Lee-Anne Macpherson CA(SA), 34

Finalist: Transformative Leader | SAICA Top-35-Under-35 Awards 2025

Lee-Anne Macpherson is a senior lecturer, mentor, and changemaker whose work is transforming accounting education and empowering future leaders. At 34, she brings a rare blend of technical excellence, compassion, and innovation to every space she enters — from lecture halls to community forums.

As a Senior Lecturer in the Auditing division at Nelson Mandela University (NMU), Lee-Anne coordinates multiple modules including Ethics, Corporate Governance, and Auditing 2. She also serves as the Thuthuka second-year coordinator and horizontal coordinator for second-year students across the department. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in inclusivity, engagement, and preparing students for the evolving demands of the profession.

Lee-Anne was instrumental in developing NMU’s first online classroom ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continuity of learning during disruption. She has embedded digital acumen into the curriculum, designing practicals using Sage Business Cloud, Sage 200 Evolution, and UiPath Studio X. Her work exposes students to automation, data analytics, and real-world business cycles — bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Her commitment to transformation goes beyond the classroom. She founded the Lee-Anne Bursary Fund, which supports learners from disadvantaged backgrounds with university access, mentorship, and career guidance. She mentors Thuthuka bursary students, trainee accountants, interns, junior academic colleagues, and new staff members. She also teaches matric learners over weekends and has opened her home to students needing safe study spaces.

Lee-Anne’s impact extends into the community. She mentors small business owners, offering accounting advice and systems guidance. She serves on the boards of two non-profit companies focused on community upliftment and regularly speaks at disadvantaged schools in the Eastern Cape, inspiring learners to pursue education and leadership.

Her academic contributions include external moderation for multiple universities, including UKZN, Walter Sisulu University, UFS, and Boston City College. She was a reviewer for the SAICA Ethics Case Study textbook published by Lexis Nexis and has presented at national and international conferences, including SACLA and BAFA. Her research explores behavioural biases, social comparison, and their impact on work performance — with findings presented in Ireland and published in Accountancy SA.

Her collaborative spirit shines through initiatives like the Steinheist documentary screening, which united students across campuses and disciplines. She has partnered with EY on ethics projects and is currently working with a colleague on a VR simulation for Auditing 3 students, pushing the boundaries of immersive learning.

Her accolades include a nomination for the Beyond the Classroom Award, recognising her student-centred approach and dedication to holistic development.

Lee-Anne Macpherson leads with heart, vision, and purpose. Her work exemplifies the spirit of a Transformative Leader — one who not only teaches, but uplifts, innovates, and inspires across academia, industry, and society.