I am a CPA

February is Black History Month—a month to commemorate and celebrate the contributions of Black people. It’s also an opportunity for people to deepen their knowledge and understanding of not only Black history, but the present experiences of Black people.

In honour of Black History Month, five Black CPAs shared their experiences through the #IAmACPA social media campaign. The campaign’s goal was simple: amplify the voices of Black CPAs as they share their experiences in the professional world.

The CPA profession has progressed in many ways since its inception, but Black CPAs are still underrepresented in the profession, and this lack of representation leads to a lack of visibility. The #IAmACPA campaign showed that Black professionals do hold a CPA designation, and their contributions and expertise are integral to the growth and success of the profession.

The following CPAs are just a snapshot of the multitude of experiences that Black CPAs have in the profession. Be inspired to learn and take action—now and in the future—in support of your Black peers in your personal and professional lives. 

Kemi Awoniyi Ige CPA, CGA

Senior Financial Analyst, Canlin Energy

“I come from culture where preparing young girls and women for successful careers is not a priority. This has made me develop the ability to self-teach while highlighting my achievements. I had to develop a go-getter mindset because I knew that if I wanted something, it wouldn’t come easy. Today, I am a successful problem solver and my own cheerleader—my own motivator.

“I look forward to breaking barriers by being a pioneer in my industry, thereby opening doors for future Black CPAs. Representation is important; if seeing a Black woman in the workforce can inspire young Black girls to aspire for a position like mine, then that impact is important.

“I am a trailblazer, role model, and a lady boss; I am a CPA.” 

Ayanfe O. CPA, CA

“As a hiring manager, I value the depth and breadth that comes from diverse backgrounds and experience. In the past, my foreign name has kept me from getting job interviews despite only possessing Canadian experience. It’s frustrating and disheartening to deal with, and I know internationally-trained professionals have faced even bigger barriers. I hope to see less bias in the recruitment process in the future. 

“One motto that influences my work is, ‘Always leave things better than you found them.’ I not only want to succeed personally but also pave the way for people coming behind me.

“I am a leader and mentor committed to continuous improvement and helping those around me; I am a CPA.”

Abidemi Aremu CPA, CGA

Principal Consultant/Independent Broker at Alphaspring Financial Inc.

“I believe I have a unique background and experiences. My first degree was in accounting, and I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in Africa, Europe, and now as a CPA in Canada. In the past, I have had challenges accessing small to medium companies on a few occasions due to cultural differences. 

“As a person of colour, my approach has always been to see myself first as a professional accountant responsible for delivering quality work to any organization I may be engaged with. Then, I allow my value-added to speak on my behalf.

“The pandemic forced the need for me to diversify and get additional certification to start a financial consulting and insurance brokerage firm. The consulting and brokerage firm is my little contribution to diversifying the Alberta economy and providing access to future CPAs.

“I am a leader and an enabler; I am a CPA.”

Sandra Ryan Robinson CPA, CA

Senior Manager, Controller, Pembina Pipeline Corp.

“Regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or other differences, I believe that hard work, constructive mentoring relationships, and a strong network are important to professional success. However, as a Black woman, I have felt that I need to work harder to achieve success. In addition, as a person of immigrant descent with a single mom who made significant sacrifices to ensure a better quality of life for her family, I’m driven to work harder. 

“I am blessed to be practicing in a profession where I genuinely enjoy the work I do. I believe my background allows for a different perspective to available issues and opportunities—there’s strength in diversity!

“I am a wife, mother, leader, and mentor who collaborates to break down barriers and excel; I am a CPA.”

Kemi Kufuor-Boakye CPA, CA

Director, Resource Planning, University of Alberta

“I am of Nigerian descent and that always drives ways in which I approach my work. I always strive for excellence in everything I do. Sometimes I know that the reason I am being treated poorly by a client has everything to do with the colour of my skin and not having the leadership support to navigate the uncomfortable situation.

“Being a Black CPA means I have a seat at the table in a profession in which Black people are significantly underrepresented. When issues that impact Black people are discussed, it is important for me to be that voice for people who may not have a chance to speak out on issues that affect them in the professional world.

“I am focused; I am making space; I am a CPA.”