Early Achievement Award

Chris Adams CPA

Chris began his career at Mowbrey Gil LLP in 2013, shortly after achieving his CPA designation. He is now a Senior Manager, where he manages a diverse client base and is known for his friendly demeanor. Chris excels at simplifying complex tax concepts, creating a comfortable environment for clients, and fostering long-term relationships. Demonstrating his expertise, he was instrumental in the rapid expansion of Popeyes Louisiana Chicken into Canada, particularly valuable in financial management and operational controls during a rapid expansion phase.

Chris is dedicated to mentorship and education within the firm, playing a central role in developing and delivering the firm’s tax training seminars aimed at emerging tax professionals.

His leadership extends beyond internal training—Chris has also made significant contributions through his involvement with the Canadian Tax Foundation. He co-authored and presented a paper on Alternative Minimum Tax at their Prairie Provinces Tax Conference, further establishing himself as a thought leader in the tax community.

In the community, Chris has contributed to the CPA Volunteer Income Tax Preparation program since 2013, expanding services to low-income seniors. He also serves as treasurer for the Edmonton Youth Justice Committee Society, contributing to the organization’s financial sustainability and securing a key federal grant.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
I chose the CPA designation because it is the gold standard in the accounting and finance industry in this country. It provides extensive knowledge in financial reporting, taxation, audit, and strategic management. I am passionate about understanding the financial health of businesses and helping them make informed decisions. The CPA designation not only enhances my technical expertise but also strengthens my leadership and analytical skills—both crucial for long-term career growth. Additionally, its global recognition and career flexibility provide opportunities to work across industries and even internationally.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
Obtaining my CPA designation has been a transformative experience, both professionally and personally. The rigorous process strengthened my technical expertise and strategic decision-making abilities while enhancing my ability to analyze complex data and provide meaningful insights. Beyond technical skills, the CPA designation has opened doors to new career opportunities, allowing me the flexibility to work across industries and take on leadership roles. It has also built my confidence in almost every aspect of my personal life. More than just a certification, being a CPA has shaped me into a more strategic thinker, a trusted advisor, and a lifelong learner. I am a completely different person because of the CPA designation.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Volunteering is incredibly rewarding because it allows me to make a meaningful impact in my community while also growing personally. Seeing the positive difference my efforts make—whether helping individuals directly or contributing to a larger cause—gives me a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. It’s also an opportunity to develop new skills, connect with diverse groups of people, and gain a broader perspective on different challenges. More than anything, volunteering allows me to utilize my CPA designation and give back in ways others may not be able to.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
In our profession, every day can be challenging, but also rewarding, which is why these experiences are valuable in the long run.

Why is it important for you to give back?
Giving back is important because it strengthens communities, creates opportunities for those in need, and fosters a culture of growth and support. More importantly, it allows me to use my success to return the favour or pay forward the opportunities and support provided to me by others in my past.

What values do you live by?
The core values I strive to live by are learning, continuous growth, respect, and accountability. I don’t consider myself to ever be the smartest person in the room, but I damn well better be one of the hardest workers.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
My wife and family have been instrumental in my success. In addition, certain mentors at my firm played a significant role. They taught me to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and stay committed to my goals. Their guidance helped me overcome obstacles and achieve success.

Note of thanks
Sarah Adams, tonight was a special night, and I wouldn’t be here without you. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in me have meant more than words can express. Through every challenge, late night, and big decision, you’ve been my rock—reminding me of my strengths and pushing me to be my best. I am beyond grateful. Love you.

Dami Ajibade CPA

Damilola has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment in the accounting profession and her community since joining KPMG Canada in 2018. As a Senior Manager specializing in International Tax, Damilola’s expertise and adaptability have been instrumental in supporting her colleagues, clients, and the broader community. Damilola’s efforts to foster inclusivity and professional excellence enrich both her community and the CPA profession. She leads the Black Professional Network at KPMG, implementing mentorship programs and cultural awareness events to foster professional growth and inclusivity. Her work with that initiative earned her a 2023 & 2024 KPMG Impact Award.

