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Hey ForbesBLK, Ayisha Mendez here. 

What does financial success mean to you? For many in the ForbesBLK community, it often represents owning businesses, having the time to invest in ourselves, and securing a stable financial future for the next generation. 

Finland serves as an exemplary model when it comes to financial success and offers valuable lessons. The country requires students to complete a 10-lesson program focused on financial awareness, promoting everyday commerce education. This initiative is part of Finland’s goal to be the world leader in financial literacy by 2030. With such a strong commitment to preparing its next generation for financial well-being, it’s no surprise that Finland has been named the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year.

The thing is, Finland isn’t alone in this mission. 

In this week’s episode of The Enterprise Zone, John Hope Bryant, the founder and CEO of Operation HOPE, sat down with Forbes senior writer Jabari Young as we conclude Financial Literacy Month. In the interview, Bryant explores how U.S. cities can implement Atlanta’s child savings program, which opens accounts as early as kindergarten. According to Operation HOPE, the initiative has already created over 5,000 savings accounts with more than $260,000 in deposits.

Imagine what would be possible if more parents started to build wealth for their kids from day one. 

Financial literacy isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a blueprint for generational wealth, mental health, and success. That’s what it means to me. 

Until next time, stay connected with me on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Ayisha Miracle Mendez Community Manager, ForbesBLK

Follow me on Forbes.com

BLK STORIES OF THE WEEK
John Hope Bryant, the CEO of the nonprofit organization Operation HOPE, joins Forbes senior writer Jabari Young on The Enterprise Zone at Nasdaq MarketSite. During their discussion, Bryant addresses the ongoing financial literacy challenges facing the country in 2025. He emphasizes the need for the U.S. to adopt inclusive economic practices similar to those in Finland and Singapore.

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AROUND THE COMMUNITY
On April 30, join ForbesBLK National Advisor John Hope Bryant for the Green Sock Day Challenge to raise awareness about financial literacy. Participants can engage by sharing a selfie or video in green socks with the hashtag #ForbesBLK #Greensocksday, taking a financial literacy quiz, and signing up for free financial coaching through the nonprofit Operation HOPE. Register here to confirm your participation.

Also happening April 30, One Million Black Businesses (1MBB) will host its "Building Business Credit for Small Business" workshop. The virtual session will also explore establishing a business identity, keeping personal and business finances separate, types of business credit available, managing business credit, and avoiding pitfalls. Register here to attend.