Brenda Akins is a Portfolio Manager and Wealth Advisor with CIBC World Markets Inc., bringing over 30 years of expertise to the investment industry. Brenda began her career as an Investment Advisor Assistant, guided by exceptional mentors who inspired her commitment to excellence. Early on, she recognized the unique value of combining her natural relationship-building abilities and strong family values with a client-focused financial advisory practice.

With a particular specialization in retirement income planning, Brenda is dedicated to helping clients confidently prepare for and enjoy their retirement years. She develops customized strategies that ensure financial security and peace of mind, tailoring each plan to meet the unique needs and goals of her clients.

Brenda is also passionate about empowering and educating investors. She believes that informed clients make better financial decisions, and she takes the time to explain complex investment concepts in a clear and approachable manner. Her goal is to instill confidence and understanding, so her clients feel truly supported at every stage of their financial journey.

A proud Calgarian, Brenda is committed to giving back to her community and is an active volunteer at the Calgary Drop-In Centre. She is a portfolio manager, holds the Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designation, and earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Calgary.

Ida Durante is a seasoned financial professional with over 30 years of experience in the investment industry. A native Calgarian, Ida has developed deep roots within the local community while building a distinguished career. She began her journey in the financial sector with Wood Gundy in 1993 and has since held a variety of roles across the industry, including significant experience in institutional trading and financial operations.

Throughout her career, Ida has demonstrated a commitment to professional growth and excellence, continually expanding her expertise across multiple facets of the investment landscape. Her dedication to professional growth is reflected in her pursuit of advanced industry certifications and mentoring emerging professionals. In 2016, she was pleased to return to CIBC Wood Gundy, where she rejoined a team of long-standing colleagues and friends.

Ida is proud to share her professional journey with the support of her husband and two daughters.

Giancarlo Spoletini was born and raised in Calgary. He is insurance licensed, and looks forward to expanding his knowledge within the financial services industry.

Giancarlo graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2020. While at university he was a student athlete on the Dinos football team. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends and is an avid sports fan.

Natalie Peluso began her career at Wood Gundy in 2023 after completing CIBC’s Private Wealth Rotational Program, where she gained exposure to CIBC’s Wealth Solutions, Private Banking and Wood Gundy teams. Natalie is working towards completing her CIM® designation.

Natalie is from Vaughan Ontario, where she completed her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Schulich School of Business at York University. In her spare time, Natalie goes back to Vaughan to visit family and friends and enjoys traveling.