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KPMG Scholarship Recipients

Yuvraj Sood, Fall 2024, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Yuvraj Sood

I am currently enrolled in first semester of PAcc program as a part-time student, and have planned to write the September 2025 CFE. I have been working in public accounting for almost last 6+ years, and am currently working as a manager in the firm. Upon completion of CFE I plan to work in one of the Big Four Company, in tax role.

As a CPA, Tax is the role which I seem to best fit myself in. I even plan to do the CPA in-depth tax course to further enhance my knowledge and skills. Getting a scholarship for PAcc is an amazing surprise for me as I never thought I would be eligible for it. I want to sincerely thanks KPMG for the generosity of this award. This award creates a positive and encouraging environment for aspiring CPAs enrolled in the PAcc program.

In my free time I enjoying cooking food. The foremost reason I want to travel the world is being able to learn about food from different cultures and regions, and am really hopeful to spare more time for this once I am done becoming a CPA.

Akansh Gandhi

My journey as a part-time student in the PAcc program at York University has been a blend of challenges and rewards, each step shaping my path with purpose and resilience. Starting my career in public accounting over six years ago, even before my undergraduate studies, I learned the art of balancing full-time work with academic pursuits. Recently, I proudly graduated with a BCom specializing in accounting from York University, an achievement that marks countless hours of dedication and learning.

Throughout this journey, I’ve had the privilege of gaining invaluable experience in the field. Today, I hold the position of Manager at Clearhouse Tax & Advisory LLP, where I continue to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of this profession I am so passionate about.

As I look to the future, my immediate goal is to write the CFE in September 2025, the final milestone in achieving my CPA designation. This moment is more than just an exam; it’s a culmination of years of hard work and a step closer to my dream of establishing my own accounting firm. My vision is to use my expertise to support business owners, guiding them through the intricacies of financial management with clarity and care.

Outside of my professional life, I find joy and balance in playing badminton and traveling. These activities are more than just hobbies; they are a way to unwind and see the world through fresh lenses. I am also passionate about learning new things and cherishing time with family and friends, moments that ground and inspire me.

Receiving the KPMG scholarship has been a profound honor. It has not only reaffirmed my dedication to the accounting profession but also given me the confidence to pursue my ambitions with renewed enthusiasm. I am deeply grateful to KPMG for their belief in my potential and for investing in my future. This support serves as a constant reminder that with perseverance and passion, the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

Akansh Gandhi, Fall 2024, KPMG Scholarship Recipient
Asmaa El-Shanta, Summer 2024, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Asmaa El-Shanta

I am currently in the PAcc program as a full time student in the summer 2024 semester after graduating from York University’s B.Com Accounting program. In September, I am excited to begin a new chapter with Grant Thornton, where I look forward to applying my knowledge and further developing my skills in a dynamic environment.

Upon completing the PAcc program, my immediate next step is to start working and successfully complete the CFE by May 2025. Achieving my CPA designation is not just a goal but a significant milestone I am eager to reach. I plan to specialize and advance in the field of audit, where I can contribute to and grow within the industry, upholding the standards of excellence and integrity that KPMG embodies.

Outside of my academic and professional life, I am passionate about baking, which has also led me to run a catering business. This hobby not only enriches my life with joy and creativity but also allows me to connect with others through the universal language of food.

The support from KPMG through this scholarship reaffirms my path and inspires me to pursue my ambitions with even greater dedication. Thank you again for this incredible honor and for investing in my future.

Lubna Hunjara

I am currently in the PAcc program as a part-time student after graduating from York University’s B.Com Accounting program. I have been working in the consumer goods industry in the financial planning and analysis field. Upon completion of my PAcc program, I will contrinue working towards my CPA designation and hope to write my CFE in September 2025. As a CPA, my career aspirations aim at continuous learning and expansion within the accounting and assurance realm. Amidst juggling the demands of my profession alongside the responsibility of nurturing my little ones, I enjoy baking inspired by my love for desserts.

This award is a validation of my continuous efforts and the support that I have received from my family and my professors. I would like to thank KPMG for the generosity as this will inspire more students to strive for the best.

