Early Achievement Award 2024

Alan Aburto CPA

Alan's career path exemplifies empathetic and strategic leadership, coupled with a deep respect for others. He has mentored aspiring CPAs in every organization he has worked with, including the CPA Western School of Business and Kingston Ross Pasnak LLP, implementing innovative frameworks to foster transparency and accountability.

As a transformational leader, Alan was an integral part of technological advancements at Kingston Ross Pasnak LLP, leveraging AI and data analytics to enhance business practices and create efficiencies. His leadership as Chair of the Professional Development Committee and involvement with the Information Technology Action Committee demonstrates his commitment to driving positive change and innovation within organizations.

Alan has played a vital role in several communities, including Saddle Lake Cree Nation and CARFAC Alberta, to train Indigenous non-accountants to learn and master several accounting-related processes so they can strive for independence, fiscal responsibility, and accountability. As Volunteer Treasurer at CARFAC Alberta, he implemented financial controls and mentored the Executive Director, enhancing the organization's financial management and operational efficiency. While working as an auditor with Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Alan went above and beyond what it means to be a member of the CPA profession by immersing himself in the community and practicing respect, which served to bridge gaps between Indigenous communities and the profession. His dedication to Saddle Lake Cree Nation extends to participating in community and cultural events, mentoring aspiring CPAs, and working closely with the Nation’s leadership and management.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
Earning my CPA designation provided me with the foundation required to not only succeed as a business professional but, more importantly, to have the opportunity to have an impact on others as a mentor and leader. I believe that a CPA not only has a fiduciary duty to the public from a financial perspective, but also from an educational perspective. Knowledge is transformative and transcends all societal, economic, and cultural barriers. The ability to empower others with knowledge gained as a CPA is the most impactful single tool that the designation has provided me with.

Why is it important for you to give back?
For me, the importance of giving back really comes down to generational impact in a person or person’s life. In my career and my personal journey through life, I’ve had many mentors, role models, and leaders that shaped the course of my life by contributing selflessly to my success and well-being. Without the proper guidance, the course of my career and my life would not be where it is today and I truly find it rewarding and humbling to be in a position to have that same effect on others.

What values do you live by?
The values that I live by are all rooted in the desire to assist others from an altruistic perspective. I believe that the only semblance of personal gain from giving back should be in the joy felt from the rewarding feeling of having helped another person or organization.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
The largest part of my success can be attributed to the work I've done with different First Nations. Having the privilege to practice accounting while being immersed in a culture so rooted in respect and connection to the community allowed me to develop in a variety of ways as a young practitioner. Having the opportunity to then give back as an established CPA and develop new CPAs has been instrumental in my personal and professional life.

Thank you note.
I’d like to thank my family whose unconditional love and support shaped me into the person I am today. I’d also like to thank all the mentors I’ve had in my professional career in both public practice and in the real estate industry who have had a profound impact on my professional career and empowered me with the ability to impact the community and next generation of CPAs. Lastly, I’d like to thank all my CPA Alberta colleagues who have welcomed me into their professional family with open arms this year. The values that the organization embodies align so closely with who I am as a person and professional, I feel privileged to have them by my side to celebrate this moment with me.

Barrett Bettger CPA, CA

Barrett is a dedicated CPA who balances his work commitments with deep involvement in the profession and his community. He also has a demonstrated passion for advancing the profession and ensuring it is relevant and attractive for future generations.

Since 2018, he has volunteered as part of the local Lethbridge CPA Chapter and was instrumental in the continued success of the Lethbridge Chapter of CPAs. He was the Vice-chair in the 2021 term and became Chair in 2022. Barrett has dedicated his time volunteering with the Chapter to building solid relationships with the University of Lethbridge and Lethbridge College; these key partnerships ensure the accounting profession stays relevant for post-secondary students.

