Kenzo Gan
As Filipinos reimagine their careers in the wake of a changing economy, financial advising is emerging as more than just a fallback or side hustle—it’s becoming a purposeful profession. With greater focus on work-life balance, personal growth, and financial resilience, a growing number of Filipinos are making bold shifts into the life insurance industry.
This surge is backed by data: the Insurance Commission reports that the number of licensed life insurance agents in the Philippines rose by over 15% between 2021 and 2023. Meanwhile, a 2023 JobStreet report found that over 50% of Filipino workers are open to career changes, citing flexibility, fulfillment, and income potential as top motivators.
These trends have opened the door for a more diverse and dynamic generation of financial advisors—OFWs seeking legacy-building roles, single parents looking for flexible careers, LGBTQIA+ trailblazers, educators, entrepreneurs, and everyday breadwinners redefining success.
One of the most compelling stories from this new wave is that of Kenzo Gan, a former corporate events and advertising professional who transitioned from part-time agent to full-time purpose-driven leader at Pru Life UK. In his rookie year in 2020, he was hailed as PruVenture’s first and only UMDRT (Million Dollar Round Table & unit manager promotee within the same year) awardee in all of Asia.
“I wanted something more challenging, something that made a real difference,” Gan recalled. That desire led him to explore financial advising on the side, using his advertising background to quickly build a network. Within just three months, he saw the opportunity not only for income, but for impact, and made the leap to full-time.
Uncertain Times
Gan’s career shift was further validated during the pandemic, when fears over health and finances brought financial protection to the forefront. “People became more open to talking about preparedness,” he shared. “I was able to help clients remotely and give them peace of mind when they needed it most.”
For Gan, this wasn’t just about numbers—it became deeply personal. One of his earliest and most emotional milestones was processing a claim for his aunt, who had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024. “That’s when it really hit me. This isn’t just a job. This is something that touches lives, including my own family.”
Training and Intention
Kenzo Gan and his team.
Gan credits his growth to Pru Life UK’s comprehensive training ecosystem, especially the PRUVenture program, which empowered him to build his business with clarity and confidence. “It’s not just about selling policies. It’s about providing peace of mind to Filipino families while building a career that aligns with who you are.”
That alignment led him to unprecedented success. Gan was a big deal in 2022! He was selected to represent Pru Life UK and the Philippines as a Focus Session Speaker in the Million Dollar Round Table Annual Meeting in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and the MDRT Global Conference in Sydney, Australia. He is the first Gen Z Filipino to be given this opportunity.
He was also named one of the Top 100 MDRTs of Pru Life UK in 2024. To date, Gan is also now a 3-Time Million Dollar Round Table Qualifying Member. Being an MDRT member means you are among the Top 1% of the world’s life insurance and financial services professionals.
Building a Life—and a Legacy—Together
Kenzo Gan with his partner.
But his journey didn’t stop with his own success. He inspired his partner, who worked at Pru Life UK’s head office, to try financial advising, even without prior experience or an established network. Eventually, his partner became the Top Rookie of the Year in his Unit, further proving that the industry welcomes those who lead with purpose, not just credentials.
“It was proof that anyone, regardless of background, can thrive here if they lead with authenticity,” Gan said.
Authenticity
More than performance, Gan believes authenticity is key to longevity. “You do you. Be honest about who you are and what you stand for. That’s what builds lasting trust with clients,” he shared.
This philosophy resonates across the new generation of advisors, who are breaking molds and challenging stereotypes in the insurance industry. They aren’t just selling policies—they’re building relationships, helping families, and securing futures with empathy and integrity.
It’s a purpose that hits close to home for Gan, who believes financial security shouldn’t come at the cost of truly living. “Saving is important, but life is meant to be enjoyed,” he said. “With insurance as your safety net, you can secure the future while living fully in the present.”
Kenzo Gan’s story is just one among many, but it represents a powerful shift. Across the country, financial advising is transforming into a movement of purpose, diversity, and empowerment. The profession offers not just a career—but a calling.
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