Dear members,
In April, I had the honour of hosting a media luncheon. This event brought together representatives from prominent media outlets, providing an invaluable platform to share the Institute’s key focuses, initiatives, and achievements. The luncheon served as an opportunity to strengthen our relationship with the media and foster a better understanding of the vital role accountants play in driving economic growth and sustainability. We greatly appreciate the media’s support and coverage, which are instrumental in promoting a positive image of the accounting profession and raising awareness of our contributions to the public.
One of the key purposes of the event was to share the Institute’s key focuses in the coming year, which were defined in the Strategic Plan 2024. This comprehensive plan outlines our vision, goals, and strategies for the year ahead, setting a clear direction for the Institute to further the development of the accounting profession and contribute to the sustainable development of Hong Kong.
The plan reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of industry developments and embracing emerging opportunities and we have identified three key areas of focus that will drive our efforts in the coming year. Firstly, attracting top talent to foster the growth and development of the profession. Secondly, reinforcing our communication and engagement with members to promote a positive image of the profession and strengthen our member support for members’ professional and personal development. And finally, laying the foundations for Hong Kong’s sustainability journey, ensuring our contribution to a more sustainable future.
The government’s Vision Statement on Turning Obligations into Opportunities in Developing the Sustainability Disclosure Ecosystem in Hong Kong, issued in March, outlines the development of a comprehensive ecosystem for sustainability disclosure in Hong Kong. As the sustainability disclosure standard setter, the Institute is committed to playing a significant role within the government’s vision and capacity building. You can read more about our response in this issue of A Plus and learn about our role.
“The plan reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of industry developments and embracing emerging opportunities and we have identified three key areas of focus that will drive our efforts in the coming year.”
I also had the honour of taking part in the kick off ceremony for the 2024-25 Mentorship Programme. As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our Mentorship Programme, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the success of this initiative. Over the past decade, our programme has provided invaluable guidance, support, and inspiration to aspiring professionals, connecting almost 1,900 pairs of mentors and mentees from diverse backgrounds and strengthening the profession.
Three distinct pairs of mentors and mentees were interviewed in this issue. Their stories illustrate our commitment to fostering professional growth and development. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all mentors and mentees who have contributed to the programme’s success.
In addition to empowering members in their professional endeavours, the Institute is equally committed to supporting members’ well-being and fostering a sense of community. We hosted our first networking lunch, bringing together members from various sectors to exchange ideas and forge new connections. A barbeque gathering was also held for the first time, providing a relaxed atmosphere for members to unwind and strengthen their bonds. Furthermore, we celebrated the outstanding achievements of participants in the CPA Marathon Competition 2024 and AC Fun Run 2024 through a memorable prize presentation ceremony. These events not only promote a healthy work-life balance but also encourage camaraderie and a sense of belonging within our vibrant accounting community.
In this issue of A Plus, we have dedicated several articles to different aspects of talent cultivation for the profession. From the IFAC’s views on global accounting education, and nascent, less travelled career paths, to different perspectives on attracting and retaining talents in the profession. Whether you are an employer, an aspiring accountant, or anything in between, I hope you will feel inspired after reading this issue.
I encourage our members to stay connected and up-to-date with the Institute’s exhilarating events and news. If you haven’t yet, make sure you’re always in the know by following our social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn) and downloading the HKICPA Events app today!
Roy Leung
President