His passion for attracting and retaining the next generation of CPAs extends to his work as a previous Senior Manager at KPMG LLP and current Partner at Best Roest & Company LLP. There, Barrett plays an essential role in mentoring and training new CPAs. In the community, Barrett has been a Ronald McDonald House of Alberta fundraiser since 2015 and an integral Lethbridge Dragonboat sporting community member for many years. In these roles, he served as a team manager, fundraiser, event volunteer, and more.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
The CPA designation is valued for its comprehensive education, global recognition, and commitment to ethical standards. It is the mark of excellence in the accounting profession and opens the doors for individuals in Canada and across the world.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
Earning my CPA designation was long and difficult journal but was worth every moment. The CPA designation has allowed me to become the professional I am today.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Volunteering is rewarding to me because it allows me to make a positive impact, promotes personal growth, helps me build connections, and fosters a sense of gratitude. Being able to help those around me succeed is truly invaluable and continues to inspire me to continue to give back.

Why is it important for you to give back?
Giving back is important to me to make a positive impact, promote personal growth and help those in the way that others have helped me and my family.

What values do you live by?
My grandfather always taught me to live by the values of discipline, honour, integrity and respect. To act with integrity and do what is right, even in difficult situations. Honour, in keeping promises, and treating others with respect. Discipline, in setting goals, staying focused and persevering.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
My family has played an instrumental role in my success and continued growth. They have instilled in me the importance of perseverance, determination, and resilience which has helped me overcome my obstacles and achieve my goals. Their constant support, guidance and belief in me has been the driving force behind my accomplishments. Their love, encouragement and unwavering support has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams and push myself to reach new heights and has created the solid foundation for my personal and professional growth.

Thank you note.
It is a privilege and an honour to have been selected as a recipient of the Early Achievement Award. A very big thank you to the countless mentors, peers and family for all the support, inspiration and being a large part of my success. Most importantly, I am eternally grateful for my wife and beautiful daughter who are my biggest champions.

Joseph D’Angelo CPA, CA

Joe's professional journey is marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence and community service. As Controller at Kineticor, Joe has played a pivotal role in the company's growth from a single entity to a thriving organization with multiple entities. Beyond overseeing the accounting department, Joe provides leadership across various business domains—including IT, marketing, HR, and administration—offering valuable insights into project financing, forecasting, and resource allocation while also interfacing with the Board.

Joe volunteers as a speaker and panelist at various CPA Alberta recruitment events, providing mentorship to aspiring CPAs and professionals in the early stages of their careers. He was selected for the inaugural CPA Alberta Inspired Leaders program, recognizing his dedication to the profession and community.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Joe is deeply engaged in giving back to the community. For more than a decade, he has volunteered with the Special Olympics in various capacities, including coaching, fundraising, and organizing events. His dedication to community service and his courageous act of preventing an attempted kidnapping earned him recognition from the Calgary Police Service with the Chief's Award for Exceptional Recognition.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
Despite accounting being the one topic that truly resonated with me in school, I would be lying if I said that the true reason I chose to become a CPA wasn’t because of my older sister. As I watched her career begin and (very quickly) flourish, I selfishly thought “…I can do it better than her.” Though she is, in fact, the superior CPA in the family, the CPA itself provides such a wonderful breadth of opportunity, both personally and professionally. You aren’t limited to a life of numbers, excel spreadsheets, and financial statements. It provides a chance to both explore and succeed in virtually every avenue of an organization’s operation.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
One of the most impactful parts of earning my designation has been the ability to both understand and embrace the value of failure. Looking back, I consider myself lucky having failed my first attempt at the UFE. Though, at the time, it felt like my career was over almost as quickly as it began, through thoughtful mentorship and self reflection, I was able to reconfigure my feelings about how much inherent value comes from failing. Since that time, I have experienced failure in a multitude of ways, both personally and professionally, and each time learn valuable lessons which are key in the ability succeed.

Why is it important for you to give back?
I have had countless friends, family members, mentors, and colleagues who have selflessly given their time, support, and guidance to me throughout my life, without ever expecting anything in return. I would be doing a disservice to myself, and those who helped me, if I did not return the favour by also dedicating my time, support, and guidance to those who may also need it; wherever they are in their life.

Thank you note.
To my incredible wife, Lanna, and beautiful daughters, Ellie and Willow, you are my reasons why. You are what gives my life true purpose, and I would not be where I am today without your unconditional love and support. I am also beyond fortunate to have such wonderful parents, and supportive sisters who have been there every step of this journey.

Edward Gots CPA, CA

Eddie has made significant strides in transforming both his organization and community. His leadership exemplifies a commitment to sustainable growth and philanthropy, leaving a lasting legacy of positive change.

