and leadership within my organization. This experience solidified what I had already suspected: the knowledge and methodologies gained through ISACA certification were not just theoretical—they had immediate, real-world applications.”
Today, Sampa, a resident of Zambia, serves as a regional senior IT auditor with World Vision International, where he provides leadership in IT assurance in Southern Africa. His relationship with ISACA continues to grow, including participating in multiple working groups through his Lusaka Chapter, and seeking out continuous learning opportunities through ISACA publications, conferences and training programs.
“I view ISACA as a framework for professional growth, ensuring I stay ahead of emerging risks and industry developments,” he said.
What’s next for Sampa?
Sampa knows that keeping ahead of emerging technology trends will require ongoing vigilance, and he is committed to growing his IT assurance leadership capabilities.
“As threats grow more complex and regulatory requirements become stricter, I plan to further leverage ISACA’s resources to deepen my expertise and explore additional certifications,” Sampa said. “The learning never stops, and ISACA remains my trusted guide in staying ahead of things.”
He is also interested in exploring additional certifications. Sampa offered parting advice for professionals mulling how certification fits into their career paths.
“If my colleagues and mentors hadn’t encouraged me to take that first step, I might have delayed this journey much longer,” he said. “If you’re thinking about pursuing an ISACA certification, don’t wait—start today. It’s a decision that will not only elevate your career but also connect you to a global network of professionals committed to excellence.”
Abstract photography is among Sampa's hobbies.
