Ontario Universities Accounting Clubs

Daniel Castro

Currently enrolled in the Honours Bachelor of Accounting program, Daniel uses his experiences from previous positions in the university's accounting club (BUASA) to aid in the planning of new and interactive events for students pursing the CA designation. Having participated in DECA U, JDC Central, as well as various other organizing committees and competitions, he highly stresses the importance of getting involved in extra-curricular positions to every undergraduate student. As a finalist in the 2011 Rule the Tube competition, he can attest to the importance of participating in ICAO events since each competition provides a different edge that one may use to stand out.

Viraj Samani

Currently enrolled at Brock University in the Bachelors of Accounting Co-op Program, Viraj firmly believes in the importance of cultivating oneself in all areas. He avidly devotes his time to getting involved, meeting like-minded individuals, and sharing his love and passion for business. In his spare time, Viraj enjoys practicing Muay Thai and Krav Maga. He loves the adrenaline pump from stepping in a ring and waiting for the bell. Viraj also has a deep passion for travelling.

This past summer, he had the opportunity to backpack through Europe for 60 days all alone! In doing so, he developed many skills like leadership and problem solving which he uses on a daily basis as an ICAO representative! Viraj is always open to new experiences, sharing his own, or learning from others; so feel free to contact him for anything!

Norine_Awad_Allah

It was at my high school, Lisgar Collegiate Institute, that I first became interested in the accounting profession; I got to learn more about the different designations one could obtain, where they could take you in life, and all that good stuff! That’s why I'm currently in my second year at Carleton University's Sprott School of Business, pursuing my CA designation by double concentrating in Accounting and Entrepreneurship. Aside from being the Junior BoA, I am also the Finance Director for Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) Carleton, a student organization where we take on different projects and achieve their individual goals with an entrepreneurial mindset. This is random, but in the near future, I really want to go skydiving!

Bijan Toufighi

Bijan is a 3rd year accounting student at Carleton University. He is the Senior BoA representative for Carleton, but he holds numerous other roles within the school. He is the current President of SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) Carleton, an organization that helps out the community through entrepreneurial projects. He is the Wine & Cheese Coordinator for Carleton’s Accounting Association. Bijan has held Teaching Assistant positions in various classes, including Accounting, Calculus, Linear Algebra and Statistics. He recently completed his first co-op term at Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, and is hoping to work in a CA firm for his next work term.

Taylor Hosanna

Hi, I am Taylor Hosanna. I am the Junior BoA Rep for Lakehead University and I am in my second year of studies. Over the summer worked extensively with my parent's company (Hosanna Fire Protection Services) helping not only in the shop, but giving advice I have learned with my business education. I have volunteered with the Thunder Bay Police Youth Corps in the past at numerous events around Thunder Bay. This year I'll begin tutoring for first year accounting and statistics courses. In my free time I enjoy playing hockey and football and reading.

Benoit Kuziora

My name is Benoit Kuziora, and I am the senior BOA representative for Lakehead University in Thunder Bay Ontario. In my earlier years I attended St. Ignatius High School and then decided to enrol in the local Film Production program at Confederation College. I’ve been lucky to work on many film sets including a feature film that was shot locally in Thunder Bay. Upon graduating film I had already been thinking of pursuing a degree, and decided that an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree would be the most versatile and practical option. Two years later I am now in my 3rd year of the HBComm program and majoring in accounting.

Jessica L. Appelle

Jessica Appelle is a 2nd year student at Laurentian University. She is starting core year in the Commerce and Administration program there. When Jessica isn’t studying her bum off, she enjoys the sunshine, the outdoors, and working on her fitness. Currently, she is an active member of the Laurentian Accounting Association and volunteers her time supporting various events. Jessica is proud to be supporting the CA designation and cannot wait to rule the world.

Stephanie Lalonde

Stephanie Lalonde is a 2nd year student at Laurentian University. She is independent but also likes to work in groups. Stephanie enjoys her choice for the accounting field and wishes to one day RULE THE WORLD by becoming a CA. Stephanie also enjoys spending time with family and doing some physical activity through skiing and water sports. She is an active member in the community by helping out with special needs individuals. She cannot wait to begin to work towards her CA designation.

