VOLUNTEER

I moved to the United States from Ukraine in 2022 because of the war. Starting over in a new country came with many challenges, but it also gave me a deeper appreciation for the things that bring stability and purpose—like knowledge and community.

Finance has always been a part of my world. Both of my parents worked in the financial field, so I grew up surrounded by conversations about investing, planning, and making smart financial choices. That early exposure sparked a real interest in understanding how money works and how it can shape someone’s future.

When I was 11, still living in Ukraine, I took part in the G2020 Young Finance Scholar Program for middle school students, offered by the New York Institute of Finance. That experience made a lasting impression on me and deepened my desire to continue learning. Today, I’m studying personal investing through a Georgetown University program designed for high school students.

As part of my learning journey, I help facilitate financial literacy games for teens and newcomers. It’s a fun and interactive way to make money topics easier to understand. I enjoy seeing people become more confident in their financial decisions.

To me, financial literacy isn’t just about numbers—it’s about empowerment. It’s about helping people feel prepared, especially when life takes unexpected turns. I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned because I believe everyone deserves the chance to build a strong financial future, no matter where they come from or what challenges they’ve faced.