In celebration of Black History Month, GHJ is proud to share the inspiring stories of four Black professionals who are breaking barriers and shaping futures within the Firm. Black professionals remain underrepresented in the accounting and finance industry. A study by the Journal of Accountancy noted that Black professionals make up just 2 percent of all Certified Public Accountants in the U.S.

As a member of GHJ’s BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and Persons of Color) Cohort, I spoke with four GHJ team members about how their experiences have shaped their professional journey and how to foster a culture where diverse perspectives are represented and supported.

FINDING PURPOSE: THE ROLE OF IDENTITY IN A CAREER JOURNEY

Career choices are often shaped by exposure, mentorship and personal experiences. According to research, a significant 48 percent of individuals report that their family had a strong influence on their career paths, highlighting the pivotal role of familial guidance in professional development. GHJ Audit and Assurance team member Aliyyah Joseph’s family played a crucial role in introducing her to accounting. 

“My family’s network gave me early exposure to the industry,” she shares. “That opportunity helped me see the potential in myself and others from similar backgrounds.” 

Family influences are often pivotal in shaping career choices, but socioeconomic factors are equally critical. Research suggests that experiencing adversity, particularly during childhood, can significantly influence career choice, and often leads people to select careers that align with their experiences of hardship. GHJ Tax team member Tynisha Marcel’s career journey was shaped by the financial literacy gaps that impacted her community, which fueled her passion for tax education. 

“I wanted to help people better navigate taxes and financial planning,” she explains. “I am passionate about making sure everyone has the tools to succeed financially.”

Astride Mukabagula’s career path was shaped by resilience. After fleeing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Astride found stability in Uganda, where she developed a love for business and problem-solving. By the age of 15, she was running her own jewelry boutique. 

"The independence of making my own business choices and working with numbers fascinated me,” she says. Today, as a member of GHJ’s Audit and Assurance Practice, she continues to channel her determination into her professional journey.

For Emily Bowen, who assists GHJ with resource management, a career in operations was a natural extension of her passion for helping others. 

“I grew up in a family of educators, doctors and writers who overcame so much adversity,” she explains. “Being surrounded by highly educated and passionate people inspired me to believe I could do absolutely anything.”

Despite the differences in their paths, a common thread emerges — each of these professionals found ways to turn their personal experiences into purpose-driven careers.

UNDERREPRESENTATION AND THE CHALLENGES OF BEING “THE ONLY ONE”

Walking into a room and being the only Black person there is an experience shared by many Black professionals, and for some, it begins long before entering the workforce. 

Emily, who attended private schools for 17 years, recalls how this shaped her. 

“When I was younger, it felt isolating,” she explains. “But as I got older, I learned to appreciate my background and use it to enrich my career.”

Astride’s experience mirrors this, especially as a Black woman in accounting. 

“I frequently felt underrepresented in my field, particularly in meetings or departments where I was one of the only Black women present,” she shares. “It led to moments of doubt, but I overcame these obstacles by forming mentorships, joining professional groups and advocating for greater inclusion.”

While their environments may be different, their experiences reflect a broader issue — representation matters. Seeing others who share one’s background in leadership positions significantly enhances the sense of belonging. Research highlighted in the Harvard Business Review found that a strong sense of belonging was associated with a 56 percent improvement in job performance, a 50 percent decrease in turnover risk and a 75 percent reduction in sick days.

BUILDING COMMUNITY AND ADVOCATING FOR INCLUSION

Having a robust support network can significantly enhance job satisfaction, with an increase by as much as 85 percent. Aliyyah and Tynisha have thrived by engaging with peers and mentors who share their experiences. 

"I turned moments of feeling isolated into opportunities to push forward and create more space for diversity in my field," Tynisha explains to highlight the proactive steps she has taken to foster inclusion.

Similarly, Forbes reports that individuals who receive mentorship develop skills more quickly and are five times more likely to be promoted than those without mentors. Astride has actively embraced this by participating in professional groups and mentorship initiatives. 

“I joined the Colorado Society of CPAs DEI initiative, attended conferences and connected with African women accountants nationwide,” she shares. “These communities have been instrumental in my growth.”

Emily noted that finding and embracing these growth opportunities may require a shift in mindset. 

“I have learned to use my background as an asset rather than a barrier,” she says. “It has allowed me to acknowledge both my own biases and the biases of others, which has been a powerful tool for professional and personal growth.”

The discussion around representation goes beyond merely increasing the number of Black professionals in the industry. It is crucial to cultivate an environment where they feel supported, valued and heard. 

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION: OWNING YOUR IDENTITY

For young Black professionals entering their careers, the path forward can feel daunting, but the advice from these four professionals is clear — embrace one’s identity and use it as a strength.

Aliyyah encourages others to view the lack of representation as an opportunity. 

“Do not be discouraged by the numbers,” she advises. “See it as motivation to increase representation for the next generation.”

Tynisha echoes this sentiment. 

“Your identity is not a barrier — it is a benefit,” she explains. “Use your perspective to bring something unique to the table.”

For Emily, the key is confidence and self-belief. 

“Never let limiting beliefs hold you back,” she says. “Invest in relationships, find mentors and never stop learning.”

Astride emphasizes the importance of building connections. 

“Join local and national professional groups, seek out diverse mentors and invest in your professionalism,” she advises. “The more you engage with different perspectives, the more opportunities will open up.”

GHJ’S COMMITMENT TO DEIA: TURNING WORDS INTO ACTION

The experiences of these professionals underscore why diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) must be more than just talking points. GHJ remains committed to fostering a workplace that supports belonging, mentorship and professional growth for all. Through initiatives like GHJ’s BIPOC Cohort and continued investment in DEIA strategies, GHJ aims to create an environment where professionals of all backgrounds can thrive. 

During Black History Month (and throughout the rest of the year), these stories highlight the importance of intentional action in supporting Black professionals. Whether through mentorship, advocacy or simply listening, each individual plays a role in creating a more inclusive workplace. The future of accounting is brighter when all voices are heard.