Sameer Shaikh

I am currently in my second year at McMaster University and pursuing a Honours B.Comm with a major in accounting and double minor in economics and finance. I am actively involved in the McMaster community and had the privilege of being one of the founding members for two clubs; McMaster Believe 4 Kids and Pakistan Development Fund, for whom I am the Vice-President. Having been raised in Saudi Arabia, I moved to Canada in 2005 and attended Glenforest Secondary School in Mississauga, where I obtained an International Baccalaureate diploma. Apart from academics, I am a dedicated sports fan, love travelling, and am very interested in politics.

Marleigh White

After spending high school years devoted to extra curriculars and academics, Marleigh graduated from Bishop Ryan Catholic School and is a currently a third year commerce student at McMaster University. Marleigh was born and raised in Hamilton and is proud to be attending the University in her own backyard. Intrigued by high school accounting classes Marleigh finds herself in pursuit of a CA designation. In addition to her academic interests, Marleigh has spent the past two summers successfully running and growing a franchised business with College Pro. Her interests and hobbies include competitive dance, baseball, cycling and her newly found passion for kickboxing and jujitsu. Around campus you can find Marleigh on the executive team for DeGroote Impact as well as participating in the annual Global Citizen Conference, Welcome Week Green Suits and Health Science Fashion Show. Although she lives off campus, Marleigh is always available to answer questions or help you get involved.

Jasmine Chartrand

My name is Jasmine Chartrand and I am the Junior Board of Ambassador Representative for Nipissing University. Both my father and my brother are accountants, and I plan on following their footsteps in pursuing the ultimate title of Chartered Accountant. As well as being the Junior Representative, I am the Vice President of Operations for the Nipissing University Business Community and a member of the Young Professionals in the North Bay Chamber of Commerce. I am in my second year of university currently, and already anxious for the CA exams!

Ian Szeto

I am Ian Szeto. As a senior ICAO representative for Nipissing University for the 2011-2012 school year, I am looking forward to serving my fellow university students; to experience the same learning, networking and growth opportunities through my association with the ICAO.
I was born and raised in Toronto. During my high school years, I was working part-time as a sanitary engineer, at a day care centre. Such work experience had taught me to realize that every experience can be valuable as long as one has the right attitude to learn and grow from it. During the past two years, I did tutoring as well. I also partake in team sports such as slo-pitch and basketball.

Roslyn McLarty

Roslyn is a second-year Commerce student who decided to pursue a CA designation several years ago. She is an active member of Queen’s School of Business and a Dean’s List student. This year she is committed to a number of roles in addition to the one on the ICAO’s Board of Ambassador.  Roslyn is an events coordinator for the Queen’s Accounting Association, a Commerce orientation leader and a social planner for the Exchange and Transfer Committee. Roslyn has worked in a medium-sized accounting company in her home town of Ottawa for the past three summers. She hopes to gain experience in a larger firm in the summers to come. In her spare time Roslyn enjoys volleyball, hot yoga, running and soccer.

Eileen Zhou

Eileen Zhou is a 3rd year Commerce student at Queen’s School of Business. She plans to specialize in finance and accounting, and has had two summers of work experience in both fields. Outside of academics, Eileen volunteers in the Paediatrics department at Credit Valley Hospital and is marketing director for Students for Corporate Social Responsibility at Queen’s. She will be going on exchange to ESSEC Business School in France this winter term, where she will indulge in her love for travel, culture, and fashion, and gain more insight into the world of business. After graduation, Eileen plans to pursue her CA designation and continue dedicating time to volunteering in the community.

Cuong Pham

My name is Cuong Pham and I am a second year student at Ryerson University. Over the past summer I attended Cardware 2011 as a speaker to give my views on the future of mobile commerce to executives varying from financial institutions, payment processing companies, and even the banking and financial services ombudsman office! I am also very involved with SIFE Ryerson and my accounting society (RUAS). Over the summer, we’ve been planning all of our events to be informative, fun, and valuable to our members and have set ambitious goals this year. I am looking forward to meeting as many students as I can this year so if you see me travelling between classes, feel free to say hi!

