On February 8th, my husband and I attended the “Take Control of Your Money” training session organized by Kathy Washington, under her company Elevate with Ms. Kathy. This experience was genuinely uplifting and informative. The event, hosted by Zee Barrett, provided a supportive environment for individuals to discuss and understand personal finance better.
The importance of financial literacy cannot be overstated, as many face challenges in grasping concepts related to managing money. This session allowed participants to lay everything on the table regarding their knowledge and experiences with finances.
A key focus of the training was to address common financial obstacles. Attending this session also offered a chance for individuals to learn about becoming club leaders to facilitate their own sessions. Club leaders are encouraged to possess strong communication skills, a passion for financial education, and the ability to inspire young people. This initiative is crucial because empowering younger generations to understand money will benefit them throughout their lives.
The atmosphere of the event was welcoming, with finger foods, coffee, and tea available to create a relaxed setting. Once everyone introduced themselves, we engaged in discussions about the pitfalls we encountered in our financial journeys. The icebreaker activities were ingeniously crafted to lead us into conversations about money without feeling pressured.
One question that resonated throughout the session was about the best financial advice participants ever received. The variety of responses highlighted the importance of financial education and the impact that such workshops can have on individuals' outlooks on finance. As a teenager, I was advised not to spend all my money in one place, so, naturally, I engaged in shopping everywhere, which led to a lack of financial discipline. This humorous misunderstanding serves as a reminder that it's never too late to reassess and alter my financial perspective.
The diverse group present included an accountant, a former social studies teacher, a banker, and Kathy's 17-year-old daughter. As a city worker, I had no problem sharing my own misunderstanding of financial advice received during my teenage years. This question posed during the session stood out: "What is the best financial advice you have ever received?" It really prompted thoughtful responses from all attendees and highlighted the universal challenges we face regarding our financial decisions.
It was enlightening to realize that even with misconceptions, it is never too late to change one's financial perspective.
In addition to discussions, a comprehensive training handbook provided a well-structured guide covering essential financial topics. These included understanding the significance of money, the basics of investing, and preparing for life events such as the passing of loved ones. This session not only cultivated a greater understanding of personal finance but also encouraged participants to take charge of their financial future.
I left the session feeling empowered and eager to involve my soon to be 15-year-old daughter in future events. I highly recommend Elevate with Ms. Kathy’s workshops to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of personal finance and transform their financial futures. What could be more exciting than leading your own club session and stepping up as a club leader?
About the owner:
Kathy Washington is a seasoned financial literacy educator, committed to empowering teens and young adults to master their finances.
She founded the 'Take Control of Your Money' program, offering engaging and practical financial education sessions.
Kathy's mission is to make financial literacy accessible and relatable, enabling young people to build a robust financial foundation.
About the company
Financial literacy has become an essential skill in today's world, as it equips individuals with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions. Ms. Kathy's financial literacy program, originally designed with a primary focus on women, has expanded its vision to encompass a broader audience, recognizing the unique financial journeys of both genders. “As I reflect on the differences in my son’s and daughter’s financial journeys, it has become evident that financial education is crucial for everyone, particularly for teens and young adults who are just beginning to navigate their financial futures.” says Ms. Kathy.
The initial focus was on women in Ms. Kathy's program which was significant, as historically, women have faced unique financial challenges, including wage disparities and the effects of societal norms. By empowering women through financial literacy, the program aimed to enhance their ability to manage resources effectively, make investments, and plan for long-term financial stability. However, as I observed the involvement of men expressing interest in financial education, I realized that these skills are not confined to any one gender. Financial literacy is a universal need, and everyone can benefit from the knowledge that enables them to take control of their financial lives.
To tailor the program effectively, Ms. Kathy decided to focus on two specific groups: adults and teens/young adults. “This strategy allows us to engage diverse perspectives while also appealing to their specific needs and experiences. For adults, the program can provide valuable insights into budgeting, debt management, retirement planning, and investment strategies. For teens and young adults, introducing financial education at a formative stage is paramount.” she continues.
Topics such as managing student loans, understanding credit scores, and making smart spending choices could significantly influence their financial trajectories.
Recent years have underscored the importance of financial literacy, particularly amid economic uncertainties caused by global events. Many individuals found themselves unprepared for unexpected financial challenges, highlighting the necessity of having a strong financial foundation. Through Ms. Kathy's program, participants can gain practical skills and knowledge that can be applied in real-life scenarios.
Ms. Kathy's financial literacy program has evolved from focusing solely on women to embracing a more inclusive approach that recognizes the importance of educating all individuals. By targeting adults and teens/young adults, the program aims to create a comprehensive understanding of financial literacy that resonates with everyone. For those interested in joining this valuable journey, further information and registration can be accessed HERE:ElevatewithMs.Kathy@gmail.com
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