School of Accounting student Kevin Naylor was recently selected as a member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) Young Leaders Collective. Kevin, a first-year student at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票, expressed his excitement and honour at being chosen for this global fellowship, “Being chosen for the Young Leaders Collective feels so surreal! I feel incredibly honoured to stand alongside 27 aspiring and early-career accountants from around the globe,” he shared.
“Very few experiences compare to this, and I am profoundly grateful to be chosen as part of IFAC's inaugural group of young leaders, representing South Africa as one of only two selected individuals.”
The Young Leaders Collective aims to amplify the voices of the next generation in the accounting profession. As a member of this group, Kevin will have the opportunity to collaborate with other young leaders to address pressing issues and explore emerging opportunities within the accounting world. His role will involve contributing insights on key initiatives such as artificial intelligence, sustainability, and combating corruption, with the exciting prospect of representing the Collective in various international forums.
Reflecting on his journey, Kevin believes his passion for accounting was sparked during a business plan competition. “Growing up, I've always had a passion for mathematics, accounting, and languages, but the deciding factor for choosing the accounting profession was the enjoyment I had when developing a business plan for the 2023 SAIPA Accounting and Mathematics Olympiad. After winning the competition, I had a feeling in my gut that accounting was the right passion to pursue as I could see myself enjoying the profession for the rest of my life,” he recounted.
His enthusiasm for the field has only grown since starting his university studies. “My first year at university has been an absolute blast thus far! I have met so many like-minded people and I have learned so much about the accounting industry already. Furthermore, the incredible lecturers have ignited my love for accounting even further!”
Looking to the future, Kevin’s ultimate goal is to become a Chartered Accountant. Until then, he plans to broaden his perspective on the accounting profession and inspire those around them. His advice to current students: “Never underestimate yourself. Don't be scared to stand out and seize every opportunity that comes your way. The world is truly your oyster!”
Kevin also expressed gratitude to those who have supported his journey. “Firstly, I would like to thank Ms Sybil Smit and Prof Pieter von Wielligh for exposing me to this amazing opportunity and for their encouragement. Additionally, I want to thank my high school accounting teacher, Mrs Wilma Jacobs, who played a crucial role in my selection for the Collective. During my final two years of high school, she provided countless opportunities to sharpen my accounting skills and deepen my passion for the field. Thanks to her mentorship, I developed an exceptional academic track record that was instrumental in my successful application to the Collective.”
As Kevin embarks on his journey with the Young Leaders Collective, his story serves as an inspiring example of how passion, dedication, and mentorship can open doors to incredible opportunities on a global stage.