Kate Villanueva

My name is Kate Villanueva and I am a third year student at Ryerson University. Initially, I aspired to be a filmmaker, but realized my strengths in business and accounting. Therefore, it became my goal to hone in on my leadership ability, which is a vital skill in the profession. Back in high school, I was heavily involved in an anti-bullying student group to help raise awareness against bullying in teens. This experience has taught me that leadership is best placed towards a positive change. This coming year, I look forward to meeting more students in the Ryerson community. When you see me around, don’t hesitate to approach me. I’m one of a few people who love small talk!

Rory Hume

My name is Rory Hume. I am currently in my second year at the University of Guelph, and I am the Junior rep for my university. Along with attending university I also work at Starbucks as a Supervisor. I have been working with the company for three years now and still enjoy working there. I have enjoyed studying accounting since I started taking accounting courses in grade 11 and recently have discovered I also have a passion for Computer Science, as such I hope to earn my CA designation and from their pursue an IT designation.

Kevin McLeod

Kevin McLeod is a third year Accounting student at the University of Guelph, in addition to serving as the Senior Board of Ambassador, he sits as the Director of Communication for the ASG. Kevin thoroughly enjoys hosting accounting review sessions for first-year accounting students and takes on a number of tutees each semester. This past summer, Kevin worked at Indigo Books & Music managing millions of dollars of inventory and developing analytics to improve processes within the Procurement team. In his spare time, he enjoys researching financial issues facing the world, and taking a break on the golf course. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled on the Guelph campus, and don’t be shy!

Kylie White

Hey guys! My name is Kylie and I am in my 2nd year at the University of Guelph-Humber. Prior to my post secondary studies, I attended Etobicoke School of the Arts as a music major. I have had the typical food and retail jobs but the job that impacted me the most was my position with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. This job allowed me to touch on every aspect of business and it helped me realize my interest in accounting. I also did a lot of event planning; even put together one of the biggest gatherings of the year. Other than trying to keep busy, I enjoy playing hockey and lacrosse and basically anything that involves being outside.

Keerthana Keri Ranjanakumar

Keerthana Keri Ranjanakumar is in her third year of studies at the University of Guelph-Humber, completing the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration program. She is pursuing her Chartered Accountant (CA) designation. She works with the Centre for Teaching and Learning at the Humber Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, where she supports the development and delivery of professional development and training sessions to Humber faculty. Keri is also a board member of the Guelph-Humber Accounting Council (GHAC), and the Student Association. Keri is the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Aiming for the Top Scholarship awarded for outstanding academic achievement. In her spare time, she loves to travel and spend time with her family and friends. She is currently learning to play the guitar and loves the Jonas Brothers. Please feel free to email her if you have any questions regarding the CA designation or the ICAO!

Stefan Lucas

Hi everyone, my name is Stefan Lucas and I am currently in my second year in University of Ontario Institute of Technology’s Bachelor of Commerce program. I am a part of UOIT’s accounting association as a Marketing Coordinator Executive where I create advertisement posters and more. Over the summer I worked at BMO Capital Markets in downtown Toronto as an Analyst for Financial Governance and assisted the CFO of BMO’s Advisors Private Limited. This internship for a first year student opened up a huge opportunity as it gave me a good start towards my career in working with the banking industry as a CA. In my spare time I like to relax and watch television, go to the movies, and play Xbox.

Emily Hsiung

Emily Hsiung is a second year student studying accounting at the University of Ottawa, Telfer School of Management. She is currently an executive member of the Telfer Finance Society as Case Competition Coordinator, after previously serving as the first-year representative.
Emily was also the recipient of the Bell High School D.A. Fox Trophy for organizational talent in student affairs, having successfully organized a three-day leadership camp. Emily also volunteers in a variety of capacities, ranging from assisting at the parliamentary office of M.P. Pierre Poilievre, to tutoring math and English. Emily is passionate about living an active, enriched lifestyle through sports and multiculturalism. In her spare time, Emily plays soccer, volleyball and badminton, and performs traditional oriental dances across Ottawa.