Lubna Hunjara, Summer 2024, KPMG Scholarship Recipient
Timera Boateng, Winter 2024, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Timera Boateng

I am currently in the PAcc program as a full-time student for the winter 2024 semester. I have completed my BCom at York University with a specialization in accounting.

After completing the PAcc program, I plan to write the September 2024 CFE. I will also start working as a staff accountant at KPMG in their audit function in the fall of 2024.

In my spare time, I enjoy going to fairs, playing board games, reading, and learning the drums. Thank you to KPMG for providing such a generous scholarship. This scholarship will allow me to focus on meeting my academic and career goals. I hope to be able to help others reach their own career goals in the future.

Andre Ouellette

I am part-time student in the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting program at York University. My journey in the world of accounting began at York University, where I graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in commerce, specializing in accounting. Following my graduation, I embarked on a professional path that led me to the role of a financial controller for a medium-sized organization. My career path then evolved dynamically, steering me towards the vibrant field of financial technology consulting. Currently, I am proud to serve as a Senior Technology Consultant in the D365 practice at RSM, where I continue to grow and apply my skills in new, challenging environments.

The pursuit of the CPA designation is my next goal upon completing the PACC program. This ambition is fueled by the recognition and support I received through the KPMG Award. The award represents the hard work and perseverance I’ve dedicated to my studies and career, symbolizing not just personal achievements but the value of steadfast commitment to one’s goals. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the professors and staff involved in the PACC program. Their dedication and support have been instrumental for my success and achievements.

Outside the professional sphere, I channel my energy and leadership skills into managing a men’s hardball baseball team during the summer. This role, coupled with my eagerness to continuously learn and explore new horizons, keeps me engaged and inspired in all aspects of life.

Thank you!

Andre Ouellette, Winter 2023, KPMG Scholarship Recipient
Rohan Sharma, Summer 2023, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Rohan Sharma

I am a full-time PAcc student in the Summer 2023 term. Prior to joining PAcc, I completed my BCom with a specialization in Accounting at York. Once this term is over, I will be starting at TD in their CPA Rotational Program. My next step is to successfully write the CFE and continue to grow within the Accounting industry. I would love to teach accounting introductory courses to the next generation of CPAs.

During my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I especially love spending time with my dog Ace. I am a huge sports fan, and a big Toronto Maple Leafs supporter. Yes, I have been disappointed for a long time 🙁

I would like to thank KPMG for their generosity with this award. It has been a privilege to be chosen for this award. This award is the result of the ongoing support I have received from my peers, colleagues and undergraduate professors.

Trodian Portodo

I am a full time student at PAcc program and accepted an offer at RSM Canada. I am planning to write the CFE exam on September 2024.

I will be continuing my accounting journey helping mid-sized firms and hoping to be more involved in programs that help the communities.

I love watching movies and enjoying a nice weather in a park. Lastly, I would like to personally thank KPMG for the award. This is a great help for me to launch my career.

Trodian Portodo, Summer 2023, KPMG Scholarship Recipient
Celine Mariela Grey, Fall 2022, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Celine Mariela Grey

I am currently enrolled in the full-time Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting at York University. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Commerce with a Specialized Honours in Accounting in February 2022 and since then, I have been working in Assurance as a Staff Accountant at Ernst & Young specifically with financial services clients, operating in the insurance industry.

Upon completing the PACC program, I wish to continue working towards the CPA designation. The KPMG award has greatly impacted my life allowing me to appreciate all my hard work and effort I’ve done in my undergrad. It truly is proof that determination, hard work and a positive attitude are the recipe for success. I’d like to thank the professors that have been a true inspiration to me throughout my undergraduate journey and a big thank you to the Donor of the award for supporting this program and recognizing my academic achievement. By accepting this award, I hope to serve as an inspiration to other students, and to remember that we should always believe in ourselves and to keep moving forward.

