Speakers

Godsman joined GAMA Global 16 years ago, where she rose through the ranks to become vice president for corporate and business development. In this role, she oversaw all revenue departments at the association, including Membership, LAMP, Communications and PMG Corporate Relations. Since her promotion to that position in 2012, GAMA has seen dramatic growth in revenue, membership, membership retention and LAMP attendance. In June 2014, Godsman took the helm as GAMA’s first, and youngest, female CEO.

Joy Avedesian is the General Agent of Capstone Colorado/MassMutual Rocky Mountains. Joy has earned countless production and leadership awards, both inside and outside our profession, including the Chairman’s Gold Bowl Award from MassMutual. Joy parlayed her early corporate success with Fortune 100 companies into our profession 15 years ago. Motivated by setting and achieving goals, Joy is inspired by collaboration with visionaries.

Joy, a former NCAA soccer player, has been recognized as the Outstanding Alumni Athlete from her alma matter’s Alumni Association Board of Directors (University of California at Irvine) for her commitment to helping student-athletes transition from the field to the workforce. From being a White House Intern during the Clinton Administration, to serving as an advocate for future generations of leaders, Joy has laser-focused passion and purpose in giving back to the community around her. Joy is a direct, compassionate, and pragmatic motivational speaker and is consistently on the hunt to learn more.

Life’s natural flow of training has led Joy to do what she loves most – working with people, pulling the most out of every situation, excelling in business and enjoying the rewards hard work and dedication have to offer. Joy volunteers at Broken Shovels Animal Sanctuary, travels the world with loved ones, and spends time outdoors with her black labs, Bear and Bo, in Denver, Colorado. 

As an Elite and Executive Sales and Leadership Coach, Brent has over 17 years of proven sales experience. A Partner at Southwestern Consulting, he has worked with hundreds of companies across industries ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 executives.

Brent grew up in a small town where he developed his work ethic, integrity, and a caring nature. After graduating high school, Brent joined the military where he built strong mental fortitude, leadership, and perseverance skills.

He earned a degree from Minnesota State University in Mass Communications, with an emphasis in public relations and a speech communications minor. He then went on to earn his MBA from Augsburg University.

Daily, Brent applies all of the skills he spent decades honing to his professional career, where he’s found passion as a sales director, district manager and division director.  He’s shared his passion and story with countless executives as he’s helped them achieve their own goals and find the levels of success they have spent their careers pursuing.

Brent is the epitome of discipline and consistency. Year after year, he is ranked in the top 5% of the company. He is a consistent top producer with expertise in lead generation, prospecting, selling to top executives, and the art of follow-up. He is the true meaning of being dedicated to your craft and doing what it takes to become successful.

As a coach, he has a relentless commitment to empower his clients to embrace the difficult, improve their processes, and blaze their own path. Learning early on to commit to the difficult, his principles have guided him through his career.

He has spoken to, coached, and trained people all over the country. No matter the industry or profession, you will find Brent will bring it.

Brent resides in Minnesota with his beautiful wife, Jenny, and his three children Jack, Elle, and Hudson. He loves spending time with his family, whether it’s traveling, playing sports, helping with schoolwork, or just enjoying each other’s company.

An avid health and fitness enthusiast, he’s ran an ultramarathon, conquered marathons, 10 K’s, and half marathons, and climbed mountains, accomplishing goals that stretch his physical and mental abilities to their limit.

Kristi has a passion for building the future of this everchanging industry. The majority of her 20-year+ career has been focused on successfully attracting, training, mentoring, and retaining advisors, as well as leaders, on both a small and large scale. Currently, a Senior Managing Director for Mass Mutual Greater Philadelphia, Kristi has a passion for helping, coaching. and attracting diverse talent into the industry to better serve and reflect our diverse clients. Kristi has achieved coveted awards for her many roles in the field for her ability to drive effective change and results.

 As a self-titled “life-long learner,” Kristi also holds her Series 6, 63, 26, 65, L&H license, LUTCF and CLF designations, and is currently working on her RICP designation.

