RPA Canada held its 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, October 26, at C Banquet, Mississauga Civic Centre. The event was chaired by Mr. Zubair Choudhry, President & CEO of RPA Canada, and was a resounding success, celebrated under his leadership with a strong attendance. The AGM highlighted significant accomplishments made throughout 2023-2024, including membership growth, the launch of innovative professional development programs, accreditations for post-secondary institutions, and an unwavering commitment to enhancing ethical standards to protect the public interest.
The Honourable Stephen Crawford, MPP and Minister of Mines, served as the keynote speaker and special guest. In his address, he acknowledged and appreciated the contributions of RPAs in supporting small businesses through accounting and related services. His insights emphasized Ontario’s ongoing economic development, especially the importance of advancing the mining sector. Minister Crawford elaborated on Ontario’s vast mining potential and the promising opportunities awaiting further development, offering a valuable perspective on the province’s role in driving future growth.
“As we look to the future, RPA Canada remains dedicated to fostering growth, networking, and excellence for our members. Together, we are shaping a thriving accounting community, and we are excited for what lies ahead. When an RPA takes on a task, they are trained to get it done!” stated Zubair Choudhry, RPA.
Dr. William X. Wei, PhD, RPA, and Dean of the School of Business and Economics at Algoma University, also addressed the members, reinforcing the MoU between Algoma University and RPA Canada to offer an RPA pathway to accounting students at Algoma University.
This year’s AGM theme, “Data to Decisions – AI for Accountants,” included a powerful presentation by Jim Heaton, President of VOX ISM, on Co-Pilot and Office 365, showcasing how AI and automation are elevating the accounting profession. Technology sponsors, including ADP, BDC, Wolters Kluwer, and 33 Seven, showcased their products and services to RPA members and students.
At the AGM, members elected Zubair Choudhry, RPA, Paul Brosnan, RPA, James Green, RPA, Naseem Qadir, RPA, Robert W (Bob) Finlay RPA, APA, and Syed Warsi, CPA, RPA to the Board of Directors for the 2024-2025 term.
In the second half, RPA Canada’s AGM coincided with Small Business Week celebrations, underscoring the RPA designation holders’ focus on serving small to medium-sized businesses.
