Rich rewards in many respects

To become designated as a chartered accountant (CA) is no easy task. The process is rigorous, time consuming, challenging and can even be a little daunting.

Fahad Siddiqui, who is from Ontario, recently passed the Uniform Evaluation, the UFE, which is the last of all the exams that must be written by CA candidates. As a result, he has pretty much completed his CA qualifications with the exception of a couple of months of practical experience.

Bringing out the very best

Siddiqui said for him, the UFE was more than just an exam.

“It is those six weeks of study culminating in a three-day, 13-hour exam where candidates are pushed to the limit in bringing out the very best in themselves,” he said. “The hard work, dedication and focus that a UFE summer demands is a truly rewarding and priceless experience.”

Siddiqui said that a chartered accountant is one of the most trusted professionals in Canada and the world over.

“Trust is gained by way of building and sustaining lifelong relationships with clients, co-workers, public offices and private organizations,” Siddiqui said. “Accordingly, CA students are expected to display competence in not just accounting and tax roles but more importantly in ethics and integrity throughout their time articling.”

Opportunity in Cranbrook

In order to become a CA, Siddiqui was required to work while completing the CA School of Business modules. Siddiqui accepted an offer to article at a firm in Cranbrook, and welcomed the opportunity to experience the Rockies. He said this was a huge draw for someone who had previously spent much of his life in the plains of southern Ontario.

“My time in Cranbrook is full of memories of meeting great people and sightseeing at some of the best landscapes Canada has to offer,” said Siddiqui. “Over time, I came to also appreciate the spirit of a tight-knit community, especially during a drive to be named Canada's Hockeyville, and on holidays like Halloween at historic Fort Steele.”

Siddiqui said he feels he owes it to his 11-month-old son to one day share his memories with him.

“Given the opportunity, we would definitely consider returning to an area of Canada that is as beautiful and family friendly,” he said.

Siddiqui would like to thank George Rangayah and Jason Crystal of SF Partnership LLP for their empowerment.