More than 1,000 young people aged sixteen to thirty-five attended Westpac’s free financial literacy training at the Western Regional Adventist Youth Easter Camp from 29 March to 1 April, at Drasa Secondary School in Lautoka. 

The Financial First Steps workshop, led by Westpac-accredited trainers, helped participants manage finances better by teaching skills like budgeting. 

Participants like Ratu Manoa Kaiyanuyanu learned about the Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely or SMART principle for financial planning. 

Westpac’s Chief Executive Officer, Shane Smith, emphasised the program’s aim to provide free financial advice for all, empowering families to make better financial decisions. 

Siblings, Ruth and Sam Auto from the Solomon Islands found the session practical, learning about saving and wise money use, including tithe and offerings. 

Westpac offers two free programmes, Financial First Steps and Business Basics, to support financial literacy education in the community, encouraging people to sign up by emailing Maryangela maryangelahenry@westpac.com. au.