Meet the campaign stars – Nichole Ama, ACA

Can you tell us a bit about your current role and what it involves?

I work on the non-audit side of general practice, managing a portfolio of SME clients. My role involves overseeing statutory compliance and providing business advisory services. Beyond client work, I’m actively involved in the firm’s social mobility initiatives and business development. I also serve as a training manager for ACA students, supporting their career progression and overseeing their training files.

What’s a typical day like for you?

A typical day starts with setting up my team to prepare accounts and corporation tax returns. I then review the work, liaise with partners and clients, and ensure everything is finalised and submitted. I also handle a range of ad hoc client queries, from bookkeeping issues to tax planning advice.

What inspired you to pursue the ACA qualification?

Having studied accounting at A-level and university, pursuing the ACA felt like the natural next step in completing my journey. I was always drawn to the ACA over other qualifications because of its prestige and the quality of training it offers. I even turned down job offers that didn’t include the ACA route – I knew it was the right fit for me.

How has becoming an ICAEW Chartered Accountant impacted your career?

The impact has been greater than I ever imagined. Technically, the ACA has equipped me to excel in my role, but the journey itself – especially the challenges I faced with the exams – taught me resilience and determination. That experience sparked a passion for helping others, and I’ve since been involved in initiatives that have become the most rewarding part of my job. The ICAEW has embraced my story and given me a platform to share it, showing that they truly support their members beyond the qualification.

Which aspect of the updated ACA qualification do you find most impactful?

The Specialised Learning is incredibly impactful. In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing environment, having access to relevant, up-to-date material is essential. What excites me most is that students will be learning skills they can immediately apply in their roles. The new approach ensures that knowledge sticks and builds a strong foundation for future growth.

What advice would you give someone just starting their ACA qualification?

Build a study group, whether it’s with your firm’s cohort or students from your training provider. The material is tough, but what I found hardest was the isolation of studying while others around me weren’t going through the same process. Having a support network helps not just with studying, but emotionally too. Also, don’t hesitate to seek additional support. I wish I had reached out to resources like caba earlier. They were a huge help, and I’m so grateful for their support.

What skills do you think are essential for future ICAEW Chartered Accountants?

Beyond technical expertise, I believe client relationship and interpersonal skills are absolutely essential. With technology advancing rapidly, many technical aspects of our roles are being streamlined, but what technology can’t replicate is the personal touch. Clients value the human connection: the conversations, the support, and even the small details like remembering their dog’s name. That’s what builds trust and long-term relationships.

There’s often an expectation that accountants know everything (even at junior level!), but it’s the way we interact that truly sets us apart. Since COVID, face-to-face interaction has declined, and we’ve become used to not even knowing what our clients look like. So, having the confidence to pick up the phone and have a meaningful conversation is a skill that will really distinguish future ICAEW Chartered Accountants.

How do you balance studying, work and your personal life?

This was definitely the hardest part of my training, and honestly, something I didn’t always manage well. The key for me was accepting that sacrifices to my personal time were inevitable. Having a study group would have really helped fill the social gap. It’s not just about sharing notes but having people who understand what you’re going through. Studying in isolation can take a toll on your mental health, and that can affect your performance. So, finding ways to stay connected and supported is essential.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your professional journey so far?

One of the most rewarding moments was sharing the news with my family that I had passed the ACA. I secretly filmed their reactions as I revealed a t-shirt that said, “I passed” and their responses were emotional, dramatic, and hilarious! I posted the video on social media, and it resonated with so many people, gaining nearly a million views across platforms. The most meaningful part was reading the comments – people who were mid-way through their own accounting journey said it gave them the motivation to keep going. Others discovered the ACA for the first time through that video. It was a beautiful reminder of how powerful sharing your story can be.

Who has had the biggest influence on your life so far, and why?

My mum – I had the privilege of watching her build a life for us from scratch after moving to the UK with two kids at just 25, leaving her family behind to give my sister and me a better future. She started with nothing, yet managed to secure a role at a prestigious university, complete a master’s degree, start charities, and become a respected figure in the community. When I reflect on her journey – especially imagining myself in her shoes at that age – I’m filled with admiration! Her strength and sacrifice inspire me to keep pushing forward and make her proud.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

When I finished studying, I expected to feel a huge sense of freedom, but instead I felt a bit lost. I hadn’t realised how much studying had structured my life. So naturally, I did what any normal person would do – signed up for more studying! I’m currently exploring more creative interests like interior design, and I’m also working towards a Corporate Finance certification to deepen my ACA knowledge in an area I found interesting.

Outside of that, I love to travel, spend time with friends and family, and stay active through the gym and my local run club. I’ve found that keeping a balance of creativity, learning, and movement keeps me energised and fulfilled.