Her dedication extends beyond KPMG. In 2024, Damilola became a founding member of the Canadian Association of Black CPAs, where she has worked to break down barriers for Black professionals in the field. As Vice President of Finance for the Black Physicians Association of Alberta, she oversees financial strategies supporting Black healthcare professionals. Her involvement in the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) of Calgary Economic Development since 2020 has empowered SMEs to expand internationally by providing critical tax guidance. Additionally, Damilola is deeply engaged in community development. She co-hosted a significant Black networking event in Calgary and organized a national Black History Month event with over 800 participants.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
The CPA designation is a highly respected designation and has provided me with options for career advancement, a higher earning potential, job security, and a path into a career with continuous learning and growth.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
The CPA designation is beyond a credential for me; it has become a tool that has helped me combine my technical skills with leadership and advocacy that make a lasting impact in both businesses and the community. It has opened doors for networking with like-minded individuals, leading to roles such as treasurer at my church, founding member of the Canadian Association of Black CPAs, and VP of Finance for the Black Physicians Association of Alberta. As the leader of the KPMG Calgary Black Professional Network, I strive to ensure that Black representation is visible during student recruitment, helping to empower Black students and affirm their presence in the field.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Volunteering brings me immense joy and fulfillment. It’s a privilege to give back to the community and empower others, knowing that they, too, may one day have the opportunity to contribute and continue the cycle of support. The connections and positive impact we create together make the experience even more rewarding.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
One of my most challenging experiences was delivering a project for Black minorities under tight constraints, both in time and resources. With limited team support and a demanding job, it would have been easy to cancel or postpone the event. However, doing so would have deprived many Black minorities of valuable opportunities. Motivated by the potential impact, I persevered despite the obstacles. The experience was invaluable, as the successful outcome reaffirmed the significance of our efforts. Achieving a goal that creates opportunities for Black minorities makes every challenge worthwhile, reinforcing my commitment to these initiatives.

Why is it important for you to give back?
Giving back is important to me as it aligns with my values. I often look back fondly and remember those who freely gave up their time in various capacities; to mentor and advocate for me. It has made a lasting impact on my life. Giving back challenges me to step out of my comfort zone and gain a broader perspective on issues that affect others beyond my point of view. The results have been humbling to me.

What values do you live by?
Giving back is very important to me. Having integrity, being accountable, empowering underrepresented groups, and ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued in professional and community settings, are values I live by.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
As a practicing Christian who has faced significant personal challenges, I must acknowledge that God has been instrumental in my success. I believe He granted me the grace and strength I needed to keep persevering on my lowest days, and the favour I have received in the eyes of others. I am also thankful to KPMG, which has been the only firm I have worked with across the UK and Canada, for giving me the opportunity and a cover under which I have been able to develop my skills. Finally, my support system has been instrumental in empowering me to grow and take up space in the community.

Note of thanks
Thank you to Shawn Brade (KPMG LLP) for opening the doors to me that eventually led me here; to Dr. Ako and Chioma Ufodike, who have been great mentors; and to my nuclear and extended family, most especially my children, Adeoluwa and Dara, for being my greatest inspiration.

Tiffany Chow CPA, CA

Tiffany’s promotion to partner at EY in 2024 underscores her exceptional expertise and leadership. A key factor in her success has been her dedication to mentorship and fostering inclusiveness, which has positively impacted EY’s culture and professional practices.

As the National Chapter Lead of the EY Canada Pan-Asian Professional Network (PAPN), Tiffany significantly impacted the firm’s diversity initiatives. Under her leadership, PAPN's membership grew by 587% in the 2023 fiscal year. She pioneered mentorship programs and networking events, fostering professional growth and cultural integration. A standout initiative was connecting 44 emerging Pan-Asian professionals with senior leaders at EY, facilitating career advancement and creating a sense of belonging. She continues her involvement with EY's PAPN as the Executive Sponsor for the National Steering Committee.

