Daniel Jackson, Financial Planner, DBK Financial Solutions and 2019 AFA Rising Star finalist shares what a rewarding experience being a finalist has been, why he encourages everyone to apply, plus why he is returning next year to apply for the AFA Excellence in Education Award!
1.Why financial advice?
Financial planners are more than just number crunchers for the rich; they are game changers for everyday Australians at every stage of life; from their first super account, right through to retirement and everything in between. It’s because of this I became a financial planner – someone who makes a real, positive difference.
2.What are you most proud of?
The decision to study financial planning with Kaplan Professional; while being a tradesman, running a business and raising a family! There was a degree of uncertainty as to how I was going to go study for my Diploma of Financial Planning. Eight years later, I have obtained my dream job, have a Masters in Financial Planning, a national Dux title and two national subject awards.
3.Who inspires you?
My mentor, John Dawson, with over 40 years of experience in the financial services industry. John has seen it all, yet at 70 years of age is more determined than ever to provide high quality advice for his clients.
Anyone who has or is serving in the defence forces. In my teens I was groomed for Officer Colleague at RMC Duntroon until one day I ran into a fire to save a mate. The damage I sustained from the smoke delayed these plans. By the time I was capable to follow that path, I had meet my wife, became a father and moved onto new ventures.
4.What advice would you give to your younger self?
The same advice my Major once give me, which I also pass onto my 17-Year-old son:
“ Who Dares Wins”; the motto of the elite. It means that you (Who) are willing to accept a challenge (dares) that very few would, and that the victory (Wins) is in the acceptance of the challenge, so as long as you keep challenging yourself, you are winning, you are one of the elite.
5. Your most recent ‘high-five’ moment?
I have two:
The AFA Rising Star finalist: this has been a rewarding journey and I am glad I nominated myself for it. Simply nominating yourself is a good opportunity to reflect on what you have achieved and feel a sense of pride in what you are doing. I encourage everyone to do it.
Winner of the Kaplan Professional National Subject Award for Governance and Ethics. The three things I am passionate about is further education, strong business governance and even stronger ethics. This award is a combination of all three.
6. Favourite holiday destination?
Australia – we are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful country with so much to see and do. My ideal holiday destination is just to get out on the open road and go wherever it takes me.
7. Your big hairy audacious goal for 2020?
I have two:
Return to win the AFA Excellence in Education Award – knowing the benefits education has both personally and professionally. Kaplan Professional have been helping me advocate for the importance of further education. Winning this award will help elevate my message to a larger range of people.
Launch my new Mentoring Program – my last program, designed only for the voluntary community, became a success and is used internationally. My latest program is more advanced; designed for business owners, their staff and their clients, it focuses on health, wealth, business and winning goals.