Alex Tyutyunnik

My name is Alex Tyutyunnik and I’m currently in my third year at the University of Ottawa studying towards my BComm. Originally from Toronto, I chose to move to Ottawa to experience something new and exciting, and I feel like I’ve done just that. As an executive member of the school’s accounting club and a member of many other business clubs, I enjoy participating and helping out with the various networking events held around campus. I’m currently employed at Frito Lay Canada as a sales representative and hope to be starting my first accounting co-op term this year in Ottawa. Thus I intend to use the skills and experiences I’ve gathered towards obtaining my CA designation!

Avalon D'Souza

My name is Avalon D’Souza and I am a 2nd year B. Comm student at the University of Toronto Mississauga. I am the Junior BoA for the ICAO. I identify myself as a creative and analytical guy with an entrepreneurship mentality. Currently I am the lead software developer for a non-profit organization named Formula North Inc. and I write code for various companies on the side. I am also the Treasurer for UTM Rotaract Club which focuses on community help, world help and personal development. I love mentoring and working in a team environment. My dreams and goals are to pursue my CA designation and stay CEO of my company. I dream big because nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it.

Uria Park

My name is Uria Park and I am the Senior BoA Representative for UTM. Currently in my third year of Commerce, I am also involved with the Undergraduate Commerce Society as the Professional Development Director, where I plan events for students to help develop their transferable skills that can be applied to any of their future endeavours. Although I initially started my university life studying Fashion Communication, with the CA designation, I look forward to exploring how my love of fashion can be combined with my business knowledge. As part of the winning team of the 2011 CA$H Competition, I can attest to how beneficial and fun this event is, and I highly recommend any student to participate!

Jaymon Hung

My name is Jaymon Hung. I am currently a 2nd year student at the University of Toronto at Scarborough, studying in the Co-op Management Accounting Specialist program. I graduated from Agincourt Collegiate Institute, my secondary school, in the summer of 2010. In the upcoming winter of 2012, I will be heading out into my first co-op work term, hoping to gain valuable experience towards my Chartered Accountant designation. Aside from my academic profile, I take the time to volunteer for senior retirement homes; I take on mentorship roles at my University and secondary school, and explore new entrepreneurial ventures. My interests include playing in organizational basketball and my dream is to one day work for Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment.

Anna Kim

My name is Anna Kim and I am an accounting student at the University of Toronto at Scarborough. Having graduated high school from abroad, I was unaware of opportunities a CA designation provides. I became friends with a few passionate people who gave me insight and inspired me to set challenging goals. Now, I am pursuing a CA designation and hope to become an accomplished accountant in today’s business world. Besides school, I am part of a band as a vocalist and, I practice my accounting skills by volunteering in the preparation of annual statements. Feel free to contact me with any questions about the designation or university requirements and I will be more than happy to help you.

Kristine Andal

My name is Kristine Andal and I am currently a second year student enrolled in the Rotman Commerce Business School at the University of Toronto St. George Campus. This school year I am actively involved in two extra curriculars, a student group called Rotman Commerce Women in Business (RCWIB) and the first year learning community (FLC). This will be my second year as a part of the RCWIB group and am looking forward to helping plan our annual symposium. My other, extra-curricular, FLC is a mentoring program at my university called FLC (first-year learning community) where I help guide first year students through their freshman year. It is a fun and busy school year!

Latisha Walter

My name is Latisha Walter and I am a 3rd year student at Rotman Commerce at the University of Toronto pursuing a specialization in Accounting. Since joining university, I have taken part in various associations within the Rotman community, such as Women in Business and Student Council. As an executive for a women’s advocate group, I am actively engaging students on campus and spreading awareness about the barriers faced by women globally. I enjoy attending conferences and meeting new people. Last year I represented my school in the ICAO’s CA$H competition and had a blast! I also have an immense passion for travelling and learning about different cultures. This summer I did an internship in the UK as an Equity Research intern for a German bank, coming away with a great experience and tons of unforgettable memories!