Tiffany’s dedication to mentorship extends to CPA and Chartered Business Valuator (CBV) candidates, guiding them through exams and providing professional development. Her support has been instrumental in helping mentees navigate the complexities of the profession with confidence.

In addition to her professional achievements, Tiffany has made lasting contributions to the Edmonton Women's Shelter (WIN House), serving as Treasurer and Board Member from 2015 to 2022. She played a pivotal role in budgeting, fundraising, and transitioning the Executive Director. Tiffany continues her support of WIN House through the Finance Committee and the Women’s Giving Circle. She also is deeply involved in the community, volunteering at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Edmonton Women in Finance, and her local women’s golf league.

Tiffany’s leadership and commitment to both her profession and community exemplify the values of empathy, integrity, and inclusion.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
I chose the designation the opportunities it could open for me. When I graduated from university, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted, but I knew I wanted top-notch training and education—a way to cultivate skills and knowledge so I would have choices as I embarked on what I hoped would be a long career journey. The designation meant being constantly surrounded by highly motivated, intelligent, and inspiring professionals who challenge each other daily, whether technically, professionally, or personally. Because of this, I went on to pursue my Chartered Business Valuator designation and haven’t looked back since.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
Becoming a CPA has been an extraordinary journey filled with unique challenges and rewarding experiences. It began with CASB and the UFE, where I met aspiring accountants who have become my support system and lifelong friends. Late-night audits tested my determination and sharpened my skills. Discussing career options within my firm opened doors to new opportunities, led me to valuations, and paved my path to partnership, connecting me with a diverse group of professionals. Seeing various businesses showcased how ideas transform into thriving enterprises, which has been invaluable. This journey emphasized hard work, perseverance, and continuous learning, allowing me to make a tangible impact on my community.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Volunteering allows me to interact with a wide range of individuals, significantly expanding my perspective. I appreciate that it enables me to apply my technical skills in different contexts, learn new abilities, assist others, and engage with diverse communities beyond the corporate world. I volunteer at WIN House, the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, and the Pan Asian Professional Network at EY. Through these experiences, I advocate for women fleeing domestic violence who need safe housing, support the arts and music scene in Edmonton, and empower, mentor and champion my Pan-Asian Colleagues at EY. Each experience is deeply rewarding and enriches my life in countless ways.

What was the most challenging experience you encountered in serving others and why was it valuable?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is managing my time. As a recovering “yes” person, I’ve often found myself in too many commitments. Unfortunately, time is not on my side in a world that constantly tells us to “girlboss,” serve others, work out, take time for mental health, eat healthy, and be a good daughter, friend, and colleague (and for some, a mother), all while getting seven hours of sleep a day and making time for fun! But the wonderful thing about serving others is that you meet people who share a passion for giving back. I've come to see the community as a group of people supporting one another. Knowing this, I have learned to ask for help when I need it and be kind when others need support.

Why is it important for you to give back?
Giving back has always been important to me because I know I wouldn’t be where I am without the support of others. Someone took the time and chance to support me, and now I want to empower those around me to achieve their goals—whether it's safe housing, career advancement, or discovering a new artist who inspires them. If we have the means to help others, we absolutely should. Giving back not only supports those in need but also strengthens our society, creating unity and collective well-being, and making our community a better place for everyone.

What values do you live by?
I value kindness, empathy, and cooperation, and believe in making decisions as a team. My professional journey, including earning my CPA designation and becoming a partner at EY, reflects my commitment to mentoring and continuous improvement. I define success as achieving goals together and sharing experiences. I am passionate about supporting the Edmonton community through the WIN House and the Edmonton Folk Music Festival. Ultimately, I want to be remembered as someone who cared deeply, supported others, and fostered meaningful relationships.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
They say it takes a village, and my success is largely due to the people around me. My peers have continually challenged my professional goals, pushing me to strive for excellence. Dayton Marit, my mentor and sponsor, has provided invaluable insights and strategies, dedicating countless hours to mentoring me. I'm grateful for his constructive feedback and unwavering support, which have been crucial to my growth. My family, who values hard work, has consistently supported me. Their belief in my abilities has given me the strength to persevere. Without these remarkable individuals, I wouldn't be where I am today. Their presence has made my journey easier and more meaningful.

