The Association of International Accountants (AIA) was proud to attend the Grand Finale of the JEL ISABC and Edupro Green Talent Awards 2025 at the University of Leeds, a global celebration of young innovators addressing sustainability and social challenges.
As a Green Ambassador for the awards, AIA reinforced its commitment to sustainability, ethical business leadership, and empowering the next generation of changemakers. AIA Chief Executive Philip Turnbull served on the judging panel, bringing his expertise in sustainable innovation and governance to the evaluation of youth-led projects.
AIA was also represented by AIA Lay Member, Sharon Jandu OBE (Managing Director of the NPH Ethnic Minority Business & Policy Forum, and Founder of the Yorkshire Asian Business Association) who attended the awards as a special guest and delivered an inspiring speech. Her address encouraged young people to embrace innovation, diversity, and collaboration as essential drivers of a sustainable global economy.
The Edupro Green Talent Awards is a pioneering initiative that empowers young people aged 16 to 32 to tackle real-world sustainability challenges through case-based problem-solving, mentorship, and recognition. Participants gain practical experience applying green skills, earn stackable credentials aligned with the Edupro Sustainable Learning and Qualifications Framework, and are recognised as Green Talent Leaders on a global stage. This year, 156 teams from 20 countries competed, presenting innovative solutions across environmental, social, and economic challenges.
AIA congratulates the winners, Team EcoSquires from the Philippines, for their outstanding project EcoCycle. Their initiative transforms school paper waste into recycled notebooks and supplies, creating a student-led circular economy under the motto Buy Green. Give Back. Start the Cycle. The team impressed the judges with a presentation that combined creativity, feasibility, inclusivity, and social impact, demonstrating how youth-led projects can drive meaningful, scalable change.
Carl Jepson, AIA Director of Sales and Marketing, said, The Grand Finale was a fantastic celebration of innovation and sustainability. It was inspiring to see how young people from across the globe are tackling real-world challenges and leading the way towards a greener future. We are proud to support them on their journey.
Through its role as Green Ambassador, AIA continues to champion environmental awareness, promote responsible business practices, and support young changemakers in becoming global sustainability leaders. The event highlighted the importance of education, mentorship, and international collaboration in equipping young people to lead the green transition.
This aligns closely with AIA’s mission to integrate sustainability into professional practice and finance. By encouraging young innovators to develop solutions that balance environmental, social, and economic considerations, AIA reinforces the importance of ethical finance, sustainable business strategy, and responsible accountancy in building a greener, more equitable future.
Congratulations to Team EcoSquires and all participants for their remarkable achievements and for demonstrating the power of youth to drive real change in sustainability.
The Grand Finale was a fantastic celebration of innovation and sustainability. It was inspiring to see how young people from across the globe are tackling real-world challenges and leading the way towards a greener future. We are proud to support them on their journey.
Carl Jepson, Director of Sales & Marketing, AIA
