ICAS has revealed the winners its CA Rising Stars competition, recognising the 35 leading Chartered Accountants (CAs) worldwide aged 35 and under.
Grant Thornton’s assistant manager of public services advisory financial modelling, Laura Mason (pictured) , has been named the overall winner and CA Rising Star for 2025.
Although Mason only qualified as a CA last year, the judges praised her impact in using finance to drive social change – from improving access to mental health care to championing marine sustainability. She will now represent ICAS at the One Young World Summit in Munich, a global forum that brings together young leaders from over 190 countries to tackle the world’s most pressing issues.
Mason said: “I’m incredibly honoured to receive this award, and grateful for the support of ICAS and the opportunities that have shaped my journey so far. I’ve had the privilege to work across public services, engage in civic advocacy as a Young Ocean Advocate, and contribute to global dialogue through forums like UN Women and the Doha Forum. It’s been extremely rewarding to help grow the ICAS network beyond Scotland and champion fresh voices, diverse ideas, and responsible leadership in our profession.”
Three outstanding entrants have also been named as category winners in recognition of their efforts to demonstrate ICAS’ core values and leave a lasting impact in their fields:
- Changemaker: Naeema Joji CA (Assistant Manager, RSM UK), for championing inclusion, social mobility, and early-career engagement.
- Ethical Leader: Michael Oates CA (Partner, RSM UK), for his commitment to mentoring and developing new talent.
- Innovator: Pete Cowan CA (Operations Director, Hall Morrice), for leading best practice in digital transformation.
