Sinead Donovan reflects on hosting the Difference Makers Discuss webinar series, sharing powerful highlights from conversations with remarkable professionals who've made significant impacts beyond chartered accountancy. These inspiring individuals demonstrate how determination, education, and purpose can transform lives and influence positive change across society. • Thembeke Maseko shares how her grandfather ingeniously motivated her education by having her teach him what she learned, instillin...
Jun 05, 2025•20 min•Season 6Ep. 7
In this episode, Chair of Chartered Accountants Worldwide and CEO of CA ANZ, Ainslie van Onselen is joined by Alex Russell, Associate Director at Ipsos Corporate Reputation, unpack the findings of the inaugural global AI research study conducted by CAW in collaboration with IPSOS UK. Artificial intelligence isn't just changing accounting—it's redefining what it means to be a chartered accountant. We've partnered with Ipsos UK to conduct the first global benchmarking study on AI in accountancy, s...
Apr 24, 2025•29 min•Season 6Ep. 6
In this special episode of Difference Makers Discuss Ainslie Van Onselen, Chair Chartered Accountants Worldwide & CEO CA ANZ, meets Carmine Di Noia, Director for Financial and Enterprise Affairs at the OECD. In this conversation Carmine sheds light on how finance professionals can tackle critical issues like the climate crisis and digital transformation, ultimately shaping cleaner, stronger economies. We explore the OECD's mission and its collaborations with the G20 and IMF, aiming to promot...
Apr 03, 2025•34 min•Season 6Ep. 5
Discover the remarkable journey of Lavanya Ramanujan, an accountant at Google, who defied expectations by turning an unexpected leap into the field of accounting into a fulfilling career intertwined with her passion for sustainability. Lavanya shares her insights on the profound impact of skills-based volunteering and advisory roles, particularly with the Ground Up Initiative in Singapore. Her story is a testament to the power of community involvement and purpose-driven work, as she recounts how...
Feb 21, 2025•15 min
What if you held the key to transforming your community, one person at a time? Join us as we hear from Senzo Ndlangamandla, the inspiring head of the Department of Accounting Sciences at Walter Sisulu University. Senzo's journey from a hopeful auditor to an award-winning chartered accountant is a testament to the power of mentorship and quality education. He credits his high school teacher for setting him on a path that balances professional excellence with community service. Senzo's commitment ...
Feb 20, 2025•9 min
Evan O'Donnell's journey from a math enthusiast to a passionate advocate for accounting and sustainability is nothing short of inspiring. Embark on this episode as we unravel Evan's path to becoming a chartered accountant, a voyage ignited by an enlightening experience with an accounting teacher in secondary school and nurtured through his education at University College Cork. Evan's professional growth took root at PwC Ireland, where beyond honing his accounting skills, he became a mentor for a...
Feb 20, 2025•11 min
Eryn Paterson, an inspiring Audit Assistant Manager at KPMG, unravels her path from a budding interest in business to becoming a chartered accountant in this episode. Listeners gain insight into how a supportive teacher and her studies at the University of Glasgow fueled her ambition, leading to a career at KPMG. Eryn's journey doesn't just stop at professional achievements; her dedication to promoting social mobility within the industry shines through as she mentors students from lower socioeco...
Feb 20, 2025•10 min
Unlock the keys to resilience and well-being in the accountancy profession with this special episode of Difference Makers Discuss. This episode is hosted by Dee France of Chartered Accountants Ireland's CA Support. In this episode we reveal the results of a groundbreaking global report with our esteemed guests, Brad Hook and Declan Scott of The Resilience Institute. With insights gathered from nearly 700 chartered accountants, we explore how curiosity, altruism, and creativity serve as the backb...
Jan 30, 2025•42 min•Season 6Ep. 4
Explore the fascinating journey of Tinashe Kamangira, a trailblazer in the accounting world, who takes us from his roots in Zimbabwe to a thriving career in Perth, Australia. As the outgoing President of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) and a Director at Deloitte, Tinashe offers a unique perspective on leadership and the cultural transitions that shaped his path. He shares anecdotes about the golden era of his upbringing and the pivotal role sports and university life pla...
Dec 12, 2024•35 min•Season 6Ep. 3
Meet Michelle Shuttleworth, a trailblazer in finance and a passionate advocate for purpose-driven work. From her beginnings at PwC to her dynamic roles at Virgin Entertainment and Burberry, Michelle's journey is nothing short of inspiring. She shares candid stories of her transition from corporate to creative environments, including memorable encounters with influential figures like Richard Branson. Her experiences highlight the importance of adaptability and passion in carving out a unique path...
