Difference Makers Discuss: The best of Season 1
In a world where the finance and accountancy profession are being reshaped by global challenges, technological disruption, and the urgent call for diversity, Difference Makers Discuss… offers a rare window into the lives of those leading this transformation from within.
Season 1 takes listeners across continents and career milestones—unearthing stories of resilience, leadership, and purpose from Chartered Accountants around the world. Whether it’s navigating cultural transitions, overcoming systemic bias, breaking ground in sustainability, or redefining leadership through inclusion, each episode reveals how today’s professionals are driving change far beyond the balance sheet.
Kudzai Zendera – Grounded by heritage, driven by purpose
Kudzai Zendera (ICAS) shares a compelling account of his journey from the UK to Zimbabwe and back again, rising through the ranks at PwC and Standard Chartered Bank. His story is an exploration of identity, belonging, and the role cultural heritage plays in shaping an authentic leadership style. Kudzai’s episode reminds us that in a rapidly globalising profession, our roots remain a powerful source of direction.
Asma Shahbaz – Navigating risk in a fast-moving world
Asma Shahbaz (ICAP) charts her path from student to senior specialist in governance and operational risk at Mashreq Bank. Her conversation offers a sharp lens on the evolving role of accountants in high-stakes decision-making. Through Asma’s experience, we gain insight into what it takes to succeed in today’s demanding financial environment—and how adaptability, curiosity, and lifelong learning are indispensable.
Naomi Walsh – From Tasmania to the world stage
Vice President of CA ANZ Naomi Walsh brings a candid, energising perspective on international career mobility and leadership as a woman in finance. From her beginnings in rural Tasmania to working on the London Olympics, Naomi’s episode touches on the personal growth unlocked through global exposure. Her reflections on confidence, imposter syndrome, and the power of saying “yes” are unmissable for aspiring leaders.
Maria Teo – Chartered Accountants as architects of sustainability
With the climate crisis reshaping corporate priorities, Maria Teo (ISCA) shines a spotlight on the evolving role of accountants in leading sustainable change. Starting in forensic auditing and moving into climate and ESG strategy, Maria’s journey highlights the skills and mindset needed to embed sustainability into business decisions. Her contribution to One Young World underscores the urgency—and opportunity—of this agenda.
Caroline Sherry – Leading through crisis with clarity
CFO of Hostelworld PLC, Caroline Sherry (CAI) stepped into her leadership role just as the pandemic hit. Her episode is a masterclass in resilience and strategic communication under pressure. Caroline opens up about transitioning from science to finance, tackling imposter syndrome, and pushing for gender equity in the boardroom. From investor relations to AI in travel, this is an episode that bridges insight and honesty.
Artificial Intelligence and Trust in the Chartered Accountancy Profession – AI, Trust and the Public Interest
This paper gives high-level considerations and prompts to help Chartered Accountants and those responsible for governance think about the basics: where AI is being used, the potential implications for trust, and the key questions to consider when adopting or overseeing AI-enabled activities.
Watch Past Episodes On Demand
In this special edition of Difference Makers Discuss, recorded for the Chartered Accountants Worldwide UAE community, host Carla Wilson is joined by international tax specialist Hugo van Zyl and HR leader Sarah Brooks. Together they unpack the tax, payroll, and governance risks of letting employees work across borders, along with the practical steps every organisation should take.
Have you ever been told to keep your head down, work hard, and let your good work speak for itself? It sounds like solid advice. It’s also, according to Kingsley Aikins, pretty much the worst career guidance you can get.
What does a fourth-generation New Zealander, with a Singaporean-Chinese mum, a law degree, a Chartered Accountancy qualification, and an Irish husband have in common with the Italian government, a 2,000-strong parent community in Greenwich, and a global mission to attract foreign investment? In this episode of Difference Makers Discuss, host Sinead Donovan finds out.
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