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Empowered Participants at Financial Literacy Conference
It’s never too late to learn about finances, and individuals in Albany took advantage of this opportunity at a financial literacy conference to master strategies for overcoming student loans and paving the way to financial freedom.
Charles Spence, a history teacher in the Albany City School District, switched from his role as an educator to that of a student at the conference, eager to improve his financial knowledge.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Spence shared, “I grew up in a low-income neighborhood…my mother had to take care of us kids. She budgeted her money and emphasized the importance of saving.”
A recent SUNY Plattsburgh graduate and Bronx native, Spence is among many New Yorkers facing student loan debt. However, the conference provided him with valuable information and motivation to face his financial challenges.
“Coming here and having this motivation to come up with a better budget plan… I feel like I’m going to get there in no time,” Spence said.
Organized as the first of its kind, the 518 Financial Literacy Conference brought together participants to delve deeper into topics such as wealth, investing, budgeting and preparing for the future. The event aimed to make personal finance accessible to communities that often lack these resources, in a culturally responsible and relevant way.
Attendees participated in interactive sessions led by speakers, generating laughter and serious conversations.
James Mitchell, co-founder of the event and founder of Young Futures Inc., emphasized the importance of budgeting as a key skill for financial success.
“Budgeting, which may seem very basic, if you budget properly now, you can move on to other sectors such as credit and investment,” advised Mitchell.
As participants looked to the future and focused on their personal financial journey, they expressed hope in sowing seeds that would one day bear fruit.
Spence envisioned his future endeavors, stating, “I’ve got plenty of time to build it and then take advantage of what I’ve learned. One day, get into real estate and have a house, get properties to rent to college students.”