Note of thanks
I am profoundly grateful to my wonderful family for their unwavering belief in me, to Dayton Marit for being an incredible mentor and guide, and to my dear friends for their endless support and encouragement. This achievement is a testament to your love, guidance, and faith in me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Daniel Kozak CPA

Daniel’s journey reflects a strong commitment to service, mentorship, and professional excellence. Raised in a family devoted to education—his mother a teacher and his father a school principal—Daniel developed a deep foundation in leadership and community service, values that have shaped his personal and professional life.

After earning a Business Administration (Accounting) diploma from Lethbridge College and a Bachelor of Management in Accounting from the University of Lethbridge, Daniel focused on supporting Southern Alberta’s agricultural community. He has built strong relationships within the farming community, regularly participating in events such as Holstein 4H Shows and judging 4H speeches. His work extends to waterway conservation and agricultural financial practices, ensuring his clients receive expert advice.

Since joining MNP LLP in 2014 as an articling student, Daniel steadily advanced and earned his CPA designation in 2017. In June 2024, he achieved partner status—a rare accomplishment within 10 years of earning his designation. His leadership fosters mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth, particularly for aspiring CPAs.

Beyond his professional role, Daniel has mentored young men through his church, offering guidance and life skills. Through career and community involvement, Daniel has made a lasting impact on those around him.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
I chose the CPA designation for its recognition and stability, as well as an opportunity to serve and assist individuals from a financial perspective. My first exposure to the CPA designation came through my basketball coach in high school. This individual demonstrated that the CPA designation could provide stability, family balance, and the opportunity to be an active member of the community. Seeing what a CPA could be at that stage of my life guided me towards pursuing my education and ultimately achieving my CPA designation. As my career has progressed, the relationships I have built have led to many great experiences that continue to define and shape my career.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
I have the privilege of volunteering with local organizations and religious groups. Shaping young minds as they explore the possibilities and experiences life has to offer has been very rewarding. I work with a youth group whose members are navigating the trials of high school. At times these youth are fixated on the immediate challenges and social pressures. Often activities or conversations have presented opportunities to share my experiences, giving perspective and meaning. Seeing them understand the struggles and similarities has strengthened our relationships and allowed us to explore opportunities, helping them understand their true potential.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
My success is attributed to the support of my family and mentors. First and foremost, my spouse has been instrumental in pushing me toward personal and professional goals and achievements. She has listened, challenged me, and encouraged positive change as I continue to navigate the new opportunities. Secondly, I attribute my success to my mentors who saw opportunities and gave me a chance. They not only guided me but created opportunities for me to expand my knowledge and experience. They often placed me in uncomfortable situations that led to further growth. This defined and accelerated my career in many ways.

Note of thanks
“Thank you” cannot fully express the gratitude I feel for the love and support I have received in this achievement. I am thankful to my spouse for her sacrifice, patience, and love; my mother, for her unwavering support; and one of my mentors, Bruce Warkentin, for his enthusiasm and for continually challenging me to raise the bar.

Richard Lange CPA

Richard is an accomplished CPA with extensive experience in banking and finance. At the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), he has built a reputation for excellence, earning multiple awards for his leadership, collaboration, and ability to drive results. Recognized among the top 1% of RBC employees, Richard has managed large portfolios, led strategic initiatives, and fostered cross-functional collaboration. His commitment to mentorship and business development makes him a trusted advisor within the organization and the broader financial industry.

Beyond RBC, Richard has held leadership roles at HSBC and Servus Credit Union, where he demonstrated his expertise in financial analysis, risk management, and strategic planning. At Servus, he was honoured with the President’s Award of Excellence for his contributions to business growth and operational success.