Mateen Imran

Mateen Imran is a second year AFM student and in addition to serving as the Junior BoA representative, he is heavily involved in the Accounting and Finance Students Association as well as the Bear & Bull Media Group. This past summer, Mateen helped manage Sanofi Pasteur’s billion dollar vaccine supply chain as an intern in its materials management division. He is hoping to utilize his varied skills and experiences to pursue the CA designation. Apart from working and volunteering, Mateen loves to play soccer and watch football (Go Colts!) in his spare time. He is a graduate of the Enhanced Learning Program at the Woodlands School in Mississauga where he first acquired his love for the CA in his accounting class.

Stefan Mak

My name is Stefan Mak and I am a second year student in University of Waterloo’s Accounting and Financial Management program. In my first year, I have taken positions in the Accounting and Financial Student Association. I also participated in a few intramural sports teams and enjoyed every moment of it! As for this past summer, I worked two part-time jobs because I wanted to have to time to enjoy my last and only summer.

Yongjian Lu

Hi my name is Yongjian, but please do call me YJ for short. I am a second year student in the Management and Organizational Studies program at the University of Western Ontario. I am originally from Ottawa where I attended Bell High School, from which I first learned about the CA designation in a grade 11 accounting course. Over the summer I interned at RBC, and in my free time I enjoy playing tennis and recreational poker (although “free time” is becoming more and more scarce). I would be happy to answer any questions anyone might have, and if you see me around, please do say hi!

Caitlin Sinclair

I'm a third-year student at the University of Western Ontario and I am originally from London, Ontario. I spent the past summer working for a communications company and completing my Canadian Securities Course, although I somehow managed to spend more time at the beach than studying! I have held numerous positions on various clubs at Western, such as SIFE Western, the UWO Conservatives, the Management & Organizational Studies Students’ Association, and others. I am proud to have the role of Senior BoA Rep for the BMOS program, as well as VP Finance for the Western Accounting Club this year. I've known I wanted to be CA since high school and I can't wait to make it happen!

Justin Scenna

My name is Justin Scenna and I am in my third year at the University of Western Ontario and beginning my first year in the HBA program at the Richard Ivey School of Business. I attended Bishop Allen Academy in Toronto and I have many years of work experience in the retail industry, in both sales and management. When I’m not working or hitting the books, I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, running, swimming, listening to music, watching movies and cooking. In addition to my position with the ICAO, I look forward to joining the Executive Committee of the Western Accounting Club this year as their VP of Academics.

Caleigh Smith

I am in my fourth year studying accounting at the Richard Ivey School of Business and am the VP CA Education for the HBA Accounting Association. I went to high school at Havergal College in Toronto and spent my first two years at Western studying Business Management and Organizational Studies. This past summer I worked for two months as a finance intern at Taylor’s Education Group in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. When I’m not working, I enjoy playing on competitive volleyball teams at Western, waterskiing during the summer, and spending time with friends. Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about the CA designation, I would be happy to help!

Louis Pio

My name is Louis Pio and I am currently beginning my second year at the Odette School of Business, University of Windsor. I have worked for the past three years as a Sales Associate at Freed’s, a local clothing retailer. During the tax season, I work as an assistant with tax preparing at Business Partners. Recently, I have been volunteering as an Odette Ambassador as well as at my old high school, Holy Names. In my free time, I enjoy reading up on stocks and the market and also going out with my friends.

Jayson Bastien

My name is Jayson Bastien and I am currently in my third year at the Odette School of Business, University of Windsor. I have been set on obtaining my CA designation since high school. My work experience includes being a Customer Service Representative at Scotiabank, and I use to own and operate my own property maintenance company and am employed by the Odette School of Business as a tutor; I am also employed as a private tutor. I enjoy volunteering my time to coach soccer and aid young entrepreneurs in the “Summer Company” program of the Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services. When I am not busy working or volunteering, I enjoy cruising Lake Erie and the Detroit River on my boat.

