Alliance of Black Women Accountants (ABWA) was proud to collaborate again with CalCPA in sending nine students to the CalCPA Elevate: Women’s Leadership Forum. This year’s conference took place May 7 through May 8 in Huntington Beach at the Pasea Hotel and Spa.
Celebrating the 2026 ABWA Recipients
Congratulations to the nine 2026 ABWA recipients: Christana Pierre, Iyanna Jackson, Ronesha Lang, Nia Jenkins, Shelby Scott, Kayla Thomas, Kori Thompson, Sharon Fasina, and Tiffany Wilburn. 
Generous Support from Sponsors
With the help of amazing sponsors like HCVT and Miller Kaplan contributing to the ABWA CalCPA partnership, stipends were provided to cover event registration, travel, and lodging for recipients. Students took part in a competitive application process to be selected.
Inspiring Future Leaders
The theme of this year’s Conference was “Confidence in Motion.” The goal of sending young, aspiring accountants to this annual event is to inspire them, develop professional relationships, and provide exposure to relevant and important topics for women leaders in the profession. Attendees at all stages of their careers were inspired by presentations ranging from intentional leadership to AI to being in flow for peak performance.
Several ABWA Board and general members also attended this year’s conference. Precious Opaleke, an ABWA General Member, was named CPA Emerging Leader: Women to Watch. ABWA Board Director Tamarra Brown served as Planning Committee Vice Chair and co-emceed the event. ABWA served as a sponsor and hosted a table for the fourth year in a row. s to network with industry professionals.
by Tamarra Brown
