Thought Leadership, Research & CPA Spotlights

Emerging Leader Award

Recognize and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of the brightest CPAs under 35.

The Emerging Leader Award celebrates the most exceptional young members of CPA Ontario under 35 as leaders in their companies, communities and industries. Award recipients have a chance to amplify the impact they have made to an even larger community of respected colleagues and peers. Do you know a young, innovative professional who is shaping the future? Nominate yourself or a colleague today.

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Nominations close: August 31, 2025

Recipients notified: November 2025

Emerging Leader celebration: March 2026

Why Become an Emerging Leader?

Influence: Inspire new and aspiring CPAs and help shape the future of CPA Ontario and how we support and engage with our members.
Networking: Connect with other trailblazing CPAs by joining a diverse network of past recipients.
Elevate: Build your personal and professional brand through speaking engagements, networking opportunities and spotlights shared across CPA Ontario digital platforms.
Recognition: Be celebrated by peers and colleagues as a young CPA innovating and leading change in the profession and your community.

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Nominee Requirements

To be eligible for this award, nominees must:

Be an active member of CPA Ontario in good standing.
Be under the age of 35 on the nomination deadline.
Have been registered with CPA Ontario for at least one year in the last 12 months and have made significant contributions in Ontario.
Have demonstrated significant contributions in innovation, impact, and social responsibility.
Not be an employee of CPA Ontario, a member of the Selection Committee or Emerging Leaders Leadership Team.

Nominations must:

Include one (1) recommendation letter from a CPA Ontario member who has known the nominee professionally for a minimum of two years.
Include one (1) additional professional recommendation letter, not required to be from a member of CPA Ontario.
Demonstrate, with examples, how the nominee has met the criteria.
Not be submitted by a CPA Ontario employee, a relative of the nominee or a current member of the Emerging Leaders Leadership Team or Selection Committee.

Self-nominations must:

Include two (2) recommendation letters from CPA Ontario members who have known the nominee professionally for a minimum of two years.
Include one (1) additional professional recommendation letter, not required to be from a member of CPA Ontario (OPTIONAL).
Demonstrate, with examples, how the nominee has met the criteria.
Not be submitted by a CPA Ontario employee, active member of the Emerging Leaders Leadership Team or Selection Committee.

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Please note: Recommendation letters may not be provided by employees of CPA Ontario, relatives of the nominee or active members of the Emerging Leaders Leadership Team or Selection Committee.