Since joining the Youth Empowerment and Services Society (YESS), Eddie has transformed its internal financial practices, implementing controls and an accounting structure that helped the organization become more financially stable and sustainable. He also helped create a culture of trust and confidence at YESS and improve the quality of life for the YESS community.

Eddie’s impact extends to co-founding ExtraLife, a charity fundraiser supporting the Stollery Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network, where the event’s annual fundraising efforts have gone from $20,000 to $200,000.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
I chose the CPA designation to further advance my career, provide me with a breadth of experience, and afford myself opportunities both locally and abroad.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
From my knowledge, I am the first member of my family to complete a university degree and obtain a professional designation. It has been a great source of pride to have obtained the CPA designation, and has supported me in being where I am today.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Knowing the impact that my actions, donations, etc. will have on people who need support and the individuals providing the support to those in need.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
This is not one specific experience, but a continuous one. If I do not take intentional time to heal myself, then I won't have the capacity to provide anything for others.

Why is it important for you to give back?
I am only where I am today because of the support of family, friends, teachers, co-workers, etc. who happened to be there in the moments I needed them most. By giving back, I hope that either directly or indirectly I am helping to create more moments where people can get that support in the moments they need it most that will help them push forward.

What values do you live by?
I don't have a set of values that I live by; however, I am always striving to leave positive impacts in all of my interactions in life, and I hope to always leave something behind that was better than when I got there.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
Everyone that has interacted with me has helped shaped the person I am today, and will help to continue to refine that person in the future.

Thank you note.
Thank you to everyone who has interacted with me throughout my journey!

Mark Kehrig CPA, CA

Mark, a Partner in MNP's Tax Services team, has made significant contributions to tax planning in northwestern Alberta and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on both clients and the community. Leveraging his educational background in agribusiness, he serves clients across diverse locations and industries, including agriculture, oilfield services, forestry, hospitality, and professional services.

Mark demonstrates exceptional proficiency in navigating complex tax-related issues, whether he's educating colleagues at MNP or serving as the Tax Controversy Champion in the Peace Region. His expertise is further highlighted by his involvement in shaping legislation through contributions to the Bill C208 consultations and his insights shared with various groups, including the Grande Prairie Hospital Foundation. In addition to his professional role, Mark is dedicated to mentorship, serving as the Partner Champion at MNP’s internal mentor program and personally guiding aspiring and new CPAs.

Outside of work, he actively contributes to youth development as an assistant coach of multiple hockey teams and sponsor for the Grande Prairie Minor Hockey Association, showcasing his commitment to community involvement.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
Challenging but rewarding designation. My interest in tax made the CPA designation an obvious choice and the challenging nature of the career also guided me towards obtaining my designation. I like to solve problems and have variety in my work and having the CPA designation allows me to find solutions on different problems on a daily basis.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Youth sports were very important to me growing up and I understand the need for coaches/volunteers to keep these programs running. Coaching allows me to help kids learn new skills and be a mentor/role model for them, like so many people did for me when I was a child.

Thank you note.
Thank you to my wife and kids for supporting me and helping me reach my goals. Thank you to my parents for teaching me the value of hard-work and commitment. Thank you to MNP for nominating me for this award and providing me with the amazing mentors throughout my career and their continued support.

Joshua Letendre CPA

Joshua has swiftly become a beacon in the profession, particularly in his mentoring and support of Indigenous students. Beginning as a Lab Tutor at MacEwan University when he was still a student himself, Joshua’s dedication to teaching and mentoring has led him to being a Sessional Instructor at MacEwan, an instructor in the Indigenous Learners in Accounting Initiative at the CPA Western School of Business, and the inaugural Executive Director of the New Buffalo Education Circle.

Joshua was instrumental in helping set up the New Buffalo Education Circle, a non-profit created to support Indigenous post-secondary learners in under-represented areas, such as business and STEM. New Buffalo strives to create awareness of higher education for Indigenous youth, build community centred around education, and provide equitable access to employment opportunities along the journey. He’s managed governance, built relationships with post-secondaries and sponsors, and helped successfully launch the organization with a board that is majority Indigenous.

