Imagine graduating with a highly competitive Bachelor’s degree, eventually earning over $100,000 per year, and still living paycheck to paycheck with eventually a zero or negative net worth left to pass on to the next generation. This is the trajectory of many families across the nation and one that a local business is stepping up to help solve.

Earlier this month, students from Valdosta State University’s National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) chapter invited H. DeWayne Johnson, co-owner of BridgeBuilder Education & Investments, to speak to the organization on the subject of financial literacy and received more than they expected. Students actively listened and engaged themselves as Johnson introduced to them not only basic budgeting and debt reduction techniques, but the evening seminar included wealth accumulation strategies and the proper mindset for financial success.

“Without knowledge of financial fundamentals, how to properly use debt, and exposure to wealth strategies, we will continue to see wealth disparity within our communities that struggle to move to the next level. We are putting together an empowerment plan that places financial literacy first,” stated Johnson. “Our intention here is to not only help the audience understand how to stabilize their household finances but to create wealth and leverage it in the future so that money is never an issue for them and their following generations. At that point, the only barrier to financial success is execution and discipline.”

According to the press release, the goal of the BridgeBuilder initiative is for audiences to walk away with a heightened curiosity and a feeling of urgency to make smart financial decisions. As part of the BridgeBuilder seminars, individuals are introduced to facets of financial education such as budgeting, debt reduction, an investment mindset, and wealth accumulation.

Over the course of the BridgeBuilder seminar, 17 college students had their interests piqued in relation to tools they can utilize in order to help them eliminate their early experiences with debt and simple, smart decisions for building their future empires. Among the attendees was future 2020 VSU graduate, Kyanna Jackson.

“I cannot put a price on the value of the information shared at this training. I would do it 50 times over,” said Jackson, who coordinated Johnson as the speaker for the event and serves as the NCNW Dorothy Height Committee Chair. “I am planning to follow up with BridgeBuilder Education & Investments for further guidance and instruction. I have already shared the information that I have learned with my family and friends.”

According to Jackson, an essential part of the NCNW chapter is to create opportunities for personal development and growth for VSU students. Working with Johnson was an opportunity for students to interact with a leader from the Valdosta-Lowndes business community who they share commonalities with.  

“I enjoy the opportunities to meet individuals and groups where they are with regard to their levels of financial literacy, increasing their financial insight and confidence, and giving them practical strategies they can implement as soon as they exit the seminar,” added Johnson.