Nov 14, 2024•46 min•Season 6Ep. 2
What if the adversities you faced could become the foundation for your success? This episode features Thembeka Maseko, head of finance and value management at Standard Bank personal and private banking, and a non-executive director at Standard Trust. Raised by her grandparents in Cape Town's informal settlements after being abandoned by her parents, Thambeka's journey is a compelling testament to resilience and the transformative power of education. Listen as she shares how her grandfather's unw...
Oct 10, 2024•46 min•Season 6Ep. 1
Have you ever wondered how the accounting profession can drive global sustainability? In this special edition of Difference Makers Discuss Live, join us for a fascinating conversation between Ainslie van Onselen, Chair of CAW & CEO of CA ANZ, and Jessica Fries, Executive Chair of A4S and a leading authority in sustainability and integrated reporting. Jessica offers a compelling look at the transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability practices, driven by global standards like those ...
Aug 22, 2024•32 min•Season 5Ep. 14
Unlock the limitless possibilities of a career in Chartered Accountancy with insights from our Young Difference Maker, and Chartered Accountants Ireland member, Peter Gillen. Peter takes us on his journey from a high school math enthusiast to prestigious roles at PwC in Dublin and Boston, and later to transformative work in sustainability consulting at Grant Thornton and AIB. Learn how his ACA qualification served as a global passport, allowing him to work internationally while aligning his care...
Jun 07, 2024•11 min•Season 5Ep. 13
Embark on a voyage of discovery with Kudzai Zendara, a beacon of wisdom from Chartered Accountant Scotland, who graciously shares the colorful tapestry of his life and career in our latest episode. From the rich cultural heritage of the UK and Zimbabwe to the bustling corporate corridors of PwC London and Standard Chartered Bank, Kudzai's narrative is a testament to the vibrancy of diversity in the accounting world. He peels back the layers of his journey, offering an intimate glimpse into the f...
Jun 06, 2024•34 min•Season 5Ep. 12
Have you ever met someone whose career trajectory embodies both resilience and a dedication to positive societal impact? Meet Mishka Hajee, a South African Chartered Accountant whose story isn't just about climbing the professional ladder; it's a narrative woven with integrity, strategic innovation, and a deep commitment to uplifting her community. From childhood dreams guided by community influence and mentorship, to the rigorous academic and professional journey of earning a CA(SA) designation...
May 06, 2024•9 min•Season 5Ep. 11
Meet Asma Shahbaz, a Chartered Accountant from Pakistan who's breaking barriers and transforming the financial landscape. In a candid conversation, Asma shares her remarkable journey from a determined accounting student to a respected professional in process governance and business ops risk at Mashreq Bank. Discover the pivotal role that family support and a strong sense of self-belief have played in her climb to success. From her foundational experiences with Standard Chartered Bank and Habib B...
May 02, 2024•34 min•Season 5Ep. 10
Imagine the career you thought you wanted taking an unexpected turn, leading you to uncharted territories that not only redefine your future but also impact thousands of lives. That's the journey Mathabo took, trading potential scrubs for financial statements, and we get an insider's look at her ascent to a pivotal role in accountancy. From Soweto to the chairperson of investments at Manowakas Providence Fund, Mathabo tells us of the grandmotherly wisdom and a fortuitous newspaper article that s...
Mar 28, 2024•12 min•Season 5Ep. 9
Embark on a journey with Naomi Walsh, the trailblazing Vice President of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, as she unveils her extraordinary ascent in the accounting world. Her story, a testament to tenacity and ambition, begins in regional Tasmania and ascends to international heights, with a career-defining role in the UK working on the Olympics. Naomi's candid revelations about overcoming gender bias, fostering confidence, and the power of global experiences provide a treasure t...
Mar 26, 2024•40 min•Season 5Ep. 8
From the comforting confines of Shelcross to the empowering platform of Boss Babes of South Africa, Kovini Moodley's journey is one rich with insights and heart. In a candid conversation, Kovini bares the soul of her transformative path, intertwining tales of mentorship's might and the vibrant prospects within the world of Chartered Accountancy. As we mark the joyous arrival of a newborn in our community, Kovini's narrative reminds us of the profound impact that support systems have on both pers...
