As a member of the Wandsworth Youth Council, I was deeply committed to addressing the challenges faced by young people in our borough. One key issue that caught my attention was the alarming lack of financial literacy among our peers. Determined to make a difference, I spearheaded the organisation of a Financial Literacy Event tailored specifically for young individuals aged 14 to 19 in Wandsworth. This event aimed to enhance their understanding of financial matters, covering topics such as budgeting, job application essentials like cover letters and CVs, and demystifying student finance.
From the outset, my goal was clear: to empower our youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the financial world with confidence. Working tirelessly alongside my fellow council members, we meticulously planned every aspect of the event, from securing venues to managing logistics and event bookings. Despite the challenges of balancing work and studies, our shared passion for community development kept us motivated and focused.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the informative presentation on student finance, where I had the opportunity to address common misconceptions and provide valuable insights. Seeing the engagement and eagerness of the attendees to learn was truly gratifying. Additionally, we incorporated interactive elements like a Kahoot game to reinforce key concepts and ensure active participation.
It was immensely fulfilling to witness the impact of our efforts as 25 young individuals actively participated in the event, meeting our attendance goal. Beyond the numbers, I knew that we had made a meaningful difference in the lives of those present.
Reflecting on the event afterwards, I was struck by the realization that our work had only just begun. The positive feedback and gratitude expressed by attendees served as a reminder of the importance of ongoing education and support in building financial literacy. Moving forward, I am committed to continuing our efforts to empower young people in Wandsworth and beyond, ensuring that they have the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world.
