Q&A with June Lee, CPA, CMA
Member Ambassador of the Year 2026
Why did you want to become a Member Ambassador?
I wanted to become a Member Ambassador because I am genuinely proud to be part of the CPA community. It is funny looking back, but as a child, my dream was actually to become an ambassador or diplomat. So, in a way, this role lets me fulfil that childhood dream within my professional field! Over the years, this profession has brought incredible mentors and friends into my life who have supported and guided my own career journey, so becoming an ambassador felt like a natural way to give back to the association. I really enjoy connecting with like-minded professionals and prospective CPAs. Every time I attend or help out at a CPABC event, getting to see familiar faces while building new relationships across the province is always the absolute highlight for me. It is rewarding to be that welcoming presence for others who are navigating their own paths in the profession.
What have you gained from your Member Ambassador experience?
My experience as an ambassador has been a fantastic growth journey, both personally and professionally. Volunteering in hands-on roles, such as judging post-secondary case competitions has really sharpened my communication skills. It challenged me to articulate feedback clearly, think on my feet, and practice true active listening when evaluating young talent.
Beyond the technical and interpersonal skills, the biggest reward has been the deep sense of connection I have gained. Through ambassador work and volunteering with the local chapter, I have built a lasting, trusted network of fellow CPAs and volunteers across BC that extends far beyond my day-to-day job.
Outside of your work and being a CPABC Ambassador, what are you passionate about?
Outside of my day job and ambassador duties, I am deeply passionate about supporting the next generation as a mentor for CPA candidates, helping guide them as they work toward obtaining their designation.
To stay grounded and healthy, I place a big emphasis on wellness and clean eating. You will find me staying active outdoors, especially taking walks along the seawall or catching a group fitness class to recharge.
Q&A with Jaymar Gonzales
Campus Ambassador of the Year 2026
Why did you want to become a Campus Ambassador?
I wanted to become a Campus Ambassador because I wanted to help bridge the gap between students and the accounting profession. When I first started university, I wasn't very involved and didn't fully understand the opportunities available to students. As I became more engaged, I realized how valuable organizations like CPABC are in helping students explore career paths, develop professionally, and build meaningful connections. I wanted to encourage other students to take advantage of those same opportunities.
What have you gained from your Campus Ambassador experience?
My experience as a Campus Ambassador has given me the opportunity to build meaningful connections with both students in the accounting community. It has been rewarding to see students attend an event because of a conversation we had or discover opportunities they may not have known about otherwise. The role has also given me a better understanding of how important it is to make the profession feel approachable and welcoming, especially for students who are just beginning to explore accounting as a career. It has been incredibly fulfilling to play a small part in helping others take that first step.
Outside of your work and being a CPABC Ambassador, what are you passionate about?
Outside of work and my role as a CPABC Ambassador, I'm passionate about mentoring students and creating opportunities for them to grow professionally. Through my involvement with the SFU Accounting Student Association, I enjoy organizing networking events, mentorship initiatives, and professional development opportunities that help students build confidence and prepare for their careers. I also enjoy staying active through sports and spending time with friends and family.
Q&A with Joyce Fung
- High School Ambassador of the Year 2026
Why did you want to become a High School Ambassador?
I wanted to become a High School Ambassador because it was an opportunity to give back to my school community while exploring a profession I am interested in. Becoming a CPABC Highschool Ambassador is a great way to learn more about the accounting profession beyond what I had learnt in school and connect with professionals and likeminded peers in the field.
As an Ambassador, I am also able to share exciting opportunities and events with students at my school. I hope that by introducing students to the CPA profession, I could help them discover future career paths in this sector.
What have you gained from your High School Ambassador experience?
The High School Ambassador program has been a rewarding experience for me. One of the most valuable parts of the program has been the opportunity to build meaningful connections with fellow ambassadors, CPAs, and mentors. Learning from their experiences and listening to their stories has greatly inspired me.
Beyond that, I had the opportunity to gain a better understanding of accounting as a profession, strengthen my communication skills, and grow as a leader. Receiving the High School Ambassador of the Year award is an honour, and I'm incredibly grateful for everything the program has given me.
Outside of your work and being a CPABC Ambassador, what are you passionate about?
Outside of my work and being a CPABC Ambassador, I love public speaking because it gives me the opportunity to connect with people and build my confidence as a speaker.
When I'm looking to unwind, you'll often find me writing short stories, listening to music or making little clay figures. A good playlist, a comfy environment are the best conditions to relax!
Q&A with Lincoln Xu
- High School Ambassador of the Year 2026
Why did you want to become a High School Ambassador?
I wanted to become an ambassador because of the lack of financial literacy education at my school. Because of the lack, I took the initiative to research resources that would enrich my understanding of financial literacy. In this process, I found that CPABC offered an expansive offering of resources that can help build both me and my peers' understanding of financial literacy. Seizing the opportunity, I applied to be a High School Ambassador and had a blast.
What have you gained from your High School Ambassador experience?
I've gained an immense amount from the two years I was an ambassador. From monthly meetings with Mr. Larry Jung last year to a multitude of financial literacy sessions this year, I've learned different facets of accountancy and financial literacy. The most memorable moment during my time as an ambassador was a panel-style meeting with alumni ambassadors in university.
Outside of your work and being a CPABC Ambassador, what are you passionate about?
Outside of being an ambassador, I am passionate about Mock Trials and philosophy. I was the president of my school's Mock Trials Club, where I taught, organized, and judged for in-house Mock Trial competitions between club members. Moreover, I would hold seminars on jurisprudence to evoke thoughtful conversations between legal theory and how it manifests in our world today. If you ever have a conversation with me, philosophy is bound to come up sometime :)