Recognition was given recently to 41 members of the CPA Australia-Fiji branch who have now advanced to full Certified Practicing (CPA) status.

A certification ceremony held at the Sheraton Fiji Resort during the CPA Australia-Fiji Branch Congress on August 20.

CPA Australia has a global membership of over 150,000 accounting and finance professionals.

CPA Australia-Fiji branch President, Shaneel Nandan, said achieving a full CPA designation is great professional achievement for accounting and finance professionals that has global recognition.

To reach this level, candidates must hold a university degree, complete the six papers of the professional level programme and complete three years of practical experience in a relevant accounting role.

Two senior members were also recognised as they advanced to Fellow CPA status.

Fellow CPA status can be awarded to members with 15 years’ experience including five years of executive or senior partner experience or a member who has made a significant contribution to the organisation.

Mr Nandan said in addition to this, they had seven members achieve membership awards: Two for 10 years, four for 20 years and one member reaching 30 years.

“Members are awarded these membership pins for every 10 years of membership right through to 70 years,” he said.

Special award

The major award for the evening was the CPA Australia President’s Award.

This was awarded to Neil Underhill FCPA for his outstanding contribution to the CPA Australia-Fiji branch.

Mr Underhill is the Principal/Owner of Neil Underhill and Associates. He is also the treasurer of the CPA Australia-Fiji Branch.

Mr Nandan said these awards are very rarely bestowed and are awarded by the CPA Australia global board.

“This was the first such event held in Fiji and with the success of this year’s event looks to become an annual celebration,” he said.

Other members who qualify for Fellow CPA and senior awards are encouraged to formally apply.

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