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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 CPA who is shaping the future? Submit your nomination today!

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Why Become an Emerging Leader?

  • Recognition: Attend a celebratory cocktail reception in your honour in Toronto in February 2025.
  • Elevate: Opportunities to participate as a speaker and ambassador in special events, conferences and recruitment activities.
  • Networking: Connect with other trailblazing CPAs through a strong alumni network of past recipients.
  • Personal Brand: You will be profiled across CPA Ontario digital platforms and marketing campaigns as an exceptional Emerging Leader in the profession.
  • Exclusive Access: Receive select invitations to exclusive events and initiatives.

Emerging Leader Award recipients

Get introduced to our past award recipients. Each recipient of the CPA Ontario Emerging Leader Award receives a congratulatory package, including an award that recognizes their accomplishments and invitations to Emerging Leader special events.
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Nominees must:

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

Nominators must:

  • Have known the nominee professionally for a minimum of two years and are not required to be a member of CPA Ontario
  • If the nominator is not a member of CPA Ontario, a letter of reference from a CPA Ontario member must also be included.
  • Provide a letter of recommendation
  • Demonstrate, with examples, how the nominee has met the criteria
  • If the nominator is not a member of CPA Ontario and is successful, an endorsement from a CPA Ontario member will be required.
Emerging Leader Award recipients and unsuccessful nominees will be contacted directly by the Member Experience department. If you have any questions about the award or the nomination process, please email our team.