Vishal Hareshkumar Vekaria

Vishal Hareshkumar Vekaria knew since he was a teenager that he wanted to become an accountant and get his designation, and he eventually decided Canada was where he wanted to do that. As a bonus, he says moving so far from his home of Kenya has helped him transform over these last three years.

“Going out, living independently, handling school, handling part-time work, volunteering—that all has transformed me from the boy I was to the man I have now become,” says Vishal. “When I compare myself to who I was back then, I’m a really changed person.”

And Vishal has certainly learned how to balance a number of different obligations. He maintains very high grades in his courses (his current priority!), he dedicates Saturdays to his commitments with the International Swaminarayan Satsang Organization of Edmonton, he volunteers with various organizations including the tax clinics on his campus, and he even tutors his fellow students for a few hours each week!

“I try to involve myself as much as I can,” Vishal says. “I prioritize my studies, but then whenever I have free time, I use it for better causes.”

Who inspires Vishal?

His parents. “My dad came from a small village in India and built his business from scratch in Kenya for me to pursue an education. He made sacrifices so I could live a decent life,” says Vishal. “And my mom gave me a solid foundation: she showed me what true hard work and work ethic is.”

What is Vishal’s time management advice?

It’s all about prioritizing! Plan out your priorities and block off time and fit other activities around it.

Q&A with Vishal Hareshkumar Vekaria

Why do you want to become a CPA?

Being a CPA will provide me with greater job variety as I can essentially work in any industry I want. As a CPA, I can have considerable flexibility in my career, and I can also explore many opportunities for travel due to an increasingly globalized world. Last but not least, it’s one of the most respected designations worldwide.

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

It means that my work is being recognized and appreciated, which motivates me to do great things, not for myself but the people and society around me. Recognition is rewarding and will help me grow and inspire others to do the same, generating a multiplier effect that would be effective in the long run for future generations.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Hustler, enthusiastic, and confident.

Capitalize and CPA Alberta are proud to announce the 2022 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 entire 2022 class!