UAE-based Pakistani wins 'Woman of the Year Award 2026'

UAE-based Chartered Accountant and Regional Senior Director – Advisory Services at athGADLANG, Khushboo Mushtaq, has been honoured with the CA Woman of the Year Award 2026 by Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan.

The award recognises women Chartered Accountants who have demonstrated professional excellence, leadership, commitment, and meaningful contributions to the accounting and finance profession.

Khushboo joined athGADLANG, a UAE-based management consulting firm, in 2016 and currently leads the firm’s Transaction Advisory and Financial Accounting practice across the region as Regional Senior Director.

Over the years, she has played a key role in expanding the service line across multiple jurisdictions in the Middle East, building a practice that has grown significantly in both scale and revenue contribution. Her journey, which also includes earlier experience with EY and BDO, has reinforced her belief that resilience, accountability, and growing alongside your team matter far more than titles.

Speaking about the recognition, Khushboo said: “This award is deeply meaningful to me. It reflects a journey built through consistency, learning, resilience, and the support of many people along the way. I am grateful to ICAP, the CA Women Committee, and the leadership of the Institute for recognising women professionals and creating platforms that encourage us to keep moving forward.”

Beyond her corporate role, Khushboo has remained actively involved with ICAP’s UAE Chapter since 2017. She currently serves as Chairperson of the UAE Chapter, leading member engagement, professional development initiatives, networking platforms, and knowledge-sharing events for Chartered Accountants across the UAE.

Khushboo is also passionate about mentoring young professionals, particularly women entering the accounting and finance profession. Through mentorship, networking support, and professional guidance, she continues to advocate for greater representation, confidence, and leadership among women in finance.

As a UAE resident and Pakistani Chartered Accountant, Khushboo’s achievement is a proud moment for the CA fraternity and reflects the growing role of women in accounting, advisory, leadership, and community building.

For young women pursuing careers in finance, her message remains simple: “Keep learning, keep showing up, and keep believing in your journey. Your work matters, your voice has value, and your consistency will open doors you may not even see today.”