Joannah Marie Pena
CPA

Ms. Joannah Pena’s journey began in Lipa City, Batangas, where she was raised by her father along with her younger brother, while her mother worked in the United States to provide for their family. Like many Filipino families, this separation was challenging, but it enabled Ms. Pena to attend good schools, such as the University of Santo Tomas, and eventually move to the US.

At 21, during her last year of college, Ms. Pena’s mother petitioned for her to join her in the US. By the time the petition was approved, she had graduated and was preparing for the CPA Board Exam. Her visa required her to travel to the US a few days before the exam, meaning she couldn’t take it. This period was confusing, and the reality of moving to the US didn’t fully sink in until her petition was approved, requiring a swift recalibration of her life plans.

Upon arriving in the US, Ms. Pena’s career began by chance. Her aunt worked at a Filipino-owned small business and brought her to the office to keep her company while she was jobless. An adjacent business owner offered her a receptionist job, which she accepted, but quickly left due to safety concerns.

Recognizing the need for relevant work experience to complement her accounting degree, Ms. Pena decided to take the California CPA Exam. She submitted her transcript for evaluation to ensure she had enough college credits. While waiting for the evaluation results, she found another receptionist job through her aunt’s friend, which exposed her to the US work environment but was short-lived as she wanted to focus on her CPA studies.

Passing the CPA Exam was a significant milestone, but to earn the CPA title, Ms. Pena needed a year of accounting experience under a licensed CPA. Finding such a job proved challenging, as most entry-level positions were filled through campus recruitment. Eventually, through connections within the Filipino community, she secured an Accounting Assistant position, which, although not qualifying for the CPA experience requirement, was a crucial step forward.

Years of dedication and perseverance finally paid off when Ms. Pena achieved her CPA license through her next employer, where she has since been promoted twice. Her journey, marked by prayer, patience, and support from her family and friends, demonstrates her resilience and commitment.

Reflecting on her career path, Ms. Pena attributes her success to her supportive family, quality education, and the kindness of people who helped her along the way. She acknowledges the challenges of starting an accounting career in the US but emphasizes the importance of holding onto dreams and working diligently towards them.

Ms. Pena is most proud of earning her CPA license, a testament to her years of hard work and determination. Her Filipino heritage, characterized by strong work ethics and appreciation for opportunities, has significantly influenced her journey. The support of fellow Filipino-Americans, from her mentors to her bosses, has been invaluable.

Community plays a vital role in Ms. Pena’s life. The guidance and support from the Filipino-American community have been crucial in her career. She looks forward to seeing how organizations like UFAP can further bring Filipino-American professionals together, fostering mutual support and growth.

For young Filipino-American professionals, Ms. Pena advises patience and faith. Starting anew in a different country is challenging, but every small step towards one’s goal is significant. She stresses the importance of community and the value of paying forward the help and kindness received.

Currently, Ms. Pena is not involved in any specific ventures or initiatives but remains passionate about supporting the Filipino-American community and encouraging others on their professional journeys.