Former North East Scotland College (NESCol) student Kate Wolska, 38, who returned to education after 20 years, won the MHA Excellence in Accounting Award after being selected by her tutors.

She is now working with MHA as an audit and accounts junior in the firm’s Aberdeen office, previously known as Meston Reid & Co.

Ms Wolska moved to Aberdeen 16 years ago from Gdansk, Poland. After a varied career, including working as an optical assistant and in administration in care homes, she recently graduated from NESCol with a higher national diploma in accounting.

She is mum to nine-year-old daughter, Nicola, and enjoys camping in the Scottish countryside with family and friends. She also volunteers for Olio, collecting food and sharing it with those who need it, fighting waste and supporting the planet.

Ms Wolska said: “I’m so delighted to win this award. I was surprised, I couldn’t believe the award was for me. My hard work paid off and proved you can make a change now for tomorrow.

“I came from Poland in search of a better future. It wasn’t easy at first but I’m happy where I am now and doing what I want to do.

“I’m genuinely excited to begin my career with MHA and look forward to progressing further within the company, contributing to the team, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.”

Louise Smith, audit and accounts manager at MHA, said: “When we offered Kate a position, we had no idea that she had been, or would be, nominated for the award so it was a lovely surprise when I was told the recipient’s name.

“Kate hasn’t followed the traditional route into accounting of school followed by college/university, but I believe that makes her even more determined to succeed.

“I hope we will be able to provide Kate with a challenging and rewarding work experience and look forward to seeing her career continue to grow.”

The MHA Aberdeen office has trained more than 50 placement students and graduates since it began its training programme back in 1995.

Five new 2024 students started at the firm’s Aberdeen office in September, with another eight joining in Edinburgh.