Several months later, For-mukwai completed his doctoral program and took his wife and uncle’s recommendation to join WFG Transamerica. He quickly began studying to get his license and sought opportunities to expand his industry knowledge, including becoming a NAIFA member. He says, “I’m a big believer in learning from people with experience and expertise,” and in the financial services realm, “a bigger umbrella like NAIFA would afford me the opportunity to do just that.”

As evidenced by his educational pursuits and coaching business, Gideon For-mukwai has a lifetime passion for educating and coaching others. Joining the financial services industry has enabled him to utilize this passion in a new setting. The more he learns, the more passionate he becomes about sharing with others. He says, “I absolutely enjoy deepening my understanding of my finances. It’s helping me to re-examine where my income is personally being spent. I’ve also learned how to reduce the cost of insurance on my car and home.” Because of these discoveries, he has been able to serve his clients better. He says, “If you don’t see the benefits, it’s harder to share that with your clients. I see new things daily.”

When asked why he would recommend this career to someone, he says, “Financial planning and insurance are instruments that can help families to be safer, happier, and healthier.” He also noted that many people “miss an important portion of training because financial management is not taught in school. No one is teaching you how to spend or save your money wisely,” which causes a great need for financial advisors who can educate consumers on the importance of insurance and financial planning to “grow and pass on a legacy to one’s family.”

For-mukwai says, “relationships have always been a fundamental part of my life. No one cares how good your product or service may be; it’s the relationship that matters.” Since joining the industry, For-mukwai has focused on continuing to build new relationships and nurture older ones. Through the development of these relationships, he determines what needs exist and how to best serve them.

Welcome to the financial services industry, Gideon, and welcome to NAIFA!