Redefining Leadership Through Sustainability and Inclusion

The world is at an inflection point. From climate disruption to economic inequality, the challenges we face are vast, interconnected and urgent. Yet, amidst uncertainty, there is opportunity. To redefine leadership, realign business purpose, and reimagine the role of finance as a force for public good.

As President of ACCA and a finance professional rooted in the Global South, I have seen the transformative potential of sustainable finance. At ACCA, sustainability is not an afterthought. It is a cornerstone of our global strategy. Our ambition to achieve Net Zero by 2030 underpins every operational decision we make. But it doesn’t stop at our own footprint. We are equipping over 250,000 members and future members worldwide with the tools, insight and training to embed sustainability within business.

Our Accounting for a Better World report and dedicated Sustainability Hub reflect our commitment to helping the profession respond to the climate crisis, social inequity, and evolving expectations of business accountability. In Pakistan, the urgency is particularly real. The SECP has already initiated phased adoption of the ISSB’s IFRS S1 and S2 sustainability disclosure standards. The implications for finance professionals are immense.

That’s why ACCA is stepping up. We are rolling out learning pathways such as the Professional Diploma in Sustainability and Certificate in Sustainability for Finance, a CPD course on sustainability reporting, and thought leadership articles on ESG. These efforts are about more than compliance. They empower our members to lead with purpose and build business models that are resilient, inclusive and future-focused.

Finance professionals occupy a powerful position. At the nexus of capital allocation and strategy, they influence decisions that shape economies. By embedding environmental and social risks into planning and performance frameworks, they can help businesses transition to net zero, manage sustainability risks, and unlock long-term value. Our Green Finance Skills: The Guide and climate finance training tools support them in doing just that.

ACCA is also strengthening our core qualifications. Modules such as Strategic Business Leader and Advanced Performance Management now incorporate ESG strategy, climate risk, and non-financial metrics. New microlearning tools, including “Finance and the Net Zero Transition”, ensure professionals can keep pace with an evolving global agenda.
But sustainability cannot be achieved in isolation. It is intrinsically linked to inclusion. I am proud to serve as ACCA’s first South Asian and Muslim woman President. My leadership reflects ACCA’s belief that diversity is not just a value, it is a strategic advantage. Through initiatives like Leading Inclusion and regional Women in Finance forums, we continue to challenge the structures that limit talent and amplify the voices that redefine it.

This matters now more than ever. Because the sustainable business of tomorrow demands inclusive leadership today. Finance professionals must bring not only technical skill but ethical grounding and lived experience. They must be champions of governance, sustainability, and social equity.

Pakistan has a pivotal role to play. With its youth-driven demography, growing tech sector, and potential in green infrastructure, the country can lead in forging a new economic narrative. ACCA stands ready to support that journey, by empowering professionals with the knowledge, networks and values to create meaningful impact.

The time to act is now. Not just to mitigate risk but to seize opportunity. Not just to meet targets but to lead transformation. Not just to report on the future, but to shape it.

This article is written by Ayla Majid. She serves as Global President for ACCA.