Our team

Li Yu  MBA, CIM, CFP

Senior Portfolio Manager, Senior Investment Advisor

Tel. 289.288.2416
Li.Yu@RichardsonWealth.com 

Li Yu has been in the wealth management industry since 2011 and is dedicated to helping motivated families navigate the complexities of today's volatile financial landscape. His mission is to empower clients to live financially fulfilling lives on their own terms, turning money into wealth.

Li learned the business under his mentor, the late Robert Hesp, who guided him through the first decade of his career and taught him investing, financial planning, and behavioural coaching. Today Li serves as Senior Portfolio Manager and Senior Investment Advisor with Yu & Associates Wealth Management, where his practice brings together three disciplines: investment management, advanced planning, and close, long-term client relationships. He holds the Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) designation and the CFP® certification.

Born in China, Li came to Canada to further his education, earning an MBA in Finance from Brock University and a Master of Theological Studies from Tyndale University. His passion for learning is matched by an adventurous spirit, which he nurtures through fishing, travelling, and volunteering in his community.

Li and his wife, Elodia, make their home in Niagara with their daughter, Anna, and their beloved dog, Audi. Beyond his professional work, Li is a long-time supporter of several charities, including Veterans Helping Veterans, ParaSport Ontario, and Niagara Youth Need Sports, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community he calls home.

In every part of his life, Li exemplifies a dedication to service, community, and helping others achieve financial freedom.

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Jessica Banka

Associate

Tel. 289.288.2417
Jessica.Banka@RichardsonWealth.com 

As the key point of contact for clients, Jessica has the unique ability to connect with clients on an emotional level, while helping them navigate the administrative elements of wealth management.

Jessica got her start in financial services as a bank teller, seeing first-hand the day-to-day experiences of clients’ relationships with their money. That led her to the realization that she wanted to play a bigger role in helping clients – particularly families – manage their money and make big life decisions surrounding wealth and investing. In 2013, she started working alongside Li Yu, moving with him to Richardson Wealth in 2021. She continues to deliver an unrivaled approach to service excellence.

Jessica has a degree in Biology from Brock University and is licensed as an Investment Representative. She lives in Welland with her partner, Ryan, their 2 children and their dog. They make time to get out on the water boating and enjoy getaways up north.

Lauren Hesp

Associate

Tel. 289.288.2422
Lauren.Hesp@RichardsonWealth.com 

Lauren joined our team in 2022 as an assistant to help with our administrative operations. She brings with her plenty of experience in customer service and enjoys working with others in a collaborative environment. She is pleased to be part of a team who puts exceptional service at the forefront of their operations.

Lauren graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2021. Inspired by her late father’s successful career in wealth management, and his encouragement that she would find enjoyment and impact in this career, she decided to follow in his footsteps. She enjoys the opportunity to get to know our clients on a personal level, while also providing them with superior service at every opportunity.

Lauren lives in St. Catharines with her husband and their beloved golden retriever. They enjoy spending plenty of time together, whether it's hiking, backcountry camping, or enjoying quality time with their families in both St. Catharines and Owen Sound.

Winnie Zheng

Business Development Assistant

Tel. 289.288.2423
Winnie.Zheng@RichardsonWealth.com 

Winnie joined our team as a Business Development Assistant in August 2024. Prior to relocating to Canada, she worked as a marketing specialist for an international fashion website. As her career progressed, she felt the need to further her education, which led her to pursue an MBA in Marketing at Brock University.

After completing her MBA, Winnie quickly adapted to Canadian life and gained valuable customer service experience through a Co-op placement in a customer service center. She then delved into the winery and tourism industry, honing her skills in marketing and content creation, and evolving into a well-rounded professional.

In addition to her professional achievements, Winnie is a passionate part-time photographer specializing in portrait and event photography. She enjoys capturing the essence of people and moments, and finds creative inspiration in her leisure activities, which include reading and crocheting.

Winnie lives in Welland with her husband and their 10-year-old cat, Summer. Together, they enjoy road trips, hiking, and have recently taken up pickleball as their new favorite summer activity.