Financial advisers were recognised at the Financial Advice NZ’s Thrive conference on Tuesday 5 March.
William Tieu is the recipient of the Financial Literacy Award. He saw a gap in financial literacy and the need for tailored guidance.
This was particularly critical during lockdowns when he continued to inform people about financial options online. He has 92,000 TikTok followers and hundreds of Instagram followers with ages from 16 to over 50 years.
In his previous career, as a Civil Engineer, Tieu built pipelines, and bridges and solved mathematical problems.
“This is very similar to financial advisers,” he said. “Both professions aim to assist our clients in solving the problems they face and to guide them through the process.
Community Impact Award
Tim Fairbrother, Rival Wealth, received the Community Impact Award from Financial Advice New Zealand for his ongoing commitment to the Wairarapa community.
He supported charities and community organisations to set up low-fee investment vehicles to provide ongoing financial security after Covid when their usual fundraising events could not be held.
The award recognises a financial adviser for the positive change, inclusiveness, and community connection they bring to the community they live in. Fairbrother’s commitment has been significant to the Wairarapa community.
Tate Scholarship
The winner of the Tate Scholarship was presented to Stephen Redwood, Personal Investment Centre, based in Palmerston North.
This award is given to a financial adviser who has recently completed the Certified Financial Planner certification. This is an international accreditation that represents the highest level of achievement within the financial planning profession, say award judges.
“It was a process that has added a huge amount to what we do. It is a lot of hard work (to obtain the accreditation) but well worth it,” said Redwood.
Lifetime Achievement award
David Whyte was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by Financial Advice NZ at the conference.
Whyte is a member of Financial Advice NZ and believes the organisation offers a more effective message to consumers, regulators, and legislators.
Whyte has contributed to the financial advice profession for over 35 years, and currently holds several board positions, both in and outside of the sector, including chairing the Board for Strategi and Kiwi Advice Network. He is also a member of the Financial Dispute Resolution Advisory Council.
Nick Hakes, Financial Advice NZ CEO, said: “Financial advisers work hard for their clients and have seen the impact of the last few years. To come together last night as a profession to recognise some of the advisers who have gone the extra mile, has been inspiring.”