In addition to his corporate achievements, Richard has been a dedicated volunteer with the Mustard Seed Foundation for over 20 years. In 2022, he joined its board as a member of the audit and finance committee, where he plays a key role in shaping strategy, strengthening governance, and ensuring financial stability. His long-standing commitment to community service reflects his passion for making a meaningful impact in the fight against homelessness and poverty.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
After completing an MBA specializing in finance, I felt that I needed more technical knowledge and skills to better understand my client's needs and provide them with the best advice possible. The CPA designation has allowed me to do just that.

How has earning your CPA designation and being a CPA impacted you?
The CPA designation provides me with immediate credibility because our clients know the rigours of obtaining such a prestigious designation.

Why is it important for you to give back?
Giving back is important because it’s not a level playing field and too many people are at a disadvantage. It's amazing what a small nudge or single hand-up can do to help someone on their way. By giving back, we remember our journeys to where we are today, which keeps us grounded and reminds us of what is truly important in life. Giving back is good for everyone: it's good for ourselves and it's good for others. Everyone has something to give.

Note of thanks
This award is a milestone in my career, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to so many who have mentored and guided me along the way, including my family, led by my wife, Sandra, who have always supported my goals and dreams. I’m also deeply grateful to RBC, which continues to recognize and encourage me and promote my success.

Ted Ritzen CPA, CA

From starting as a co-op student at KPMG in 2011 to earning his CPA designation in 2015 and becoming a partner in 2024, Ted’s career trajectory is nothing short of remarkable. His rapid rise is matched by his deep commitment to the profession, the tax community, and the next generation of CPAs. As a leader, he has mentored countless young professionals, shaping their careers through coaching and guidance. For the past four years, he has served as the learning and development leader for KPMG’s Edmonton and Regions West tax practice, spearheading tax technical training. Now a member of KPMG’s national learning and development leadership committee, Ted plays a key role in ensuring CPAs across Canada stay ahead of evolving tax regulations.

Beyond KPMG, Ted plays a key role in the Edmonton tax community. As a volunteer with the Canadian Tax Foundation’s Young Practitioners Group, he has organized seminars and networking opportunities to support young professionals. He also leads discussions with the Edmonton Tax Lawyers and Accountants’ Discussion Group, ensuring ongoing professional development and collaboration.

His dedication extends to broader community service through the Canadian Progress Club, where his financial stewardship has strengthened the Edmonton chapter and national organization. As national treasurer, he developed a best practices document that remains foundational to the organization’s financial operations.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
Instilled in me from a young age was the understanding that we are all part of something larger and that it is the responsibility of each of us to use the resources at our disposal to make meaningful change for the better in our communities. This extends to volunteerism and includes giving our time to create opportunities for others. Seeing the positive impact this can have on the lives of others within both the tax community and the larger community is both humbling and gratifying.

Why is it important for you to give back?
I am passionate about developing the next generation of leaders and fostering growth within our industry. Volunteering my time to promote learning and development activities is one way that I can give back to the tax community. It is very important to provide opportunities for CPAs at all stages of their careers to connect, review relevant technical topics, and engage in open discussions about the implications for our clients and the larger community.

Note of thanks
Thank you to my parents and family; my colleagues; and Francesca for supporting me always!

Andrew Rogan CPA, CA

Andrew is dedicated to shaping the future of the CPA profession through teaching, mentorship, and education. Passionate about empowering the next generation of CPAs, he has played a pivotal role in supporting new entrants to the profession and maintaining the rigour of the profession’s education process.

As an instructor at SAIT, Andrew’s engaging learning environment helped students grasp complex accounting concepts and apply them to real-world challenges. He has also mentored CPA candidates, guiding them through their competency requirements. His expertise extends to the CFE process, where he collaborated with CPA Canada on assessment guidelines, ensuring the exam maintains its high standards.

Beyond education, Andrew is a highly accomplished finance professional with a strong track record in financial analysis, strategic planning, and operational efficiency. He has led high-performing teams, managed complex projects, and driven innovation across various organizations.

