The ICAS Foundation proudly marked the culmination of its 10th Anniversary year with a celebratory event on Tuesday 3rd December 2024.
Hosted in Yotel Edinburgh’s dramatic ImagineX 360 screening room, the evening brought together staff, students, alumni, board members, mentors, partners, and friends to commemorate a decade of milestones and achievements.
Guests had the opportunity to hear from the Chair of Trustees, Norman Murray CBE, who reflected on the Foundation's impact over the past decade, emphasising its role in transforming lives and breaking down barriers.
This was followed by an inspiring speech from ICAS Foundation Graduate Dylan Palmer, now training at EY, who shared an account of his personal journey and the support he received from the Foundation. The evening continued with ICAS Foundation Director Sanjay Singh, who introduced a brand new video showcasing the work of the Foundation
Dylan Palmer
The film, created to honour the Foundation’s legacy and highlight its future aspirations, was showcased in the ImagineX 360 screening room, a striking feature of Edinburgh’s Yotel."
Filmed throughout 2024 in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, the video features the voices and stories of students, alumni ambassadors, and mentors, encapsulating the Foundation’s impact and vision for the future.
Ryan Brown, an Alumni Ambassador and one of the stars of the video, said: “The ICAS Foundation creates more than opportunities—it creates connections that last a lifetime. I was delighted to be asked to share my story and hopefully it can inspire others.”
ICAS Foundation Alumni Ambassador Ryan Brown
Mentor Amy Vincent echoed this sentiment, saying, “Mentoring with the ICAS Foundation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Seeing how empowered students are from the support reminds me of the importance of giving back. This event is an important reflection of the impact over the past 10 years and makes me excited to see what the ICAS Foundation will continue to achieve”
ICAS Foundation Mentor Amy Vincent and Mentee Dawood Ilyas
As the evening drew to a close, Director Sanjay Singh shared a powerful message: “While we’re incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made over the last decade, this milestone isn’t just a moment to look back—it’s an opportunity to look forward. Our mission remains clear: to continue working an accountancy profession without unnecessary barriers to entry – where every talented young person has the opportunity, and support to pursue a successful career, regardless of their background.”
ICAS Foundation Director Sanjay Singh
The ICAS Foundation’s 10th Anniversary celebration was more than a reflection on the past; it was a celebration of the vibrant community that has made the last decade possible and a launchpad for the exciting journey ahead.
Photography by Paul Watt