Al Kim Lutao

Al Kim Lutao is on a mission to make a difference—not just in accounting, but in his community. “I was once there. I was wearing everyone’s shoes back then,” he says. “I don’t want people to experience the hardships and challenges that I once faced.”

Originally from the Philippines, Kim earned his accounting degree and worked there before moving to Dubai to continue his career as a general accountant. He later made another bold move to Canada to pursue his dream of becoming a CPA.

Kim quickly found his purpose through community involvement, especially on campus.
As a Student Director with the SAIT Students’ Association, he represents students and advocates for better access to mental health, housing, and transit support. He also serves as the inaugural President of the SAIT Student Honour Society, inspiring top-performing students to pair academic excellence with community engagement.

Starting as a peer mentor, he quickly became a team lead for his fellow mentors, guiding both mentors and mentees in finding their footing. He also volunteers with the Office of Student Engagement and the International Centre, helping new and international students feel at home. “I’m just really out there as much as possible, lending my helping hand whenever I can,” he says.

His advice to other accounting students? “Do not be afraid of making mistakes, as long as you get the lessons out from your mistakes.”

Q&A with Kim

What does being named a Capitalize Campus Star mean to you?

Being named a Capitalize Campus Star means so much more to me than an award or a title. To me, it’s a powerful reminder that all the hard work, long nights, and sacrifices I’ve made were not wasted. As an international student, studying and building a future here in Canada has come with its own challenges, and this recognition stands as one of my greatest achievements during my academic journey. It reassures me that I’m on the right path and that perseverance truly matters. More than anything, I hope this inspires my peers and other aspirants, particularly my fellow international students, to keep believing in their CPA dreams and passions, no matter how difficult the journey may feel at times.

What achievement or contribution are you most proud of so far?

One achievement I am most proud of so far is being elected as a Student Director at SAIT Students’ Association. This role has given me the opportunity and platform to genuinely represent and amplify student voices across different levels of government in Canada. Being able to advocate for students and push for stronger support systems, better resources, and an even higher quality of education has been incredibly meaningful to me. Knowing that my work can help create real, positive change for current and future students makes this experience especially fulfilling and something I am deeply proud of.

What’s something you’ve learned about yourself through your academic journey so far?

Through my academic journey, I’ve learned that I don’t have to do everything alone. Before, I used to carry all the pressure from school, work, and life by myself—perhaps because I’m an only child—and over time, that took a heavy toll on me. I believed that handling everything on my own was a sign of strength.

Now, I’ve come to realize that true strength also comes from allowing yourself to lean on others. I have an incredible support system in my friends, peers, and classmates, along with so many valuable resources available at SAIT and throughout Calgary. Learning to ask for help and accept support has not only eased the pressure, but has also made my academic journey more meaningful, balanced, and fulfilling.

Capitalize and CPA Alberta are proud to introduce the 2026 class of Capitalize Campus Stars. The Campus Stars program recognizes amazing Alberta post-secondary students who are dreaming of one day becoming CPAs. Learn more about the whole 2026 class!