Will Hamilton, CEO and Founder of wealth management firm HWP said the awards arrive at a pivotal moment for the advice profession.

“There’s a real gap emerging between today’s leaders and the future of leadership. If we don’t create pathways for younger advisers to step up, the profession risks losing its momentum. Supporting events like INFIN helps keep that pipeline strong and keeps the profession moving forward,” he noted.

The awards span 10 specialist areas from financial advice, investment, research, responsible investing, technology, community engagement and client experience among them. Each category highlights the innovation, ambition and integrity reshaping the future of wealth management.

Finalists were selected based on both the volume of votes received and the strength of their nomination summaries, with judges assessing how well each candidate demonstrated alignment with the award criteria.

The advisory committee overseeing the process comprises of young leaders from financial advice, asset consulting, asset management and public relations sectors, ensuring a broad and contemporary perspective when evaluating nominees.

Ashley Ryburn, Account Director, Head of Community at The Inside Network, highlighted the rigorous and collaborative nature of the selection process.

“We were overwhelmed with the response to the nominations – over 400 entries received. In choosing the winners, the advisory committee is balancing the quantitative elements of the nominations with the qualitative and evaluating the competing merits of so many impressive stories. Not only are they investing considerable time in selecting the winners, but they will also play a key role in designing and delivering the interactive workshops on the day. It’s a true celebration of innovation, ingenuity and lifelong learning across wealth management.”

Several award advisory committee members emphasised the importance of community, collaboration and adaptability as the next generation steps forward.

Josh Lee, Director and Financial Adviser at Link Wealth, said “What I’m most excited about is connecting with others in a similar age bracket. The advice industry is going through a lot of change, we’ve seen many advisers leave the industry, but the future is bright. I’m super bullish on the industry. It’s great to see INFIN event fostering growth and helping mentor the next generation.”

Josh Rubera, Business Development Manager at Colonial First State, noted the value of shared learning. “At the INFIN Future Financial Leaders Forum we hope attendees get the best of both worlds, from insights from industry experts and the chance to hear how their peers are tackling the same challenges.”

Holly Brenchley, investment specialist at Escala, said the industry’s evolution presents both opportunities and demands for future leaders.

“Technology is reshaping how markets work, how advice is delivered and how we invest. The greatest challenge and opportunity for future financial leaders is embracing these changes and staying at the forefront,” she said.

View the shortlisted finalists.

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Josh Lee

As the financial advice industry grapples with a growing talent shortage, Link Wealth is actively working to inspire the next generation of advisers and improve financial outcomes for young Australians through its Beyond Schools program – a free, practical financial literacy workshop aimed at year 10 to 12 students.

Since its inception, Beyond School has already reached over 300 students, with plans to extend the program across Australia over the coming years.

Josh Lee, Director of Link Wealth and leader of the program said, “The adviser shortage is real, and it’s not going to fix itself.

“We need to be proactive in showing young people that being a financial adviser is not just a job – it’s a profession where you can have a real impact on people’s lives.”

Developed to address both the national gap in financial literacy and the under-supply of new entrants into financial advice, Beyond School gives students critical skills as they enter adulthood – from budgeting and understanding superannuation to making informed decisions around debt, investments, and savings.

“For many students, this is the first time they’ve had someone explain how money actually works”, Lee said. “I want them to leave the room not only feeling more confident about managing their own finances but also realising that financial advice is a career where you can make a real difference.”

Josh’s personal journey into financial advice is central to the program’s relatable and authentic tone. Having started his career uncertain of his direction, Josh experienced first-hand the consequences of poor financial decisions before discovering the value of advice – ultimately becoming a Director of Link Wealth by age 26.

“Students need to see that it’s okay to not have it all figured out yet. My story shows that you don’t have to follow a straight path to find a meaningful and rewarding career. Financial advice isn’t just about spreadsheets; it’s about helping people live better lives.”

With over 300 students already participating in the initiative, Link Wealth aims to further scale Beyond School and work with schools across Australia to reach even more young Australians in2025 and beyond.

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