Empowering Indigenous Youth

About the Program: Building Lifelong Financial Skills

The introduction to Financial Literacy course is designed to provide meaningful, authentic learning opportunities for students in Grade 6 to 9 through four comprehensive units:

1. The Past, Present, and Future
2. Saving Money
3. Spending Money Wisely
4. Balancing a Budget

These units not only teach practical financial strategies but also encourage critical thinking, collaboration, and confidence in decision-making. By sharing culturally relevant content, we also ensure that students see themselves as their experiences reflected in what they learn.

Standout Successes and Program Growth

Our reach has grown significantly, especially with our recent expansion to numerous schools across Nunavut. What began as a pilot with 200 students in the 2021-2022 school year has developed into a comprehensive program that now supports over 1,900 students across Canada. Today, we're proud to partner with 19 schools that have implemented the Introduction to Financial Literacy course, and we are in discussions with five more schools that are eager to join.

As one teacher shared, "I love seeing my students work together on activities that spark their interest and make them think beyond the classroom. This course has really connected them to real-world skills." The program's balance of group and individual activities has made a meaningful difference for both educators and students.

The Power of Partnerships

The achievements of our financial literacy program would not be possible without the generous support of our partner, NGen. Their ongoing commitment has allowed us to design, pilot, and expand the Introduction to Financial Literacy and Introduction to Entrepreneurship courses. This partnership exemplifies how working together can expand perspectives and lead to meaningful change.

We are equally proud of our partnerships with schools, whose staff play an essential role in bringing the program to life. While each school determines how to integrate the program, MFI provides the necessary books and resources at no cost and offers both preliminary training for teachers leading the course and ongoing support from our program coordinators. Importantly, these financial literacy resources are designed to supplement a Math or Career Studies class for students in Grades 6 to 9.

Griffin Marsh, Economic Well-Being Program Director, notes that "seeing the enthusiasm and dedication from students across these programs is a reminder of why this work matters. Financial literacy is empowerment; it equips our youth with tools for independence and informed decision-making."

Celebrating Our Impact: Voices from the Classroom

We're proud of the stories that come from participating students and teachers, and their experiences truly showcase the heart of the program. A student from a 2023-2024 cohort expressed, "I didn't realize budgeting could be something I'd actually enjoy. Now I feel like I can make better choices and set savings goals for things that matter to me." This kind of feedback motivates us to continue sharing resources that resonate with youth and inspire confidence.

Teachers have also seen firsthand how impactful the course is for students; one educator noted, "The growth I've witnessed in my students' understanding of money and planning for their future is incredible. It's more than just lessons—it's skills for life."

Looking Ahead: Continued Growth and Opportunity

With 19 schools already participating and with more eager to join, MFI is committed to expanding our financial literacy efforts to reach even more Indigenous students. This Financial Literacy Month, we celebrate not only the progress we've made but also the partnerships, stories, and shared vision that continue to drive us forward.

At MFI, we know that investing in the financial education of youth means investing in their futures. We are excited to keep expanding this program, deepening our connections with communities, and supporting students as they gain the confidence to make positive financial choices for the rest of their lives.

If this program could support you and your community or school, please reach out to Economic Well-Being Program Director Griffin Marsh at gmarsh@themfi.ca!