Celebrating Our 2025 Trailblazers: Yamila Pons, CPA

Meet Yamila Pons, CPA

Yamila Pons, CPA, has emerged as a beacon of leadership and inclusion within her community and profession, seamlessly blending dedication and compassion to leave a lasting impact. From serving on boards that champion equity for underserved and diverse communities to mentoring colleagues as a career advisor, Yamila's journey is one of resilience and purpose.

A proud recipient of Eide Bailly’s Tulsa Office Rising Star Award and a graduate of the AICPA Leadership Academy, she continues to push boundaries and uplift others in the accounting field. Rooted in the values instilled by her immigrant parents, Yamila is driven to create opportunities, foster meaningful connections, and inspire the next generation of leaders to thrive in spaces where they might have felt overlooked. As she prepares for her new role on the OSCPA Board of Directors, Yamila's unwavering commitment to equity and mentorship marks her as a true trailblazer in the profession.

What She Has to Say

OSCPA: What has been your greatest achievement in your community or professional career so far?

Pons: Serving on multiple boards focusing on underserved and diverse communities has been a fulfilling endeavor. These roles have allowed me to contribute to initiatives that promote equity and inclusion, addressing the needs of those who are often overlooked. I am also proud of the impact I’ve been able to make on my co-workers in my role as a career advisor by offering steadfast support and mentorship. From receiving the Rising Star Award for Eide Bailly’s Tulsa office to attending the AICPA Leadership Academy, I look forward to continuing to grow as a leader, connect with other professionals, and further develop the skills needed to make an impact in the accounting field.

OSCPA: Who has been your greatest inspiration in your life, and why?

Pons: I have come across many amazing people—friends, colleagues, and professors—but my greatest inspiration in life will always be my parents. My parents, along with my siblings and I, migrated to the U.S. over 20 years ago, leaving everything behind in hopes of a better future. Their unwavering support and encouragement motivate me to pursue my dreams and overcome obstacles. They have taught me the value of hard work and determination and how to find solutions when faced with challenges. Their resilience and dedication have profoundly shaped the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for the sacrifices they have made for our family.

OSCPA: What motivated you to get involved with the OSCPA?

Pons: I always knew once I completed my CPA and had more ‘free time,’ I would join an organization or board. The OSCPA was the perfect fit to help achieve this goal. I was eager to get involved and signed up for the OSCPA’s Accounting Careers and Young Accounting Professionals committees on the day of my CPA recognition ceremony. I also became active with my local OSCPA Tulsa Chapter, where I took on the role of networking committee chair. Currently, I remain actively involved in the Tulsa Chapter’s networking outreach efforts. Starting in 2025, I will serve on the OSCPA Board of Directors as a director-at-large. Being part of the OSCPA and the local chapter, has not only allowed me to grow personally and professionally but has also reinforced my passion for creating spaces where accountants—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—can connect, learn, and thrive.

OSCPA: What do you hope to accomplish in your career?

Pons: As a minority woman, I hope to be an example for other minorities, both women and men, showing that success in an accounting career is not only possible but attainable with dedication and perseverance. Like me, many did not grow up with an accountant in their lives to guide them or show them a clear path forward. Beyond serving as a role model, I want to help create opportunities for underrepresented individuals, whether through mentorship, community outreach, or initiatives that promote financial literacy and career development.

Accomplishments