A legacy of loyalty: 46 years of service at Sun Life
- At 85, Lachman Balani reflects on his commitment to clients, the strength of integrity and the art of purposeful living
[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.]
Putting clients first, fostering optimism, ensuring financial security and living a healthy life – these principles have shaped Lachman Balani’s lifelong career as a financial planner with Sun Life, inspiring others along the way.
“There was a personal touch – you were treated as an individual, not just a number. If I had an issue, I could speak directly with the CEO. That kind of approach made all the difference.”
For Balani, financial planning is rooted in building genuine relationships.
“This work is about understanding people’s needs and helping them navigate uncertainties. It’s not just about policies and numbers; it’s about being there when you’re needed most,” he explains.
Balani’s approach to life mirrors the principles Sun Life promotes – optimism, balance and care.
He maintains a disciplined routine that includes walking five times a week, reaching up to 10,000 steps. His days are rounded out with meditation, reading and quiet time at his temple, which he describes as his “time for peace”.
In these moments, Balani reconnects with his purpose, finding strength in spirituality and the teachings of his faith.
“If any tension comes, it’s there only for a few minutes,” he reflects. “Applying the principles of my religious teachings, it vanishes. It’s an art which very few people can acquire.”
While Balani has long passed traditional retirement age, he has no plans to stop working. “My clients motivate me,” he says simply. “I feel responsible for their well-being and their families.”
“Age is just a number,” he says. “Your youth is a gift of nature, but old age is something you create for yourself.”
His outlook reflects his belief that small, thoughtful actions can bring clarity and peace. “If a moment of stress arises, I turn to the teachings of my faith. It helps me regain focus almost immediately,” he shares.
Aware of poverty from an early age, he shares Sun Life’s ethos through long-term support for care homes, orphanages and shelters, often delivering essentials himself.
“Trust isn’t built overnight. It comes from consistency and respect.”
Through his mentoring, he instils a sense of purpose in the next generation of advisers, encouraging them to see their work as a means of making a meaningful difference in clients’ lives.
He takes pride in seeing the company grow from 50 agents when he joined to over 2,700 today, attributing his long tenure to its unwavering commitment to honesty and integrity.
As he reflects on nearly five decades of a career with Sun Life, Balani's legacy is one of quiet dedication and impactful service. He hopes to be remembered for his actions rather than accolades.
“I work in silence,” he says thoughtfully. “Let my success and deeds define my legacy. I prefer to let my work speak for itself,” he says. “I’m also thankful to my parents, family and friends for their support over these 46 years with Sun Life.”
“As Mother Teresa put it, ‘If you are humble, nothing can touch you – neither praise nor disgrace.”
Balani’s rewarding career in financial planning is a culmination of what Sun Life does to cultivate advisers who exemplify genuine care, professionalism, inspiration and resilience.