His commitment to the community is equally impressive. Andrew has volunteered with Next Gen Men, the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA), P.L.A.Y., and the Arthritis Society. From steering nonprofits through financial challenges to advocating for arthritis research, his impact is profound.

With a rare combination of financial expertise, leadership, and service, Andrew is a true asset to the profession and his community.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
It’s rewarding to be able to support my community and give back to those who have provided me with so much.

Why is it important for you to give back?
I have been afforded a lot of privilege in my life and believe it's important to share the benefits rather than keep them to myself.

What values do you live by?
I live by the values of compassion and empathy.

Note of thanks
Thank you to my parents for always supporting me, my son for inspiring me, and my wife for believing in me.

Michael Stuart CPA

Michael exemplifies what it means to be an Alberta CPA, demonstrating excellence in his professional achievements and community contributions.

He began his career as an articling student at Deloitte LLP, providing accounting and tax services to private companies and their shareholders. His strong technical skills and ability to build meaningful relationships quickly led him to mentor junior staff and support the development of future CPAs.

Michael then pursued his Juris Doctor, leveraging his CPA background—particularly the work ethic and critical thinking skills it helped him develop—to achieve academic success. Graduating with distinction at the top of his class, he articled as a Lawyer at Felesky Flynn LLP, advising private companies on complex tax matters. His ability to integrate financial and legal perspectives made him a valuable resource for businesses navigating tax legislation.

Now, as Manager of Finance and Legal for a large cast iron manufacturing group, Michael applies his diverse skill set to improve financial reporting, support operational decision-making, and strengthen corporate governance.

Beyond his professional success, Michael is deeply committed to his community. He has served as Treasurer for the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers, co-founded a public policy advocacy group, and actively volunteers with CPA Alberta. His contributions continue to make a meaningful impact on both the profession and his community.

Why have you chosen the CPA designation?
In a word: Versatility. This designation has opened more doors than I can count, whether that be in public accounting, law, or industry. Even in just a few short years, my career has provided me with opportunities that I would have never thought possible when sitting in my accounting classes at the University of Alberta more than a decade ago. Tere’s sometimes a narrow perception of what it means to be an accountant, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The inherent draw of a career that is essentially a “choose your own adventure” book is something that makes me incredibly proud to be a member of this profession.

What about volunteering is rewarding for you?
I don’t think there’s a better way to learn about the great things going on in our community than to get involved in them. When I joined the Board of the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers, I introduced myself as “not Ukrainian and not a Dancer.” I’ve now been involved with the organization as a board member, donor, finance committee member, or wowed show attendee for more than five years. By simply getting involved and offering up the skill set that a CPA designation provides, I gained a new appreciation for the beautiful art Shumka creates and made some lifelong friends in the process. That’s rewarding.

Why is it important for you to give back?
Ironically, I think the CPA profession is somewhat unique simply because valuable mentorship isn’t unique in our community. There are countless CPAs who are willing to lend their time, expertise, and advice to newer members of the profession. I’ve benefited greatly from so many of those people and now try to pay that kindness forward as much as I can with future members of our profession. It's incredibly rewarding to connect with students and see their excitement about the profession grow as they learn about all the opportunities a CPA designation can provide.

Who or what has been instrumental in your success and why?
I have been so fortunate in my career to have worked with some truly inspirational mentors. To see how they do what they do, and how they make an impact, is something that has driven much of my success. I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for their example and guidance. The mentorship I benefitted from at Deloitte LLP and Felesky Flynn LLP over the years taught me to identify issues, solve problems, and communicate solutions; it's a universal skill set that I have taken forward and applied in my current role. To see those years of mentorship come together and put me in a place where I feel I can really add value to a business leaves me with an immense feeling of gratitude.

Note of thanks
First and foremost, thanks to my wife, Sneha and son, Callum for their unwavering support in all my endeavours. They are the reasons I do what I do every day. Thanks also to my parents and a number of important career mentors who have had an impact on me, including John Fuller, Rakiya Randhawa, Kristen Martin Hrabec, Bill Howden, and Matt McMillan.