Korinne Sugasawara, CFP®, AFC®
Founder of Kite and Compass Financial
Korinne Korinne helps people chart their own financial course—especially when that path doesn't fit the traditional mold. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, she creates financial plans for people who want their money to support the life they're building. She has deep expertise working with California public employees, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and neurodivergent folks, understanding the unique considerations these communities face.
With over a decade as a CalPERS member and public employee, plus experience drafting pension legislation for the California State Senate, Korinne brings insider knowledge to help public sector employees maximize their benefits and create real work flexibility. She understands the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities and approaches financial planning with warmth, cultural competency, and zero judgment.
Korinne's journey into financial planning began when she was turned away by an advisor for not having "enough" money. Rather than accept that barrier, she dove into personal finance education, discovered the FIRE movement, and learned to navigate her money independently. A transformative bike accident reminded her that life isn't lived in spreadsheets—it's about aligning your money with what truly matters to you.
Beyond her CFP® certification, Korinne is an Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®) and volunteers with Women's Money Matters and Savvy Ladies, expanding financial access for underserved communities.
When she's not discussing pension strategies or facilitating money conversations, you'll find Korinne experimenting with new recipes, biking around San Jose, enjoying low-key park hangs with friends, or getting lost in a good sci-fi or fantasy novel. She'll always stop to say hi to a good dog.
contact Korinne.
Kite and Compass Financial
korinne@corepln.com