Zainab Williams

My Journey to Become an Independent Financial Planner - From the DRC to Canada

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), I grew up understanding the values of hard work and ambition. My mother set an incredible example for me and my brother, and after we fled the war in the DRC, making a new life in Kenya for ourselves, she only solidified herself as a heroine my mind. Serving the United Nations, she dedicated herself to fostering sustainable agricultural and small business development, and as hard as she worked, she always took time to guide me as well, preparing me to thrive in the world and to live a life of compassion and service.

Relocating once again, my family and I ended up in Canada. It was there that I found my passion for business, studying business administration and international development. During my time as a student, a family friend offered me an opportunity to make an investment in Congo, and I leaped at it. As it turned out, though, the whole thing was a Ponzi Scheme. That was when I knew what I was going to do with my life, my path becoming clearer than ever before. Upon graduating from York University, I first took jobs in project management and credit development – before finally becoming an Independent Financial Planner.

As an Independent Financial Planner, I embrace service, just as my mother always taught me. I am always looking for ways to help people through my work, empowering my clients to set themselves up for long-term success by making the right financial decisions for themselves.