Committed to his community as a whole, Joshua’s volunteerism has also been invaluable at Special Olympics Alberta, with the Stony Plain Seed Cleaning Association, and on the CPA Education Foundation board. Joshua's passion and dedication have undoubtedly left a positive imprint on the future of the CPA profession and Indigenous representation within it.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
I chose the CPA designation because I wanted to make a difference within my community. Being a CPA, I am able to support local businesses and individuals in growing their business. I am the first person in my family to pursue a professional designation and want to use this opportunity and my education to help make a difference for other Indigenous people within my community. The CPA designation has allowed me to create my own path balancing accounting work with teaching and I couldn’t be more excited for what the future holds. And of course, I was good at math growing up, so naturally accounting was the choice, right?

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
Being a CPA has created opportunities that I never imagined possible. Most people think accountants just crunch the numbers, but a CPA does much more than that. Earning my CPA designation has allowed me to start my own business, work in the non-profit sector, and teach for a post-secondary and for the Indigenous Learners in Accounting program through CPA Western School of Business. The impact of becoming a CPA has allowed me to give back and work with my community and create opportunities for other Indigenous people wanting to pursue higher education and accounting.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
The most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing the impact you can have on others and their community and the smiles that come with it. My most rewarding experience so far would be volunteering with Special Olympics Alberta. I’ve never met a more excited, optimistic, and competitive group of people that have a smile on their face every single day. The excitement that they bring to each competition and event is unmatched by anything else and I know as a volunteer that I leave each event with a smile from ear to ear – that’s the more rewarding part of volunteering.

Why is it important for you to give back?
Giving back is important because it builds a stronger community. We are taught about the circle of life and our journey in life, and within that, giving back and helping others is an important piece. We learn and find support from others to build a career and our knowledge until one day we are able to give back and support the next generation and our community. Everyone needs help at some point on their journey and having those people who are willing to dedicate time to helping others is what will make our communities stronger.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
My family has always been in my corner, supporting me throughout my education journey and ensuring that I always knew I could turn to them for help. My family has dedicated so much time towards my success and I think that receiving this Early Achievement Award is a testament to the support system I have had and continue to have in everything I do.

Thank you note.
Thank you to my family for supporting me through school and helping me get to this point in my career, their support means the world to me. Whether it is a coffee, beer, or game of cards, they know the best versions of support to help keep me going. I would also like to thank everyone that believed I was deserving of an Early Achievement Award. Aroon, thank you for nominating me; Deb, Shawna, and Yuen, thank you for supporting my nomination. And thank you to everyone who I have had the pleasure of meeting, studying, and working with on my journey.

Scott Loder CPA, CA

Scott’s dedication to mentorship, financial stewardship, and community involvement has impacted his colleagues at the Office of the Auditor General of Alberta, future CPAs, and organizations and communities around the world.

His commitment to public sector transparency, accountability, and volunteerism extends globally. Scott serves as a mentor and facilitator with the Canadian Audit and Accountability Foundation, where he shares his expertise in performance auditing and assurance over Alberta's oil and gas sector—this has taken him to countries in Africa and South America. Scott has also played a key role in developing a performance audit methodology and establishing a social media presence for the Office of the Auditor General of Bermuda. These actions further underscore his impactful contributions to enhancing government accountability and transparency.

At his office, Scott helped to develop recommendations on performance measurement and contract compliance for more than $1 billion of contracts that impact services Albertans rely on, such as healthcare, libraries, and schools. Further demonstrating his commitment to mentorship and the community, Scott is actively involved in CPA Canada’s Martin Mentorship Program. This program focuses on improving education outcomes for Indigenous youth. Through this program, Scott has delivered fiscal literacy presentations, assisted with applications for grant programs, and helped build students’ knowledge and skills as they move through high school and into post-secondary education.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
Throughout university, I heard time and time again how many doors a CPA designation can open. I thought about doing post-graduate studies at university, but decided to do CPA instead. I’ve never looked back! It’s incredible just how much you can do with a CPA.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
I cannot believe just how many opportunities there are as a CPA – not only in Canada, but also abroad. It has afforded me so many interesting opportunities to travel, meet new people from all walks of life, experience their culture, live, work, and mentor abroad. Those little three letters (“CPA”) open a lot of doors!

