Her Story
About Myla
Myla Iskander is a Wealth Management Advisor and CLTC professional at Northwestern Mutual, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, with more than 14 years of experience helping individuals, families, and business owners create thoughtful financial strategies. She specializes in developing personalized plans focused on wealth building, preservation, retirement planning, estate planning, tax reduction strategies, and long-term financial security. Through an empathetic, relationship-driven approach, Myla works to ensure her clients’ financial goals align with their personal values and visions for the future.
A graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Myla has built a successful career by combining financial expertise, dedication, and a commitment to serving others. She holds the CLTC (Certification in Long-Term Care) designation and is recognized for her ability to guide women business owners, professionals, and those approaching retirement through complex financial decisions. Throughout her career, she has earned recognition including the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Up & Comers Award and multiple Pathfinder Awards from Northwestern Mutual.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Myla is deeply committed to community service and giving back. She volunteers with organizations including Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, Junior Achievement USA, St. Pete Free Clinic, and Ronald McDonald House, supporting causes that create meaningful impact. She attributes her success to grit, determination, and the ability to build lasting relationships in a traditionally challenging industry. As a working mother of four, Myla brings resilience, compassion, and a strong sense of purpose to both her career and her commitment to helping others achieve financial confidence and independence.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Myla
01What do you attribute your success to?
It's definitely grit. I built a book on my own. There was no being handed clients. It was a lot of sourcing and developing relationships. You can be the smartest person book-wise, but if you don't have that grit and determination in building something for yourself in entrepreneurial spirit, then it's really hard to make it in this field.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Early in my career, I learned that success is rarely achieved alone. I immersed myself in study groups that challenged me to grow, expand my knowledge, and build confidence in my abilities. One of the most meaningful influences during those early years was working alongside a female advisor who served as a case consultant. Her guidance and willingness to share her experience helped me navigate both the technical aspects of the work and the realities of building a career in wealth management. That mentorship reinforced the value of collaboration and the importance of supporting others as they develop their own professional paths.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Just be yourself. People now want to work with people they can relate to, and have shared values and alignment and culture. Don't be afraid to show who you truly are. You gotta have grit, determination and not be afraid of people saying no.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
When I started, it was a 95% turnover rate... male-dominated industry... Now clients want advisors not approaching retirement for longevity. Women are becoming more breadwinners so they relate to a female perspective differently, which has been a huge benefit.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Blending being a business owner and having four children, three of which after I started this career. Navigating that space as a working mom and a breadwinner for our household.
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