Three finance professionals from the Hunter region have been named as finalists in the prestigious Women in Finance Awards 2024.

Marika Lynch, founder of Valorium Advisors, has been shortlisted for Regional Professional of the Year, alongside Jessica Holstrom of Sufficient Funds. Sheree King from Lambourne Partners is also in the running, recognised as a finalist for Young Leader of the Year.

The national awards program, run with the support of principal partner Mortgage Choice, is designed to recognise and acknowledge the leading women influencing the Australian finance industry.

Year after year, the Women in Finance Awards recognises the outstanding contributions made by women in financial services and companies furthering diversity and inclusion in the industry across a wide range of sectors.

With only a fifth of the financial planning industry and around a quarter of mortgage brokers being women, the awards amplify the work being done by this minority.

The finalist list features over 258 high-achieving professionals and businesses across 29 submission-based categories.

Finalists of the Women in Finance Awards are widely recognised as having unwavering determination and commitment to furthering the work of the industry and for playing a pivotal role in propelling the industry forward.

Marika from Valorium Advisors said that she was honoured to be recognised and proud to be named as a finalist in the Women in Finance Awards 2024.

“This recognition reflects my contribution to the finance industry over the past decade in business and reinforces my team’s dedication to connecting with the community and having meaningful impacts on our clients’ businesses,” Marika said.

Winners of the Women in Finance Awards 2024 will be announced at a black-tie gala at the Hyatt Regency, Sydney, on Friday, 15 November 2024.

Annie Kane, Managing Editor of The Adviser, extended her congratulations to all finalists, stating: “Momentum Media, in partnership with Mortgage Choice, is thrilled to announce the finalists of the Women in Finance Awards 2024,” Annie said.

“With cost-of-living pressures impacting the back pocket and home loan rates having hit a 12-year high recently, the support and advice of those in the finance sector is making a critical difference to the financial health of Australians across the nation.

“We’re proud to highlight the exceptional women and companies across the finance sector who are making significant contributions to the financial well-being of Australians amid a difficult economic landscape. By celebrating these remarkable achievements, we aim to inspire future generations of women to explore careers in financial services.”

“Congratulations to all the finalists of the Women in Finance Awards 2024. We look forward to celebrating the winners at the awards ceremony in Sydney!”

Read the full list of finalists of the Women in Finance Awards 2024 here.

IMAGE | Marika Lynch from Valorium Advisors named as one of the finalists in this year’s Women in Finance Awards.