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
I have built so many meaningful professional relationships and, in many cases, friendships, through volunteering and mentorship. I learn so much from these relationships and have immense personal fulfilment. Seeing positive results is also very rewarding – getting to see people succeed and grow as people makes it all worthwhile.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
I have learned a lot about time management. Still meeting the timelines and requirements of my ‘regular job’ and being able to participate in things like the International Development Program with the Canadian Audit and Accountability Foundation, or the CPA Martin Mentorship Program takes a lot of time, but it doesn’t feel like work because it is so fulfilling.

Why is it important to give back?
I have been afforded so many good opportunities in my personal and professional life, it’s my responsibility to give back and share the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from those opportunities with others.

What values do you live by?
Trust, respect, and diversity of thought. Trust is the basis of effective relationships, honesty, and open communication. With respect, people consider other perspectives, experiences, and contributions. And diversity of thought recognizes the incredible contributions of different cultures, backgrounds, and viewpoints. This all helps to create a supportive culture working toward common goals or objectives.

Thank you note.
The support I’ve received throughout the years from my incredible and talented colleagues has helped me to get to where I am today. Working for and with people who you respect not only as professionals but as individuals makes a world of difference. Thank you!

Kylie Marsh CPA

Kylie has demonstrated exceptional advancement in her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, swiftly rising to the role of Manager. Renowned for her competence and reliability, she devotes considerable time and effort to mentoring junior staff, ensuring they receive the support needed to thrive in their positions. Her commitment to personal growth is evident in her active participation in PwC's Women in Leadership program, reflecting her belief in the importance of continuous self-improvement.

Recognized as a trailblazer for the future workforce, Kylie challenges conventions, embraces risk-taking, and advocates for inclusivity and diversity within the accounting field. Her leadership extends beyond the workplace into the community, notably as the Chair of PwC's United Way Campaign. Through innovative initiatives, such as a digitally enabled and gamified campaign, Kylie has made a significant impact on local charities, raising more than $250,000 and facilitating nearly 3,000 volunteer hours, particularly during the challenging times of the pandemic. Her initiatives have positioned PwC as a leader in virtual community engagement and philanthropy.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
Before I began my journey towards my CPA designation I knew it would open many doors and leave me with diverse possibilities when it came to career paths and professional opportunities. What I didn’t know was how much the designation would change and evolve and how much the world around me would change even in my first few years as a CPA. In a world full of uncertainty, the foundation as a CPA and support network of my fellow CPAs has been truly invaluable.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
Earning my CPA designation has brought me endless opportunities but most importantly endless connections. Being a CPA and working in public practice means I spend my days surrounded by motivated, high-achieving, growth-oriented peers and mentors who are always encouraging, motivating and challenging me to be my best. Without the people I’ve surrounded myself with, I would never have even aimed for the goals I’ve achieved so far as a CPA. It will come as no surprise that one of my favourite parts about being a CPA today is encouraging others along in their own journey towards achieving their CPA and celebrating with them at each milestone.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
The importance of giving back was instilled in me at a young age and it's something I’ve carried with me throughout my life. Getting involved in various volunteering initiatives has allowed me to meet like-minded people, learn more about the communities I’ve called home over the years and utilize my skills and experience for the betterment of others. Volunteering has opened my eyes to how big the needs of our community really are and gives me a sense of belonging and purpose. I truly believe that you get more out of giving back than you ever put in, if you are doing it right.

Thank you note.
None of my accomplishments as a CPA would be possible without the endless support of my friends, peers and mentors at PwC who have guided and supported me every step of the way. I would also like to thank my parents and boyfriend, Aiden, for their endless support, encouragement and patience along the way.

Nimra Mehmud CPA

Nimra's commitment to the CPA profession shines through her unwavering dedication to the CPA education program. Her expertise is evident in her volunteer engagements, encompassing roles such as a marker of the Common Final Examination, tutor for various CPA program modules, panelist for a CPA Professional Education Program Capstone 1 information session, and judge for the CPA Education Foundation Business Case Challenge.

