The Powwow 2019 is welcoming a new host for its seventh annual event, as well as the return of a well-known industry figure.
Rebecca Tuck, technical and quality manager at Magenta Financial Planning and CISI 2018 Paraplanner of the Year, will be taking over from last year’s host Caroline Stuart of DB Wood.
And Mark Polson, founder of the lang cat, will be returning to the tee pees as Guru, seven years after his first appearance at the first Powwow.
The event takes place on 12 September in tee pees in a field in Aynho, Northamptonshire. It is an ‘unconference’ which means the agenda is set by the attendees.
Rebecca said: “The Powwow is very collaborative and a place for paraplanners to learn from one another. Because the role of paraplanner is so varied, the different experiences you hear at Powwow is valuable.
“Even if you’re going on your own, you won’t be alone for long – you’ll get a lot from the day; not just the content but the contacts you’ll make. It’s a great atmosphere for sharing knowledge.”
Hosting the Powwow is a challenge Rebecca said she is looking forward to. “It’s not something I would have felt comfortable doing a couple of years ago but it’s my favourite event of the year and I’m proud to be this year’s host. It’s a personal and professional development opportunity and I’ve been practicing, taking up the opportunities that have come my way to try out my public speaking. I’ve had a number of opportunities from events like the Powwow and now is my time to give back.”
Mark Polson said: “I never met a Powwow event I didn’t like. What’s not to love about a group of smart, motivated, curious and committed folk who are into working out how to do things the best way they possibly can? You’d have to be even grumpier than me not to go for that, so I’m really chuffed and flattered to have the chance to come and bang on about stuff once again. But – and I want to make this very clear – I’m still not having my face painted.”
Alongside Mark’s ‘Guru’ slot, the day consists of a series of campfires co-hosted by paraplanners and gurus and culminates in the Powwow – an open mic debate on topics picked by event participants on the day.
For those thinking of coming along, Rebecca shares some pointers on how to get the most from the Powwow: “Be open minded. When you’re there, really think about what you can take back. The Powwow is a great place to learn new ways of doing things. Finally, be ready to ask questions and get involved – you’ll be inundated with offers of help, good ideas – and sweets.”
New ‘night before’ event
Paraplanners travelling up the evening before the Powwow can join the the ‘night before campfire’, an evening of pizza and tunes at the tee pees, hosted by Rebecca. “The get together the evening before is always a great opportunity to meet new people and catch up with friends. I’m excited that we’re trying something new this year, taking the meet up outside and taking advantage of the tee pees and the beautiful location. I just hope the weather holds up!”
For those who are new to the Powwow there is the option on arrival of spending a couple of minutes with seasoned Powwowers, to help get the most from the Powwow. This ‘welcome campfire’ will focus on making introductions, setting out what to expect from the day and guidance on how to get involved.
Codie Smith, paraplanner at Cooper Parry Wealth was a first time Powwowwer last year. She said: “Attending events in the financial planning world can be quite daunting. The Powwow is a difference beast. It’s purely for paraplanners. And because of this, you get so much out of it. You’re surrounded by people who think like you, work similar to you and want to learn the same things as you. It’s not about how to be in front of a client, it’s about spreadsheets, the best ways to tackle a tricky advice report, how to have difficult conversations with advisers, and putting your geeky knowledge to paper. I attended alone last year and really enjoyed myself.”
Rob Kingsbury, editor of Professional Paraplanner, added: “I’ve been lucky enough to be invited to the National Powwow for the past five years. It’s an informal atmosphere where paraplanners can share their working practices and learn from their peers. Participation is key, so I echo Rebecca’s advice to get involved and enjoy the day.”
For further information: https://paraplannerspowwow.co.uk/
