Every month, we share some highlights of what’s been happening in and around KBA.
First this month, we have a trio of work anniversaries to celebrate. Gary Fletcher and Emily Bartley have both been on the team for two years, and Laverne Picart has been with us for a whole year already.
In other news, our amazing Company Director Sarah Hogan joined the jet set, three of our brilliant Financial Planners have their names on the coveted VouchedFor Top Rated Advisers list, and Hannah Needham took on an incredible hiking challenge.
Sarah Hogan jetted off to Greece to give a keynote speech
Sarah was thrilled to be invited to speak at the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) Day, and wasted no time packing her bags.
The invite was a privilege.
Founded almost a century ago in 1927, the MDRT – the Premier Association of Financial Professionals® – is a global, independent association of the world’s leading life insurance and financial services professionals from more than 700 companies in 80 nations and territories.
As the website states: “MDRT members demonstrate exceptional professional knowledge, strict ethical conduct and outstanding client service. MDRT membership is recognised internationally as the standard of excellence in the life insurance and financial services business.”
So, you can see why Sarah was honoured to be invited to give a keynote speech. And why she may have been a tad nervous at the prospect.
As she posted on LinkedIn just hours before her big moment, “I’m excited and nervous to show the 700 European financial services professionals in the room, how to simplify concepts and draw your way to the top.”
Needless to say, as an empowered woman on a mission to inspire and empower others, Sarah did an amazing job and totally rocked the stage.
3 of our fabulous Financial Planners were named among VouchedFor Top Rated Advisers
Each year, the VouchedFor Top Rated Guide showcases the very best financial advisers and planners in the UK.
The guide, which has been published in the Times, the Mail on Sunday and, more recently, the Daily Telegraph, identifies and celebrates the UK’s best financial professionals, all based on client feedback.
So, we were thrilled to spot some familiar names on the list, as Sarah Hogan, David Parkinson and Gary Fletcher have once again been recognised as VouchedFor Top Rated Advisers.
Just 113 of the UK’s roughly 5,000 financial advice firms qualified as Top Rated, and our super trio are delighted to be among them.
Inclusion in the guide is a tremendous honour, particularly as it’s based solely on client reviews. So, thank you for your kind words, and for trusting us to assist you in reaching your long-term goals.
Hannah Needham took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge
Late last month, Hannah Needham pulled on her hiking boots and tackled the Three Peaks challenge.
After giving her time for a long hot soak to ease her muscles, we made her a big cup of tea and asked her to tell us all about it.
Here’s what she had to say…
What inspired you to take on this challenge?
Having tackled each of the Three Peaks individually before, the idea of doing them as a full loop felt like the ultimate adventure. When my friend and coach set up a hiking experience, I jumped at the chance to join in and push my limits.
How did you prepare for the physical challenge?
I committed to a solid four-week training plan, involving intense StairMaster sessions at the gym, combined with longer hikes throughout the week. It was all about building endurance and getting those miles in.
Who joined you on this adventure?
I teamed up with my friend Robyn (who also happens to be my coach – find her on Instagram @innerlightfitness). We were guided by two incredible mountain leaders, Joe and Alex, who were fantastic.
How was the weather on the day?
We got super lucky. The skies stayed clear for most of the day, with a bit of sunshine to keep us going. We did get rained on for about 30 minutes at the end, but overall, it was chilly and perfect for hiking.
How long did it take, and did everyone make it?
Yes, we all made it to the finish! The whole challenge took us just under 12 hours to complete – an epic day from start to finish.
What was the toughest part of the challenge?
The final 10km was the real test. We’d already conquered all the peaks, but the long trek back to the starting point felt like it would never end. By then, my feet were sore, and every step was a challenge.
And the most rewarding moment?
Definitely crossing the finish line. Knowing all that hard work paid off and realising we completed such a tough challenge was an amazing feeling – I was beyond proud.
What advice would you give to someone looking to follow in your footsteps?
Train, train, train! Don’t go into it unprepared, and make sure you pack plenty of snacks. Trust me, you’ll be much hungrier than you expect, and you’ll need that extra energy to reach the end.
Anything else you’d like to add?
It was such a fun and rewarding experience, especially with friends. I’d highly recommend doing it with a buddy or a small group – it makes the journey more enjoyable when you can chat and laugh along the way!