Feb 29, 2024•35 min•Season 5Ep. 8
When Liam Guthrie stepped onto the university campus, he was stepping into uncharted territory for his family. His journey from a numbers enthusiast to a strategic thinker in the accountancy world is nothing short of inspiring. On our latest episode, Liam, who shattered the mold of a traditional accountant, shares how his role transcends mere number crunching and evolves into the art of communicating financial intricacies to business leaders. This conversation is for anyone who believes that the...
Feb 21, 2024•13 min•Season 5Ep. 7
A graduate in Engineering from Nanyang Technological University, Jeremy defied norms by entering the accountancy profession. His unique journey breaks down barriers and aims to inspire aspiring professionals to pursue unconventional paths. Listen and gain insights into Jeremy’s firsthand experiences in external assurance services; explore the intersections of sustainability, technology, and defence in accounting, and discover how an engineering background can lead to a successful career in accou...
Jan 30, 2024•8 min•Season 5Ep. 5
In this episode, we have the pleasure of hearing from Liswaniso Namatama, a remarkable individual who not only excels in his professional life but also has a deep passion for empowering others through education. Liswaniso utilizes his strong ethical values and leadership skills to lead audit projects in his workplace. His dedication to his work is evident, and he is often seen as a wise and experienced individual despite his young age. However, Liswaniso's interests extend far beyond his work as...
Jan 17, 2024•8 min•Season 5Ep. 4
Ever wondered why accountants are at the forefront of sustainability measures? This enlightening conversation with Maria Teo, a respected member of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants, will give you all the knowledge you need. Maria shares her personal journey, starting from her foundational auditing background through to her exciting foray into sustainability. This episode isn't just about Maria's career though, she provides a rare insight into the role of accountants in aiding com...
Jan 11, 2024•36 min•Season 5Ep. 3
Ever thought of accountants as life-savers? You will be surprised by today's guest, Veronica Beilby, a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, who strongly believes that accountants too can make a significant difference in society. Veronica invites us into her unusual journey of becoming a Chartered Accountant, and how she’s been able to impact people's lives positively with her work. She brings to light the crucial role accountants played during the COVID-19 pandemic, allevia...
Dec 11, 2023•12 min•Season 5Ep. 3
Ever wonder what truly makes an accountant tick? In our latest episode, we sit down with the formidable Abigail Foster, an ACA Chartered Accountant who has used her credentials to explore a dynamic and fulfilling career in the accounting field. Abigail's journey from a math-focused student to a successful entrepreneur with a mission to redefine accountancy stereotypes, serves as the perfect narrative to challenge your preconceived notions about accountants. From resilience to people skills, Abig...
Dec 04, 2023•9 min•Season 5Ep. 2
Ever wondered what it's like to step into a new role just before a global crisis strikes? Tune in as we chat with Caroline Sherry, the CFO of Hostelworld PLC, who did just that. Embarking on her role as CFO just before the pandemic hit, Caroline navigates us through her intriguing journey, revealing how she tackled the unique challenges this situation presented. Despite having a background in science, Caroline shares why she chose to pursue accountancy and how her career path was impacted by the...
Nov 27, 2023•36 min•Season 5Ep. 1
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the Chartered Accountancy profession. The global qualitative and quantitative research study of over 3500 members across 8 countries identifies the barriers ambitious women are facing which prevent them reaching their true potential. In this webinar we revealed and debated the survey findings and delved into the opportunities and challenges for w...
Apr 27, 2023•12 min•Season 4Ep. 6
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the Chartered Accountancy profession. The global qualitative and quantitative research study of over 3500 members across 8 countries identifies the barriers ambitious women are facing which prevent them reaching their true potential. In this webinar we revealed and debated the survey findings and delved into the opportunities and challenges for w...
Apr 27, 2023•7 min•Season 4Ep. 5
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the Chartered Accountancy profession. The global qualitative and quantitative research study of over 3500 members across 8 countries identifies the barriers ambitious women are facing which prevent them reaching their true potential. In this webinar we revealed and debated the survey findings and delved into the opportunities and challenges for w...
Apr 27, 2023•12 min•Season 4Ep. 4
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the Chartered Accountancy profession. The global qualitative and quantitative research study of over 3500 members across 8 countries identifies the barriers ambitious women are facing which prevent them reaching their true potential. In this webinar we revealed and debated the survey findings and delved into the opportunities and challenges for w...
Apr 27, 2023•5 min•Season 4Ep. 3