Moreover, Nimra's involvement in the Practical Experience Mentorship Program has provided invaluable guidance to numerous CPA candidates. Nimra's enduring passion for education and mentorship extends to her efforts in guiding post-secondary students. Through personalized support, she ensures candidates not only fulfill practical experience requirements but also acquire the essential skills and knowledge necessary for prosperous careers.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
I choose to pursue the CPA designation due to its numerous benefits that extend beyond career advancement. Obtaining the CPA designation allowed me to access diverse job sectors, given the universal demand for accounting expertise. Through fulfilling the educational and work experience requirements for the designation, I developed a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and their practical application. The CPA profession garners immense respect, with individuals placing considerable trust in CPAs and their expertise.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
Earning the CPA designation has had a positive impact on my life, proving to be immensely fulfilling. It provided me access to a wide array of job opportunities and facilitated my career progression. The global recognition of the CPA designation has significantly broadened my career horizons, as it is acknowledged internationally. Through the process, I honed my leadership and analytical skills, applying them to assist CPA candidates, businesses, and tackle challenges in the workplace. This wealth of experience has fueled my personal and professional growth, enriching me as an individual and enhancing my capabilities in the field.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Volunteering as a CPA has proven rewarding for me as I witness the positive impact of contributions in individuals’ lives. I am able to apply my technical accounting skills that allow me to make tangible differences and foster personal growth by developing my leadership and communication skills.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
I have encountered some complex financial accounting challenges while serving others as a CPA which can be demanding. Despite the difficulty of these situations, it has provided me opportunities to demonstrate qualities such as integrity, professionalism, and ethical leadership. By successfully navigating these challenges, I am able to enhance my critical thinking, problem solving and decision making skills, ultimately strengthening the CPA’s reputation and credibility in the field.

Why is it important for you to give back?
I have received mentoring during my CPA designation journey, I understand the significance of passing it forward and giving back to the profession. By supporting others and fostering a collaborative environment, we can contribute to the creation of a supportive, resilient, and equitable community. Together, we can shape a profession that offers opportunities and support for all its members, ultimately promoting a more inclusive and prosperous society.

What values do you live by?
I strive to live by the values of kindness and compassion, always seeking to understand and empathize with others' situations. Recognizing that we are all unique and different, I believe in tolerance and leveraging the goodness in others to continuously improve myself each day. Embracing diversity and fostering an environment of acceptance allows me to grow and contribute positively to the world around me.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
My family, particularly my parents, have been instrumental in my success. They have unwaveringly believed in my capabilities and consistently motivated me to strive for excellence. Their encouragement and support have instilled in me the confidence to pursue my goals relentlessly. My friends and colleagues from various stages of my life have also contributed to my success. Their encouragement and shared experiences have enriched my journey, reminding me of the importance of collaboration and connection in achieving personal and professional growth.

Thank you note.
As a CPA, I believe in the transformative power of education and mentorship to shape the future of our profession. It's a privilege to contribute to the growth and development of aspiring accountants, empowering them to succeed in an ever-evolving landscape.

Nadine Niba CPA

Nadine, Manager of Digital and Technology Risk and Assurance at PwC, has achieved remarkable success in a short time. Her dedication has earned her PwC's prestigious Enhanced Work Practice Award for coaching staff to excel in client engagements. A champion of diversity and inclusion, Nadine volunteers as a speaker to enhance recruitment of diverse candidates at PwC. She is an active contributor to PwC's Black Professional Inclusion Network and previously served six years on EY's Black Professional Network. Nadine's efforts in mentoring, recruitment, and community engagement have significantly enhanced inclusivity and diversity at PwC, inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

Beyond her professional role, Nadine is committed to community engagement. She mentors internationally trained accountants and women of colour pursuing the CPA designation through CPA Alberta's Mentorship Program. She volunteers with the Alberta Chapter of Immigrant Women in Business, supporting professional immigrant women in developing financial literacy, networks, careers, and leadership skills. Nadine also serves on the board of Felicheeta Artistry Inc., promoting BIPOC-owned businesses importing beauty products from Africa to Canada.

