As we step into a new year, it's the perfect time to set our sights on financial prosperity. I deem this the year of good fortune. So, whether you're looking to increase your credit score, build up your savings, dive into investing, start your own business, or embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip, 2024 is the ideal year to make it happen.

Let me outline a few things that are needed to make this happen!

My WHY and yours may come from different points of view. However, I think we can agree the importance of financial literacy has to be a national topic of conversation in all communities. In order for communities to thrive and individuals to prosper, there must be an open dialogue surrounding financial literacy. A comprehensive understanding of financial matters goes beyond the realm of personal finance. It directly impacts our local and national economies, job markets, and overall societal well-being. By addressing financial literacy as a national issue, we can foster economic growth, reduce income inequality, and promote financial stability for all.

Recent reports claim that the African American community is on track to see their wealth reach zero in just over a generation. As someone with experience in the financial services industry, I cannot say that this comes as a surprise. The evidence of economic and financial inequality is overwhelming. African Americans are underemployed, under-housed, under-banked, and under-insured. Our communities currently have the lowest economic numbers and key financial metrics compared to most ethnic groups. We are being outpaced by Asian and Hispanic Americans in almost every economic category except spending. While we spend nearly $1.9 trillion dollars, we struggle to maintain savings accounts or emergency funds. We fall behind in investing or having retirement and insurance plans. Our credit scores are the lowest of any ethnic group. However, there is an encouraging conversation happening in the African American community. We are beginning to have honest dialogues, share collaborative ideations, showcase courageous mindsets, and take action.