AFA reveals Female Excellence in Advice finalists

The award is a joint initiative between the AFA and TAL that “celebrates women in financial advice who are making a significant contribution to their profession”, the AFA said in a statement.

This years’ finalists are Leapfrog LIFE’s Dominique Bergel-Grant, Lumix Wealth’s Joanna Ryan, Alta Financial Planning’s Tonina Ciarrocchi, Nicole Heales Financial’s eponymous Nicole Heales, Donna Lee Powell of DLP Life Design, and AHS Financial’s Heidi Schwegler.

Commenting on the awards, AFA chief executive Phil Kewin said the association was “delighted by the calibre of entries”.

“The passion and commitment to professionalism and improving the lives of their clients is second to none. The dedication these women are demonstrating towards improving our industry and encouraging more women to enter the advice profession is outstanding,” he said.

“The fact we have had a record number of nominations this year is really testament to the positive change the best advisers in our industry are making to the lives of their clients.”

TAL general manager for retail distribution Niall McConville said this years’ finalists were “clear standouts” and have demonstrated both business success and contributions to their communities.

“We congratulate all of this year’s finalists. We received a record number of over 370 nominations and 44 applications this year so the finalists should be very proud of their achievements,” he said.

The winner will be announced at the AFA’s National Conference in October.