Allyson Whyte

I am a full-time Pacc student and will be starting my career in the CPA Training Program with CIBC in September 2022. My next steps after the Pacc program are to write the CFE in September 2023 and work to complete my practical experience. I believe social and environmental responsibility is very important now and for future generations. My career goal is to work in the area of Corporate Social Responsibility to help improve communities and the impact that businesses have on the environment.

I enjoy spending time with family, hiking, and biking.

Many thanks to KPMG for supporting my career aspiration to become a CPA!

Allyson Whyte, Summer 2022, KPMG Scholarship Recipient
Wei Chen, Summer 2022, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Wei En (Ryan) Chen

Currently, I am a part-time student in the PAcc program and working as a Senior Staff Accountant at Clark & Horner CPAs LLP. After finishing my PAcc program, I plan to write the CFE in September 2023 and work in public accounting for a while. I love both audit and tax, and would like to get exposure to as many different clients and industries as I can in both these fields. I would like to take the CPA In-depth Tax Program once I get my CPA, and also would like to teach accounting courses to upcoming CPA professionals at the university level.

In my spare time, I love to spend time with friends and family, going outdoors, teaching and exploring different cultures and cuisines. I love to meet new people when I get the chance and learn about their culture and experiences, and hopefully can travel around the world.

Huge thanks to KPMG for this prestigious scholarship and supporting my educational journey towards attaining the CPA designation. I’d also love to give back to York University and contribute to the CPA Profession community in any way I can in the future, and try to achieve my personal values of making a positive impact on other people’s lives.

Meharleen Gaudh

I am a full-time PAcc Student and will be writing the CFE in September 2022. I will be launching my career in public accounting. My hobbies are reading and baking. A big thank you to KPMG for supporting my CPA journey with this scholarship!

Meharleen Gaudh, Winter 2022, KPMG Scholarship Recipient
Younghyun Kwon, Winter 2022, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Younghyun Kwon

I am a full-time student at PAcc and accepted an offer from the KPMG tax group starting October 2022. My next step after finishing the  PAcc program is to successfully complete the CFE and be a partner at the accounting firm in the future.

I faced a lot of obstacles because of my personal financial situation before enrolling this program, so I had been looking a lot for financial support. KPMG scholarship helped relieve my financial burden.

It is all thanks to KPMG that I can do it!

Photo of Benjamin Beji, Fall 2021,KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Benji Benjamin

I am a part time student at PACC and currently employed by EY. My next steps after finishing the PAcc program is to successfully finish CFE. If everything entails I hope to be a CFO in the future. I would personally like to thank KPMG for the award.

Junghwan Youn

I am a part-time student at the PAcc program. My current position is Staff Accountant at KPMG Canada. My next steps when I finish the PAcc program is to successfully write the CFE. My future career plans are to learn further about data analytics and boosting my networking skills.

In my spare time, I like to spend my time with my family and two dogs as it is getting harder to spend time with them in my daily routine. I am very particular about my personal health, when I have time, I enjoy spending time practicing martial arts such as Hapkido and Taekwondo. Additional, I love going for a drive with people who share the same passion as me.

Lastly, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to KPMG for this amazing scholarship. The KPMG scholarship enabled me to focus on my professional career and it will accelerate my personal goal to give back to the community. I am very thrilled to be the recipient for KPMG scholarship, and I am deeply appreciative of the support that I received throughout my time in PAcc program.

Junghwan Youn, Fall 2021, KPMG Scholarship Recipient
Photo o Rachel Yuxin, Summer 2021, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

Rachel (Yuxin) Yi

After graduating from PACC program as a full-time student, I started my career in one of the big five banks’ CPA Rotational Program. I see myself becoming a competent CPA who can make valuable contribution to the community. I am a yogi and I dance!

Pravenaah Senthitseyon

I graduated in Summer 2021, as a full-time student, from the PAcc program at York University. After graduating, I started my career at Grant Thornton as an Accountant. My future goal is to write the CFE in 2022 and obtain my CPA designation. During my spare time, I enjoyed going for walks and playing tennis. Last but not least, I would like to thank KPMG for the scholarship and their continued support in helping me achieve my career aspirations.

Pravenaah Senthitseyon, Summer 2021, KPMG Scholarship Recipient

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