Celebrating our inspirational AAT membership community
The AAT Impact Awards recognised the achievements of exceptional individuals across the AAT community.
This year’s awards celebrated members from all backgrounds, championing diversity, inclusion and innovation at every level.
Nominees and winners gained recognition for their impact and inspiration to others across the profession.
The event was a resounding success, filled with vibrant networking, delicious food, and a positive atmosphere that left everyone feeling energised and connected.
We’re already looking forward to welcoming everyone back next year for another unforgettable celebration.
AAT Outstanding Contribution Award (formerly AAT Past President's Award)
Winner: Grace Hardy
Grace’s outstanding contribution centres around revolutionising how the accounting profession attracts, educates, and develops young talent through innovative digital education and strategic partnerships.
Judges were particularly impressed with Grace’s dedication to supporting other young and aspiring accounting professionals, which aligns with AAT’s goal of making careers in finance accessible for everyone. In addition, judges commended Grace’s impact in supporting SMEs, directly helping over 20,000 small businesses through workshops and webinars.
Grace’s outstanding contribution was also recognised outside of AAT and the wider profession, culminating in winning the Department of Education’s Special Achievement Award and an invitation to meet the royal family.
Shortlisted
- Andy Murray
- Aaron Patrick
- Dean Quartermaine
- Karyn Kobi-Jackson
- Majed Ali
- Melanie Walker
AAT Bookkeeper of the Year Award
Winner: Em Manchee
Em impressed the judges with her professionalism, resilience, and clear commitment to supporting clients above and beyond expectations.
Her dedication to high standards and the positive impact she has on those around her made her really stand out in this category.
Shortlisted
- Sarah Green
- Laura Meredith
AAT Financial Leadership Award
Winner: Emma Hannant
Judges were impressed with Emma’s incredible determination to succeed, in following her goal of becoming a finance director.
Emma has created a culture of positivity and continual learning, and through her leadership has transformed the charity finance systems.
Recognised by her trustees, she has progressed from Financial Controller to Finance Director, before becoming CEO and surpassing her original goal – displaying what’s possible through determination and a desire to chase your dreams.
Shortlisted
- Aaron Blake
- Clare Elliott
- Sarah Cooper
- Rachael Chadwick-Harrison
Libby Walklett
Libby Walklett is an award-winning AAT accountant and founder of The Ethical Bookkeeper Ltd. Libby is known for her dedication to small businesses and her passion for ethical practice. A former AAT trustee and current Chair of the Gloucestershire AAT branch, she also serves on AAT’ Members’ Advisory Council.
Sam Gooding
Founder of Gooding Accounts and a qualified AAT accountant since 1998, Sam is dedicated to mentoring and supporting fellow members in practice. As a strong advocate for mental health, Sam brings a modern, empathetic voice to the profession and the AAT community.
