Alliance of Black Women Accountants (ABWA) was proud to collaborate again with CalCPA in sending ten students and emerging professionals to the CalCPA Elevate: Women’s Leadership Forum. This year’s conference took place May 1st through May 2nd in Mountainview.
Celebrating the 2025 ABWA Recipients
Congratulations to the 2025 ABWA recipients: Onyinyechukwu Akametalu, Devan Cotton, Nyasha Davis, Ashley Gibson, Saida Hassan, Ashley Lett, Janiya Mathis, Sheria Murrell, Alyson Nishimura, and Rachel Roundtree.
Generous Support from Sponsors
With the help of amazing sponsors like Crowe LLP, GHJ, Holthouse Carlin & Van Trigt, Miller Kaplan, Moss Adams, Soren McAdams, and others, stipends were provided to cover event registration, travel, and lodging for recipients. The students took part in a competitive application process to be selected. This is ABWA’s fourth year participating in the Women’s Leadership Forum as an organization.
Inspiring Future Leaders
“The purpose of sending young aspiring accountants to this event is to show them what’s possible, inspire them and give them real exposure to relevant and important topics for women leaders in the profession,” said ABWA President Nefertiti Long. “Each year this event has always accomplished this goal but has also been critical for ABWA to establish visibility with leaders in the profession in addition to connecting with new partners to collaborate with, leading to more resources for our members.”
Keynote Insights and Student Reflections
Several ABWA board and general members also attended, including general member and keynote speaker Kimberly Ellison-Taylor. Her speech, “Leveraging Innovation, Technology, and Bold Leadership,” energized the audience and motivated attendees to aim high in their aspirations.
“I learned how to effectively integrate AI into my future career without letting it replace the value I bring as an accountant,” said Janiya Mathis, a Junior at Florida A&M. “This experience reinforced my decision to pursue the CPA after graduation and continue working toward my goal of joining a Fortune 500 company, where I hope to one day become a partner.”
Alyson Nishimura, an incoming senior at California Baptist University, was inspired by Denise Do, who spoke on a panel about authentic leadership. “The most impactful takeaway came from Denise Do, who emphasized that there is no single ‘right path,’” Alyson said. “In contrast, each person must decide for themselves who they want to be and how they want to make their money. This conference has inspired me to be bold, work hard, and take the initiative to create my own path.”
Career Support and Networking Opportunities
In addition to speakers, Elevate also offers career support such as free headshots and resume reviews for participants at all stages of their careers. Participants also had plenty of networking opportunities, including receptions and interactive learning sessions.
Empowerment and Clarity
Ashley Lett, a 2024 Strayer University graduate, valued these opportunities. “I have been looking for clarity and direction pertaining to my career,” Ashley said. “I wanted to connect with other women and hear their stories. This event inspired me to be unapologetic about what I want for myself. I feel empowered and worthy.”
Onyinyechukwu Akametalu, an incoming senior at California State University Long Beach, also valued the opportunities for networking. “Meeting peers who are pursuing master’s degrees or planning to attend law school motivated me to consider the possibilities for my own future after graduation,” Onyinyechukwu said. “Overall, the forum was an affirming and eye-opening experience that gave me a clearer sense of direction and renewed confidence in my path forward.”
Written by Tamarra Brown