Mohsin Cheema 

Hi, my name is Mohsin Cheema and I am a second year student at Wilfrid Laurier University. I graduated from John Fraser Secondary School in Mississauga and now I am the Junior ICAO BoA Representative. Along with this position, I am also with the School of Business and Economics Students’ Society at Laurier as Club Liaison Head Mentor, creating programs for first year business students to help them succeed. I’m an energetic, outgoing person and I really want the chance to travel, which I may get from my future career as a CA. If you go to Laurier, you’ll probably see me at most business related events. Feel free to contact me and ask me any questions!

Beatrice Balaceanu

Hello everyone! My name is Beatrice Balaceanu and I am currently in my 3rd year in the BBA/Co-op program at Wilfrid Laurier University. In my past 2 years at Laurier I have been involved on the executive team of various organizations on campus such as Students Offering Support (SOS), Laurier Tennis Club, Laurier Accounting Association and as an Orientation Week leader. Originally from Toronto, I went to high school at Humberside Collegiate Institute and in my last year took part in the Women in Capital Markets job-shadow program, which opened my eyes to the business industry and my interest in accounting. This past summer I worked at the Ontario Financing Authority and plan to pursue my CA designation.

Ammar Faizy

My name is Ammar Faizy. I am entering my second year in the Business Administrative Studies Honours Accounting program at York University. I graduated from Marc Garneau Collegiate Institute in June 2010. In January 2011, I represented the School of Administrative Studies at the 2011 ICAO CA$H Competition. This was also my first ever opportunity to network with representatives from accounting firms. At the end of the two high school semesters, my grade 12 Finance teacher, Mr. Mirza, welcomes me to speak to his students about university life and it’s challenges. Also, I am an avid fan of luxury and performance cars (Who isn’t?). I look forward to seeing you around campus!

Shervin Mohabbati

Shervin is entering his third year at York University. In 2011 he represented the School of Administrative Studies at the annual ICAO CA$H Competition, and loved every minute of it. In the summer of 2011, Shervin coached the Under 15 Boys at Richmond Hill Soccer Club. He has also been part of the M.S. Society since 2010 and helped the organization with fundraising in different events. Shervin is an avid soccer fan proudly supporting the Barcelona F.C. In his spare time, he likes to watch sports ,play soccer and read news. Shervin is very approachable and welcomes you to ask any questions you may have regarding the CA designation or the ICAO!

Nirav Shah

Nirav Shah is a second year BBA student at the Schulich School of Business, York University. In addition to serving as the Junior BoA representative, he is the Director of Corporate Sponsorship for DECA U Ontario and has served on the leadership teams of various local and in-school initiatives. This past summer he was employed at a mid-size CA firm as an accounting intern. Previously, he has worked as an Assistant Investment Advisor for Bank of Montreal - Nesbitt Burns and as a sales representative at Canadian Tire. He was one of twelve candidates selected from Canada to attend KPMG's National Fast Forward Conference in Hollywood, California this past July. He is hoping to utilize his varied skills and experiences to pursue a CA designation. As part of the Board of Ambassadors he hopes to increase awareness of the many opportunities that come with a CA designation.

Areeba Ariz

Areeba Ariz is a third year BBA student. A zealous CA aspirant herself, she is serving as Senior BoA in addition to her responsibilities as BTMA executive and Schulich Ambassador. Areeba is also extensively involved in case competitions, leadership conferences and mentorship activities throughout the year. She is a social enterprise enthusiast and her passion has served her well in leadership roles with organizations such as Heart and Stroke Foundation. Previously, she has interned with PepsiCo International and a start-up pharmaceutical company. Free-spirited and adventurous, she loves travelling, roller coasters and horses! As ICAO Ambassador, Areeba’s priority is to ensure that students are well-informed with access to opportunities that will help them on their mission to rule the world!