Plant The Seed

Kizuwanda Walton is a highly respected Estate Planning Attorney dedicated to helping individuals and families protect their assets and legacies. A Southern California native, born in Los Angeles and raised in the Inland Empire, Kizuwanda brings a unique understanding of the local community to her practice. She earned her undergraduate degree from UCLA and graduated from the University of Miami School of Law with honors. For 19 years, she has served her community through public service, including court appointments to represent indigent clients and pro-bono work with local organizations. As owner of Walton Firm, she specializes in Estate Planning and Trust Administration and is recognized as a California Bar Certified Legal Specialist. Kizuwanda is also active in community outreach, educating families on the importance of estate planning and empowering them to safeguard their futures.

Mary N. Bermudez is the Founder and Managing Director of Insight Tax Consulting, CPAs, bringing extensive tax expertise to privately held companies, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. A graduate of the USC Leventhal School of Accounting, she began her career with national accounting firms, gaining experience in complex tax matters and practice management. She later earned her Master’s in Taxation from Golden Gate University. Mary is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, offering expert guidance and professionalism to her clients. She has served as a tax panel expert for the USC Alumni Association and is a frequent motivational speaker and mentor to college and high school students. Actively involved in her community, Mary serves on several boards. She and her family enjoy USC football and weekends in the local mountains.

Karl Leonard Hicks is a founding member of The Leonard Financial Group, LLC, with over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. He began his career in retail accounting and has worked in retail, real estate, and entertainment. A graduate of California Baptist College, he later earned his MBA from California Baptist University. In 2004, he became a Certified Financial Planner™ professional, and in 2019, he received the Accredited Estate Planner® designation. His expertise has been featured in outlets such as The Press Enterprise, Wealth Management, and CNBC.com. A Riverside native and Leadership Riverside graduate, Mr. Hicks has served extensively in the Inland Empire, including roles with City Committees and several boards. He is a past president of the Financial Planning Association’s Inland Empire Chapter, the Estate Planning Council of Riverside County, and the Mission Inn Foundation.