AFA’s inclusive female network Inspire commences its annual national roadshow on 15 May in Hobart, which will also be the official launch of the 2017 AFA and TAL Female Excellence in Advice Award (the Award).
Launched in 2013, the AFA’s Inspire Community of Practice has facilitated professional development and networking opportunities for women, assisting in a 30 per cent increase in the number of women in the AFA’s membership.
According to Inspire National Chair Dianne Charman, the goals of Inspire to connect women in advice, encourage them into adviser and leadership roles, and to encourage women to seek quality financial advice, continue to be imperative to our community.
“We are seeing change in our industry in terms of demographics, with more women joining our industry, but also in terms of more females seeking advice. Inspire supports and enhances this evolution, making our industry more sustainable and more relevant.”
Female in Excellence Advice Award sponsor TAL recognized its partnership with AFA for this Award as an opportunity to celebrate the female advisers who are leading the way. It provides an outstanding platform for the next generation of female advisers.
“At TAL we understand the benefits that diversity brings to the advice profession and the importance of working together to change perceptions and get more Australians involved in financial advice,” said Niall McConville, General Manager Retail Distribution, TAL.
This year’s keynote speaker at the Inspire National Roadshow is Lynne Schinella, a communication expert and speaker coach. After running her own performance improvement company, Schinella launched her training business Ripe Learning in 2001. Here she coaches executives for critical business presentations and keynote speeches, with her recent clients including IAG, Volkswagen and the Bunnings Group.
“This roadshow provides opportunities to hear excellent speakers and also to offer input into how we can help women engage better with their financial wellbeing,” Ms Charman said.
AFA CEO Phil Kewin emphasised the importance of an advice profession that truly reflects diversity in all aspects.
“Excellence in female advice showcases the amazing talent and professionalism in our industry. These inspiring role models are at the forefront of change and act as ambassadors to encourage more women to join our profession.”
The Inspire National Roadshow schedule is as follows:
TAS – Hobart
Monday 15 May
Wrest Point
SA – Adelaide
Tuesday 16 May
National Wine Centre of Australia
WA – Perth
Wednesday 17 May
Hyatt Regency Perth
VIC – Melbourne
Tuesday 23 May
Crown Towers
NSW – Sydney
Wednesday 24 May
Luna Park Sydney
QLD – Brisbane
Thursday 25 May
Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane
