Exciting Developments in Atlanta: Yelena Epova and Her Impact on the Community
Atlanta is buzzing with energy as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of some fantastic individuals making strides in the community. One standout this week is Yelena Epova, a well-respected leader at Aprio, who has recently garnered accolades for her steadfast commitment to both her profession and her community. Yelena has been named one of Forbes’ Top 200 CPAs of 2024—a testament to her leadership and influence in the accounting field.
A Glimpse into Yelena’s Achievements
Since founding Aprio’s International Practice, Yelena has made waves by overseeing a diverse team of 400 professionals who speak over 60 languages. This incredible multicultural setup allows Aprio to serve clients across more than 50 countries, bringing global expertise to Atlanta. It’s not just about numbers for Yelena; it’s about making connections and fostering relationships that lead to meaningful partnerships.
Yelena’s recognition as a Woman of Influence in 2014 was just the beginning of her journey. As an advocate for minority business owners, she is a co-leader of Aprio’s Black Business Forum. This initiative is designed to uplift and support underrepresented entrepreneurs, providing them with valuable resources and networking opportunities. Yelena believes that success is best when shared, and her efforts highlight the importance of creating equitable business environments for everyone.
Community Engagement Beyond Business
But there’s more to Yelena than just numbers and leadership; she’s also a passionate supporter of the arts in Atlanta. Serving on the boards of both the Atlanta Ballet and the Atlanta Symphony, she helps champion cultural growth in the city. Recently, she co-hosted the Atlanta Ballet Black and White Ball, a thrilling event that showcased not only her commitment to the arts but also her desire to integrate community and culture.
Through her role in the Atlanta Rotary Club, Yelena engages with community members to promote business and civic leadership. The focus on community betterment is something she champions at every turn, believing that a thriving city is built upon the shoulders of its dedicated residents.
New Faces in Atlanta
While Yelena’s accomplishments are sweeping the headlines, there are also other exciting developments in Atlanta’s business landscape. Jen has just been named the new Vice President of Tech and Entrepreneurship at Invest Atlanta, bringing over two decades of experience in tech entrepreneurship. Her wealth of knowledge will be vital in nurturing the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, paving the way for innovative solutions and tech advancements in the area.
Additionally, Jimmy Shanken of Hinesville was honored as the 2024 Georgia REALTOR of the Year, a recognition representing over 47,000 Realtors across Georgia. This honor showcases the importance of hard work and dedication in the real estate field.
In the architectural arena, Cari Gerrits has joined LS3P in their Atlanta office, focusing on fostering strategic partnerships. Meanwhile, Sam Farmer brings his experience in commercial real estate to SK Commercial Realty as Vice President, continuing to shape Atlanta’s dynamic real estate scene.
Wrapping Up the Excitement
All these exciting developments highlight the vibrant pulse of Atlanta, filled with individuals and initiatives committed to growth and excellence. As we move forward, it’s clear that leaders like Yelena Epova and others are paving the way for a brighter future, ensuring that Atlanta remains a hub of innovation, culture, and community engagement.
Stay tuned for more updates on the city’s dynamic progress, and let’s celebrate the incredible journey of our local leaders!
