Ysabela Andrea Santos.

Paraplanner

BSc(Mgmt), DipFP

portrait of paraplanner ysabela andrea smiling after helping clients with financial planning

I found my way into financial advice at a crossroads - my Mum in the US was convinced accounting was my path, but fate had other plans. Landing in paraplanning turned out to be the perfect fit. I love how every strategy is different, and getting to learn about our clients' lives while helping them reach their goals keeps me on my toes.

Originally from the Philippines, I made Brisbane my home in 2022. The sunny climate and laid-back lifestyle here reminds me of home - though I brought a few Filipino traditions with me, like karaoke nights with friends! These days I'm also trying my hand at pickleball and padel.

Fun fact - I was homeschooled for a few years while my mum and stepdad traveled for medical missions. Watching their work made me want to become a nurse, until my grandmother talked me out of it! 

Instead, I completed my Bachelor of Accounting and worked in management accounting. Then 2020 happened, and that plot twist led me into Australian financial services as an outsourced paraplanner.

When I'm not deep in strategy and technical advice writing, you'll find me with my nose in a book, checking out astrology, or giving back through Lifeblood AU and supporting an orphanage back in the Philippines.

Qualifications + Credentials.

  • Bachelor of Science in Management Accounting

  • Diploma of Financial Planning

In the hot seat with Ysabela.

If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive who would it be? Why?
My grandma Susie who passed away with breast cancer two years ago – I miss her, and I want to let her know that her sacrifices weren’t a waste and I’m doing well and to let her know she is my inspiration, and her legacy is with me, and I will continue to pass it on.


What's your favourite quote?
"A disciplined mind brings happiness." Buddha


What was your first job and what did it teach you?
Retail Photographer for Six Flags Great Adventure (theme park) – taught me about people, how to be a team player and how to properly use a camera!


What book changed your perspective on money or life?
”Die with zero” by Bill Perkins and “Psychology of money” by Morgan Housel


What’s your go to karaoke song?
Destiny by Jim Brickman (I always need a duet for this one!)


If you could live in any city in the world for a year, where would it be and why?
Seattle, WA – so I can spend some precious time with my Mum, sisters, stepdad, brother, cousins – basically my whole family.