“When we help young people establish strong financial habits early, we are supporting their individual financial stability and helping create a foundation for long-term wealth building. Often, we are disrupting cycles of generational poverty and positioning the next generation to build, preserve, and transfer wealth.”
Breana Curry, senior program manager at the Urban League of Greater Atlanta’s Financial Empowerment Center, made that statement in noting the success of a young woman, Daisha, who recently participated in the League’s Young CEOs program.
“One of the most rewarding parts of Daisha’s story is seeing her move from Young CEOs into sustained financial coaching and continue applying what she learned to real-life milestones,” Ms. Curry said. “Her journey shows the value of introducing financial empowerment early and creating opportunities for young adults to continue receiving guidance as their lives, careers, and financial responsibilities evolve.”
In the Young CEOs program, Daisha’s business idea won the pitch competition. When the program ended, Daisha moved into an eight-month individualized financial coaching period. This allowed her to immediately build upon the financial concepts she learned as a Young CEO and to extend them to her personal goals.
During this period, she achieved meaningful financial and personal milestones. She obtained a new credit card and successfully applied the credit-management strategies developed through coaching to responsibly manage the account. As she continued strengthening her credit profile, her credit score increased from 687 to 732—a 45-point improvement. Daisha also purchased her first vehicle, marking another significant step toward independence and financial stability.
Through ongoing coaching, Daisha developed a stronger understanding of credit management and financial decision-making. She transitioned from feeling financially insecure and uncertain about her future to feeling more confident and empowered in managing her finances.
“I am incredibly proud of all the progress I have made in such a short time working with Eusevius, my financial coach,” Daisha said.
Daisha has now earned her bachelor’s degree and secured full-time employment at a pharmacy, moving ahead in her quest to achieve economic mobility and career advancement.
Her experience reflects the value of financial education and individualized coaching, particularly for young adults. In her continued engagement with the League, Daisha made progress in multiple areas — from credit building and responsible use of financial products to employment, education, asset acquisition, and tools for economic stability.
As she traverses the next stage of her journey, Daisha can confidently rely on her strong financial foundation to help her achieve her goals.
