Highlights from the 2023 ICAS Admission Ceremony

28 March 2023

Catch up on the standout moments from the 2023 Admission Ceremony where newly qualified CAs were welcomed to ICAS membership.

Newly qualified CAs gathered with family and friends to share in the celebrations at the 2023 Admission Ceremony in Edinburgh.

ICAS CEO Bruce Cartwright CA opened the ceremony. He said, “Today is all about you, our fellow CAs and those joining the friendship and community today.

“You’ve done the hard work in terms of competency, adaptability and ethics, and you’ve proven your capability. Now you have a passport to a lively future.

“You’ve earned the grounding blocks, and now wherever you go is down to you. But you will be part of a lifelong community and for that we’re very proud of you joining us.”

Gail Boag, Executive Director or Learning, welcomed the new group of CAs on stage and graduates were admitted to membership by ICAS Deputy President Clive Bellingham CA.

Liam Guthrie CA, class of 2022, spoke about his upbringing, his journey to becoming a CA and the pivotal role the ICAS Foundation played in achieving his qualification. He closed by sharing the life lessons he’s learned.

“One of the main reasons I’m standing here today is the ICAS Foundation. The four-year programme offers both financial and mentor support, as well as welcomes you to a community of people with similar experiences.

“The bursary from the Foundation contributed to my living costs, allowing me to move into student accommodation, as I was keen to benefit from the social aspect of university as well as the educational side.

“What I think is the most important and the most beneficial is the mentor support from the Foundation. For me, my mentor David was a sounding board for any struggles, doubts or concerns I had while studying.

"I want to leave this on the values I hope to carry through my professional career. Those are to never become too comfortable in anything I do, to challenge myself, to seek new opportunities and to commit to a life of learning.”

The ceremony was followed by a drinks reception, sponsored by Rutherford Cross, where attendees had the opportunity to celebrate with peers and make new connections.