Kristi deeply believes in giving her time to industry associations, advocating for the profession, building successful and profitable firms, and coaching/mentoring the future. This is through her current work with the GAMA Global Advisory Committee, and through her former board seats on; both FINSECA, and The Women in Financial Services PA. She has also been featured in multiple training video series’ for both GAMA International and The American College, focusing on recruiting techniques, as well as leadership development. She has contributed to both GAMA and FINSECA magazine/print materials and is a key component in FINSECA’S Women Impact Program. Kristi has spoken internationally to distribution leaders in China for the USCIPA, and in Cancun Mexico for Lamp Latin America as well and the Vietnamese leaders. 

Kristi and with her 3 children; Jason (20), Jack (16), and Logan (11) currently lives in Boyertown, PA. Kristi is a lifelong Philadelphia Eagles fan, and in her personal time enjoys live music, traveling, and spending time with her family and loved ones.

Mr. Yung holds an Executive MBA from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and various professional qualifications, including the first batch of CFP® in Hong Kong and RFC. He is an Executive District Director and Honorable Advisor of AIA International Limited. He currently serves as Vice Chairman of Committee for Economic Affairs, 14th National Committee of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Member of Economic Advancement Expert Group, Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CPEU), and Founding President of Hong Kong Professionals and Senior Executives Association, etc.

With over 40 years of experience in the life insurance industry, Mr Yung enjoys widespread industry recognition both in Hong Kong and across the region. He is a frequent speaker at large-scale industry conferences, forums, and symposiums in Hong Kong, the Mainland and overseas. In addition to being the record holder of the most consecutive number of ‘District Directors of the Year’ awards for 24 years in the company, Mr Yung has received numerous awards and accolades locally and globally in recognition of his exceptional achievements and remarkable contributions to the sector. They include:

29th consecutive win of GAMA Global’s ‘Master Agency Award’

‘Lifetime Achievement Award – Life Insurance’ at the Hong Kong Insurance Awards 2023

‘Worldwide Chinese Insurance Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the 2023 International Dragon Award Annual Conference Global Summit

‘Global Insurance Technology Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the 3rd Global Insurance Technology Conference 2022

‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ by Asia Insurance Review and Asia Advisers Network at the 7th Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards 2022

The Inaugural ‘2018 International Insurance Culture Lifetime Achievement Award’ by China Millions Forum

‘2017 Forbes China．RFP China Outstanding Contribution Award’ by 2017 FORBES CHINA。RFP CHINA INSURANCE ELITES SELECTION

‘Hall of Honor’ by GAMA International (headquartered in the US) in 2017

‘Industry Achievement Award’ by the Life Underwriters Association of Hong Kong (LUAHK) in 2015

‘The China Insurance Person of the Year 2011’ by China Insurance News

Solomon embarked on his journey in the insurance industry in Sep 2012. In four months’ time after commencing as Wealth Management Manager, he achieved the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) qualification. He has been qualified as MDRT Life Member since 2022, with Top of the Table (TOT) for eight times and Court of the Table (COT) twice. 

Throughout his career as an insurance professional, Solomon was honored with numerous company and industrial awards, including The Hong Kong Management Association (HKMA) 46th Outstanding Young Sales Person Award (OYSA), The Hong Kong Federation of Insurers (HKFI) Outstanding Young Professional of the Year Intermediary Champion in 2019, China Millions Forum (CMF) International Top Ten Insurance Stars Award and Forbes China Insurance Elite Platinum Award in 2020 etc. Recognizing his exceptional leadership, Solomon was honored with Life Underwriters Association of Hong Kong (LUAHK) 28th Distinguished Young Manager Award and 29th Distinguished Manager Award, and The General Agents and Managers Association (GAMA) International Management Award (IMA) – Titanium in 2024. 

Driven by the belief that giving is more rewarding than receiving, Solomon eagerly shares his wealth of experience and ideas with fellow industry players. His reputation as a captivating speaker has led to frequent invitations to international forums, including MDRT Annual and Global Conference (USA and Singapore), Asia Pacific Life Insurance Congress APLIC (Hong Kong and Singapore), MDRT Day (Taiwan), etc. His extensive record of delivering impactful speeches across various districts and conferences showcases his unwavering commitment to positively influencing and contributing to the industry on a global scale.

