Promoting financial literacy to promote minority community development

The event was targeted to youth minorities in Montreal and focused on the importance of financial management from an individual consumption perspective and on capital resources management (savings and investment). Brian Smith, Financial Literacy Coordinator at Carrefour Jeunesse Emploi, talked about the need for access and resources to develop financial literacy skills early in life. He added that a multi-stakeholder approach, involving community representatives, government, and educators, is necessary to reach those who need this training most. Julie Lemieux spoke on behalf of the Autorité des marchés financiers and described the AMF financial market governing activities and other initiatives to support financial literacy training in Quebec. The three organizing groups were also joined by members from the NDG Black Community Association, DESTA Black Youth Network, Quebec Board of Black Educators, Black Studies Center, English Montreal School Board, Concordia Institute for Co-op Education and JMSB faculty.