Nadine has also been named this year’s recipient of the Norman Wildgoose Award. It is given to a CPA Alberta Early Achievement Award recipient with exemplary community involvement. The award is given by the Deloitte Foundation in memory of former Deloitte partner Norman Wildgoose.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
Being an Accountant is a childhood dream. I was enrolled into business school in Cameroon from the age of 9. I went to a very specialized school, "Regina Pacis College," the best commercial school in the Republic of Cameroon that focused on training students in this line of profession from the very young age of 9. At that age, that very forward-thinking decision was made by my Dad " Mr Suh NIba Simon". However, as I grew through it, I developed a love and passion for the accounting profession that it became the only thing I wanted to become. Becoming a CPA for me is indeed “ A childhood dream come true”.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
I specifically love this profession because in the CPA profession, we are not trained to just do financial statements. We are trained to become CEOs of companies because it is “putting it all together”. CPAs are very diversified individuals in the world of business administration that being one gives you an ability to be a great contributor towards a company realizing its vision. Earning my CPA has made me "that person." The one who sees a company's potential and works with the management of the company to work towards achieving it.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
I am living my childhood dream. The best part about living my dream is helping others reach theirs. This the sole purpose of life. It is the sole purpose of my existence and living in my purpose is extremely rewarding.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
What is challenging in helping others, is seeing your own weakness as a person in that encounter. For example, in a mentorship relationship, when I have sessions with my mentees, they challenge me, they ask me very real and tough questions and a lot of times after such meetings, I am forced to look inward and face my own fears and insecurities. The good thing that always come out of this is, at the end of the day I grow as a person. However in the moment when the inner work is happening, it is always a challenge. Serving others has always being a win-win for me because iron sharpens iron. I develop as much as the people I serve develop too.

Why is it important for you to give back?
I come from very humble beginnings. I come from West Africa Cameroon. My family was less than middle class economically. I think when you come from such a background, there is a form of humility, empathy and zeal to change the story of every other person who grew up in the same situation as you. I migrated to Canada 10 years ago as an International student, I worked 3 jobs in the summers to pay my tuition and see myself through school. It has been a very tough journey to this point. I grew up in an economic situation where majority of the women went into early marriages because that was the easy way out. Some ended up in abusive marriages. It was important that I change this story.

What values do you live by?
Humility, Integrity and Excellence.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
The list is very long. This has mostly been the teachers who taught me in school, my family, my pastor, the men and women in my life who spoke life into me during hard times, believed in my dreams even when they seemed like a big joke, Watched out for my public and private reputation. A few I have never met but do incredibly amazing things in their communities that inspire me to keep going. I come as one but I stand as ten thousand. Where I am today is a sum total of the efforts of all the people who love me.

Thank you note.
I come as one but I stand as ten thousand. I am the sum total of the efforts of the people who love me.

Todd Tremblay CPA, CA

Todd is an outstanding member of the MNP LLP Grande Prairie and Area team, achieving the position of partner in just four years. His dedication and impactful work within the Fort St. John community were instrumental in his rapid advancement. Within MNP, Todd is highly regarded as a trusted advisor, leading technological advancements and addressing intricate business needs. Additionally, he serves as a mentor and educator in the Peace Region, delivering presentations and training seminars to empower teams and enhance their expertise. Todd's exceptional commitment to client service and community welfare is evident in his willingness to go the extra mile, extending his efforts to remote areas like Chetwynd to fulfill specific tax needs, demonstrating his dedication to both the broader community and the practice.

Todd’s commitment extends beyond the office, where he served as Vice-Chair and is now the Treasurer of the Northwestern Alberta Community Foundation. Here, he utilizes his financial expertise to translate complex concepts into actionable strategies, contributing to the foundation's sustained success. Todd's unwavering dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others, both professionally and philanthropically, cements his reputation as a respected figure among peers and a cornerstone of the community's prosperity.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
I always knew that I wanted to be "in business". As my education advanced, it was clear to me that accounting was the path that would get me to where I wanted to be. I also had an interest in going to law school. Getting to practice as a tax specialist is the perfect blend of the two.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
My CPA has opened doors and allowed me opportunities that I never could have imagined. I have been given the opportunity to really curate my own experience in my career, it's an amazing feeling.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
The designation has also allowed me the ability to give back to the community and those that need a lift, and I feel a responsibility to do so.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
That's the fun of it, there's always a new challenge and an opportunity to grow!

Why is it important for you to give back?
There are many important needs and causes in society today that require support that they aren't getting. If you can do anything at all to offset that and improve the conditions around you, you should.

What values do you live by?
Hard work and a responsibility to look after yourself and those around you.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
My mentors at MNP and in my personal life have been a key part of my success. I could not have done it without their selflessness and guidance.

Thank you note.
Immense gratitude to the whole team, you know who you are, and I could not have done it without you.