AFA initiative targets women
The Association of Financial Advisers (AFA) has launched a new initiative to provide a network and a "professional community" to help women support each other in reaching full potential in their careers.
AFA chief executive Brad Fox said the 'Inspire - Connecting Women in Advice' initiative was not only aimed at female advisers, but paraplanners, support staff and others who are involved in the financial advice industry.
"We want to encourage all women in our industry to progress and achieve personal fulfilment throughout their financial services careers," Fox said. "It's a broad-based initiative that is consistent with the AFA culture around collaboration and inclusiveness."
The program would offer support for career development through networking, coaching, mentoring and leadership, as well as female-focused events.
Deborah Kent, owner of Integra Financial Services and a finalist of last year's AFA Female Excellence in Advice Award, has been appointed the inaugural chairperson for Inspire.
"This is something the industry has needed for along time," Kent said. "Women's needs within the industry will shape the Inspire program."
She said the participants will be able to choose the level of support that is right for them.
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