In a profession shaped by constant change, some of the most valuable lessons we learn are not written in textbooks or taught on training courses. They come instead from the people we meet, the experiences they share, and the different perspectives they bring.
Looking back at my own career, some of my biggest lightbulb moments came from conversations I had, connections I built, and communities I was part of. It was not about how much I knew at the time, but about learning from others who had faced similar challenges, walked a similar path, or viewed things differently.
These moments were not planned — they happened because I connected with people beyond my immediate team, organisation, or network.
That is the power of a professional community. It is why creating opportunities for our members to connect, learn, and share stories, both online and in person, wherever they are in the world, is such an important part of what we do at CIMA. It is also the reason we launched CGMA Week: a celebration of the stories, achievements, and experiences that connect our global CGMA community and showcase the value management accountants bring to organisations and society.
Last year’s inaugural CGMA Week was, for me, one of the highlights of the year. It showcased the pride, achievements, and diverse experiences of members, students, and volunteers across industries, sectors, and geographies. This year, CGMA Week returns from 2 to 8 November, providing another opportunity to share your stories and showcase the impact you make every day.
This year’s theme for CGMA Week is CGMA: Ready for What’s Next. It reflects the vital role CGMA professionals play in helping our organisations navigate change, embrace innovation, and create long-term value in an increasingly complex world.
Throughout the week, we are inviting you to answer two simple questions: What are you most proud of? What are you looking forward to? Whether you choose to share your story through a short video, a photo, or a written post, I encourage you to get involved and share your reflections using #CGMAweek on your social channels.
But CGMA Week is more than a one-off celebration of our community. Throughout the year, we bring members together through initiatives such as our ENGAGE Conferences, Engage365 communities, FM magazine, and the forthcoming launch of FM Live. These platforms create opportunities to connect, learn, share experiences, and support one another, helping to strengthen our global CGMA community long after CGMA Week comes to an end.
Recognising and valuing the diversity of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds across our membership is one of the things that makes the CGMA community so special. From students taking their first steps in the profession to experienced leaders helping to shape the future of organisations, every member brings something unique to our community.
I therefore hope you will join us in celebrating the value of the CGMA qualification, the strength of our global CGMA community, and the impact management accountants make every day. I look forward to seeing your stories and celebrating CGMA Week with you.
Andrew Harding, FCMA, CGMA, is chief executive–Management Accounting at the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants.
