Interns as Key Players in the Modern Financial Advisory Strategy

Aileen Dasalla – From Intern to Junior Financial Advisor

This month, we’re spotlighting Aileen Dasalla, a Junior Financial Advisor at SaaS Wealth Insurance who brings together early experience in fintech, a talent for untangling complex planning challenges, and a strategic approach to advice. Her career officially began in 2023, but her passion for financial planning started much earlier.

Where it all began

“I used to sit in on my mom’s meetings with her financial advisor at the bank. Even though the advice wasn’t always personalized, it sparked a lot of questions about how people make financial decisions and what better advice could look like.”

As she got older, that curiosity grew into a deeper interest in how financial systems work and how technology could improve them. It’s what led her to study Finance and Management Information Systems (MIS) at Simon Fraser University - a combination that helped her connect the dots between planning, data, and real-world decision-making.

Seeing the advisor world from the tech side

During her co-op at AdvisorFlow, Aileen helped onboard advisors across Canada and got a behind-the-scenes look at how different advisors think and work. “I was walking them through the platform, but I learned just as much from them. It was fascinating to see how each advisor approached client relationships, and where they ran into challenges.”

The experience didn’t just confirm her career choice, it shaped how she saw the industry evolving. “There’s still so much room for innovation in financial services. Tech can make planning simpler, more transparent, and way more aligned with what clients actually need. I want to be part of that shift.” Aileen’s approach to advising is equal parts strategic and personal. “I’ve always loved solving problems and to me, financial planning is like figuring out a puzzle. But what makes it meaningful is that the puzzle is different for everyone. Every plan is connected to someone’s real life - their goals, their values, and what they’re working toward.”

What it looks like today

Now at SaaS Wealth Insurance, she works with individuals and families to create personalized financial plans that reflect what matters most to them - whether that’s paying down debt, investing for the future, or simply creating more breathing room month to month. “If I can help someone feel even a little more at ease with their finances, that’s a win in my books.”

Outside of client work, you can find Aileen strength training at the gym, shooting hoops, or scouting out her next favourite coffee shop.

Q&A with Aileen

What role did mentorship play in shaping your career path?

During my internship, I had a mentor who gave me clear goals but trusted me to figure out how to get there. That freedom to take initiative, share ideas, and problem-solve on my own really stuck with me. It showed me the value of having guidance without being micromanaged - and that’s shaped how I work with clients now. I want to bring that same clarity and support, while still giving people room to make decisions they feel confident about.

How did your internship help you develop the skills you use as a Junior Financial Advisor?

One of the biggest skills I picked up was the ability to simplify systems for people. At AdvisorFlow, I was constantly explaining tech tools to advisors who had completely different levels of comfort with technology. That taught me how to read the room, adjust my communication style, and make complex things feel approachable. It’s the same skill I now use when walking clients through their financial plans - different content, same mindset.

What key lessons from your internship still guide how you work with clients today?

That every advisor (and client) has their own way of thinking. During my internship, I saw that some advisors were deeply analytical, while others focused more on emotional connection or long-term vision. It taught me to never assume one style fits all. I carry that with me in how I approach client relationships. I ask a lot of questions upfront, and I try to meet people where they are, not where I assume they should be.

How has your understanding of the industry evolved?

When I started, I thought financial planning was mostly technical — projections, numbers, product knowledge. But after stepping into the advisor role, I’ve realized how much of it comes down to people. Building trust, listening well, and knowing when to challenge or support someone — that’s what really makes a difference. The internship showed me how the industry functions, but working with clients showed me the human side of planning.

From your perspective, what makes an internship successful - for both the intern and the firm?

Openness, on both sides. Interns need to be open to learning, adapting, and asking questions. But firms also need to be open to new perspectives and fresh ways of thinking. Sometimes there’s hesitation around hiring interns, especially in financial services, but the world is changing. Interns can bring in ideas that reflect how people are thinking today — and that kind of insight can help firms stay relevant and forward-looking.

A Special Thank You

A special thank you to Canada Life, and to John Panago, Greg Taylor, and Brian Gebbie, for supporting advisor development through mentorship and training programs. We would also like to recognize Simon Fraser University‘s Co-op Program for its commitment to helping students gain real-world experience.