For the first time ever, SAIPA is proud to introduce the Mastery Circle Awards – an initiative to recognise and celebrate the incredible achievements of our members.
These awards are not just about trophies; they are about telling the stories of the accountancy professionals who are making a difference – those who lead with integrity, inspire innovation and help shape the future of the profession.
Now is the time to shine a light on SAIPA members who are raising the bar and redefining what it means to be a Professional Accountant.
You can also complete this pdf Nominations form and email it directly to awards@saipa.co.za
Award Categories
IMPACT AWARD
Recognises those who have created real, measurable change, whether for their clients, organisations, or communities.
LEADERSHIP AWARD
Celebrates district committee members who lead by example and help build stronger connections within SAIPA.
PARTNER AWARD
Honours our partners for their dedication, creative ideas, and valuable contributions to SAIPA’s mission.
EMERGING CATALYST AWARD
Shines a spotlight on young professionals under 30 who are making waves early in their careers through innovation, leadership, and fresh ideas.
LEGACY AWARD (SAIPA CHAIRPERSON’S AWARD)
A tribute to senior leaders who have left a lasting mark on the profession through vision, mentorship, and outstanding leadership.
Criteria Guidelines
Impact Award
Nominees for the Impact Award should provide narrative or evidence that demonstrates their ability to:
- Demonstrate how they have earned trust, ensured client satisfaction, and maintained long-lasting relationships through personalised and exceptional service.
- Share examples of how their advice or actions have helped clients achieve financial success or navigate challenges.
- Describe their involvement in complex financial projects, such as mergers, acquisitions, or restructuring, and how their leadership positively impacted the results.
- If relevant, discuss their role in improving policies or governance practices, focusing on the reasons behind these changes, teamwork involved, and the results achieved.
Provide examples of how they have upheld ethical standards, inspired others, or strengthened public financial management or governance.
Leadership Award
- Examples of how they have taken an active role in leading SAIPA district or regional initiatives, including the ways their leadership influenced positive outcomes.
- Stories of meaningful and successful interactions with members, highlighting how these efforts strengthened relationships and addressed member needs.
- Contributions to the growth and development of new committee members, showcasing their ability to mentor, inspire, and guide others to succeed.
- Descriptions of how their efforts have positively influenced membership growth, retention, or satisfaction in their district or region, with a focus on the strategies and personal contributions behind these outcomes.
SAIPA Partner Award
Nominees for the SAIPA Partner Award should provide narrative or evidence that highlights:
- How the partnership has supported SAIPA’s mission through joint events, programs, or initiatives.
- Consistent involvement and meaningful support for SAIPA’s goals.
- Creative ideas or projects that have benefited SAIPA members.
Recognition from SAIPA leadership for their contributions.
Emerging Catalyst Award
- Examples of notable accomplishments early in their career, such as promotions, leadership roles, or recognition for exceptional performance.
- Stories of how they introduced new ideas, solved challenges, or showed creativity and initiative in their workplace or field.
- Evidence of emerging leadership skills, including taking on responsibilities that inspire or guide others, even at an early career stage.
- Participation in professional networks, SAIPA events, or activities that contribute to the growth of the profession.
- Completion of professional certifications or qualifications that showcase their dedication to advancing their expertise and career.
Legacy Award
- How their leadership directly contributed to achieving significant milestones or transformations within their organisation.
- Examples of strategic decisions they made that brought meaningful success or innovation to their organisation or industry.
- Testimonials or recognition from peers, colleagues, or industry bodies that highlight their exceptional leadership and influence.
- Long-term contributions that have positively shaped or developed the profession, such as mentoring, thought leadership, or policy advocacy.
Why You Should Enter or Nominate Someone
Winning a SAIPA Mastery Circle Award is more than an achievement – it’s an opportunity to:
- Be Recognised as a leader in your field.
- Build Your Profile in the profession and gain valuable exposure.
- Inspire Others with your story.
- Connect with like-minded professionals and industry leaders.
Winners will be featured in SAIPA’s publications, showcased on our website and social media and invited to exclusive events.
How It Works
The awards process is simple and transparent:
- Nominate – Submit your nomination by 7 March 2025. Nominate a colleague, partner or even yourself by filling out the nomination form and attaching any supporting documents.
- Evaluation – Every nomination will be carefully reviewed to ensure it meets the criteria.
- Judging – An independent panel of experts and SAIPA representatives will assess the nominees based on their achievements and impact.
- Finalists Announced – Shortlisted nominees will be contacted in early March. The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony.
- Awards Ceremony – Join us at the Accounting iNdaba on 19 March 2025, where we’ll celebrate the winners and their incredible contributions.
How to Nominate
It’s easy!
- Fill out the Nomination Form – Tell us who you are nominating and why.
- Submit by 7 March 2025. Email your completed form and supporting documents to awards@saipa.co.za.
For full details and tips on how to submit a winning nomination, check out our Nomination Guidelines.
Why These Awards Matter
- Recognising Excellence: Celebrate SAIPA members who stand out in their fields – whether in business, public sector, academia or practice.
- Inspiring the Next Generation: Share success stories that encourage others to aim higher.
- Building Community: Bring members together, strengthening the SAIPA family.
- Honouring Our Partners: Thank the partners who support and grow with us.
Need Help?
For any questions or clarification on the nomination process, please contact us at awards@saipa.co.za.