Vincent Emy Pardo, a testament to the power of determination and resilience, is a prominent figure in the financial service industry in the Philippines. Having weathered the challenges of growing up in poverty after the untimely passing of both parents at the age of 10, Vince embarked on a remarkable journey of perseverance and achievement.

Despite adversity, Vince demonstrated an unwavering commitment to education and personal development. As a working student, Vince overcame financial obstacles to graduate as a teacher, showing early on an exceptional ability to balance work and academic pursuits.

In 2010, Vince transitioned into the financial service industry, beginning his career as a financial advisor. Through sheer dedication and an unparalleled work ethic, Vince swiftly ascended through the ranks, progressing from advisor to unit head, branch head, and ultimately to the esteemed position of Region Head of Manulife Philippines. 

As a Region Head, Vince holds a position of significant influence, leading and guiding a dynamic team of over 100-unit managers, 700 advisors, and 10 branch heads. Vince’s leadership and strategic vision have played an instrumental role in driving the success and growth of the region, cementing their reputation as a respected industry leader.

Beyond professional accomplishments, Vince’s journey is an inspiring example of triumph over adversity, showcasing the transformative power of determination and grit. Vince continues to inspire others by sharing his story and imparting invaluable insights on resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges.

Through Vince’s remarkable ascent from humble beginnings to a position of leadership and influence, they exemplify the extraordinary potential that lies within the human spirit, embodying the values of hard work, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Jjay Karunyaporn Thanomsap, the visionary founder and CEO of SUPP company, has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the financial planning industry. Under her leadership, she has spearheaded the formation of a dynamic new generation team since 2022.  

Her meteoric rise within the organization is testament to her exceptional leadership abilities. In just six months, she transitioned from an agent to a New Assistant Unit Manager in July 2022, followed by another promotion to New Unit Manager in January 2023, and ultimately ascended to the role of District Manager in January 2024.  

As a forward-thinking leader, Jjay believes in the power of branding and marketing to attract new agents to her team. By implementing robust systems and fostering a strong company culture, she has cultivated an even stronger team environment.  

With over 8 years of experience in the insurance industry, Jjay has consistently delivered outstanding sales performance. She boasts an impressive track record, having achieved 2 MDRT, 5 COT, and 2 TOT recognitions. Furthermore, she has been honored with the prestigious OF THE YEAR ANNUAL AWARDS from AIA THAILAND for four years.  

Driven by a relentless determination to excel, Jjay embodies the ethos of being both a leader and a salesperson. She firmly believes that success lies in seamlessly integrating these two roles, and she continues  to inspire others with her unwavering commitment to excellence.  

Jjay focuses on building a strong brand through strategic marketing to attract the new generation. When onboarding new Financial Advisors (FAs), she ensures clarity about career paths, emphasizing the  opportunity they’re embarking on. The SUPP Academy offers mentorship to guide newcomers, while technology serves as a tool to enhance teamwork professionally and compassionately.  

Jjay firmly believes in the synergy of human expertise and AI, recognizing that our job landscape is evolving. She closely monitors workflows, encouraging prompt adaptation to evolving methods. Various  engaging activities are curated for the new generation team, fostering deeper understanding and alignment with core values.  

When people think of her, they acknowledge her tireless dedication to her team, characterized by a strong  mindset and creativity. She’s known for her unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact in the industry. While there may be many speakers, she excels in both selling effectively and managing adeptly. Constantly learning, particularly in marketing and branding, she actively participates in numerous events, firmly believing that learning from others is the most valuable asset one can possess.  

She’s a bold individual who continuously invests in and explores new ventures. Her philosophy hinges on the belief that attempting something new, even if it results in failure, is preferable to never trying at all. Whether it’s investing money, implementing new systems, or dedicating time to initiatives, she embraces the  opportunity for growth and innovation.

After 25 years working as a Fashion Designer (1985-2007), Ngoc moved to the insurance industry by joining a life insurance company in 2007 as a Financial Advisor. Over the next 3 years (2007-2010), she was successfully promoted to the positions of Unit Manager, Senior Unit Manager, District Manager, Senior District Manager, Branch Manager and Agency Manager. 

