EXCELLENCE AWARDEE: The Optimize Wealth Management Award for Rising Star Advisor of the Year

Rodrigo Mendez, CFP, CIM, CLU

https://www.facebook.com/nourprivatewealth/

@nour_private_wealth

@transalta

Rodrigo Mendez, CFP, CIM, CLU, is a Financial Planner with Sun Life in Vancouver who helps professionals, business owners, and families build, protect, and transition wealth with confidence. After immigrating to Canada from Venezuela in 2009 at age 17 without speaking English, Rodrigo built a successful practice through perseverance, discipline, and a passion for helping others achieve financial security. In less than three years, he grew his solo practice to a team of four. His expertise includes investment management, retirement planning, tax-efficient wealth strategies, estate planning, insurance solutions, and cross-border financial planning. Rodrigo believes financial planning should provide clarity, not complexity. He works closely with clients to identify opportunities, reduce financial blind spots, and create personalized strategies aligned with their goals and values. A frequent presenter on financial planning and wealth management topics, Rodrigo is regularly invited to speak at industry, educational, and community events. He has delivered keynote presentations to aspiring financial professionals, actively participates in Toastmasters International, and remains committed to leadership development, mentorship, and giving back to the community.

@mldwealthmanagementgroup5617

@blackfishfinance

Robert Frances

Founder, Chairman and CEO of PEAK Financial Group

Robert Frances founded PEAK Financial Group in 1992 and has grown it into a leading Canadian firm in independent wealth management, insurance, and financial advice. PEAK supports 1,500 professionals and 150,000 clients, with over $16 billion in assets, operating with no proprietary products or sales quotas. Robert serves on the CIRO board and has held leadership roles at IFIC and Concordia University. He was Global Chair of YPO (2011–2012) and now chairs the board of LANDR, a digital music company. He was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Quebec’s Business Services category.

Robert Frances

Founder, Chairman and CEO, PEAK Financial Group