Black. Female. CPA. Unapologetically Taking Up Space.
Looking around my corner of the fintech world, it hits me every single day - I'm often the only Black female CPA in the room. I can count all the others I know in tech on one hand, and that reality weighs on me. If you're out there, another Black woman navigating this space, I'd love to connect. Sometimes this journey feels a little too lonely.
As we enter Black History Month (I am not canceling mine), I want to highlight some amazing role models for us Black accountants. Let's talk about Mary T. Washington Wylie.
In 1943, Mary T. Washington Wylie became America's first Black woman CPA - an achievement that moves me when I think about it. Working full-time while attending night school, she didn't just break barriers - she shattered them.
But what truly inspires me is what she did next: she built one of the largest Black-owned accounting firms and trained over 100 Black CPAs. That's like the accounting version of building your own table and then adding ALL the extra leaves! She understood something fundamental - success means nothing if you don't hold the door open for others.
The numbers still tell a sobering story – of the approximately 658,000 CPAs today, only about 2% are Black. Mary's spirit reminds us that numbers are meant to be changed.
In this age of artificial intelligence and increasing requirements, it sometimes feels like we're facing new versions of old barriers. Mary's legacy reminds me that change is possible, even when it seems impossible.
To my Black (female) CPAs out there, I see you! Yes, the journey might feel lonely sometimes. Yes, you might be the only one in some rooms, being demoralized by the thickest glass ceilings. But remember – Mary T. Washington Wylie did this thing with paper ledgers and pencils. We've got AI, Excel, Google Sheets, AND her legacy backing us up. We've got this! 💪🏾
To those considering this path - we need your voice, your perspective, your brilliance. Mary showed us that one person really can transform an industry. Together, we can continue her work… do not get discouraged by the news, the politics, technology and the monochromous room… they are all opportunities for you to showcase your brilliance.
If you're out there feeling alone in this field, know that you're part of a legacy of excellence and determination. Let's connect (I am happy to add you to our Slack group), support each other, and build the inclusive future our profession needs.
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