Ngoc was qualified as MDRT, Top Agency Builder in 2013-2016, Top 3 FYC Agency Manager nationwide 2013, Top 2 FYC Agency Manager nationwide 2014, Top 1 Agency Manager nationwide 2015 on new Unit Manager Development, Top 2 Agency Manager nationwide on recruiting agents 2015. Promoted to the position of Senior Manager, Ngoc has built an agency of 250 agents and managers (including 2 COT and 11 MDRT).

Recently, she has been promoted to be Regional Director of Agency Management and Development of Chubb Life Vietnam.

Mr. LUNG Chee Ming George first joined the recent company in 1990 and has since achieved outstanding results. He is now a Senior Executive Regional Director leading a team of over 1,300 insurance/financial advisers.

In 2000, George was awarded “Stars of Excellence, Production Performance” by parent company for his outstanding production performance. In 2005, he was awarded “Stars of Excellence, Global Citizenship Award”, to recognize his substantial contributions to the social community. In 2014, he was further awarded “Excellence Award” Commendation his outstanding achievements in his company. At the same year, George was awarded “Outstanding Community Agent of the Year” by The Hong Kong Federation of Insurers (HKFI) and the Metro Finance (FM 104).

Actively involved in community services, George was awarded the Medal of Honour and Bronze Bauhinia Star by the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2001 and 2014. Furthermore, Mr. Lung was a member of 10th to 13th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and is currently a member of the Justice of the Peace of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Mr. Wong Kwok Lun Alan was formerly a physical education teacher before joining the insurance industry. In 1989, he became an insurance consultant and has attended overseas company conferences every year since the following year. He has also received numerous performance and team awards from the company. From 1991 to 1993, he was promoted annually to the positions of Assistant Manager, Unit Manager, and Senior Unit Manager. In 1996, he became a Branch Manager, followed by Senior Branch Manager in 1999. In 2006, he was promoted to Regional Director and became a Senior Regional Director in 2007.

Since 1992, Alan has consistently received industry awards, including the International Quality Award (IQA) since 1992, the GAMA Frontline Leader Award (FLA) (formerly CDA) since 1994, the GAMA International Management Award (IMA) since 2000, and the GAMA Master Agency Award (MAA) since 2009. He has also been awarded with the International Dragon Award (IDA) since 2009, the International Quality Management Award (IQMA) since 2014, and became a member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) in the same year.

Yacht Explosion Survivor, Entrepreneur, Inspirational Speaker 

Alvis’s journey embodies the spirit of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in oneself. From humble beginnings as a poor boy with the fortune of a fisherman, he defied the odds to emerge as a beacon of hope and inspiration for individuals from all walks of life.

Surviving a catastrophic yacht explosion, Alvis faced unimaginable challenges and setbacks. Yet, through sheer grit and determination, he not only survived but thrived, transforming adversity into opportunity and setbacks into triumphs.

Entrepreneurial Vision:

Fueled by his unwavering belief in his dreams, Alvis founded ATO PARTNERS, an embodiment of his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence. From its modest inception, ATO PARTNERS has evolved into one of Singapore’s most respected insurance agencies, earning accolades and recognition for its exceptional service and unwavering integrity.

In order to differentiate ATO PARTNERS from the rest of insurance agencies in Singapore, Alvis developed an advanced and unique ecosystem within ATO PARTNERS. This successful ecosystem attracted numerous talents to join ATO PARTNERS, including the ex Chief Agency Officer from the Company that Alvis is representing. 

Empowering Others:

As an inspirational speaker, Alvis shares his remarkable journey with audiences worldwide, empowering them to overcome obstacles, embrace challenges, and pursue their dreams relentlessly. His message resonates with individuals from all walks of life, inspiring them to believe in themselves, chase their dreams, and create their own path to success.

Join Alvis as he shares his story of resilience, determination, and triumph, and discover how you too can turn adversity into opportunity and achieve greatness against all odds. Prepare to be inspired, motivated, and empowered to embark on your own journey of transformation and success.