Money Talks (Virtual)

In 2022, young adults often do not feel in control of their own finances. Resources are few and quality jobs are scarce, and just as we are entering into adult life we can already feel weighed down by stress from the economy. This can cause life to be difficult and frustrating, and for many of us, spaces like banks and real estate firms can be unwelcoming and built in ways that limit us from accessing support and information. In efforts to combat this, the Ledge Research Team is hosting Money Talks (virtual event) to empower young adults to take more control over their financial situation and to provide an open space to discuss challenges with financial institutions.

Featuring four panelists with experience in the housing market, frauds and scams, economic barriers to newcomers and pay negotiations, this event will provide actionable knowledge on systems and institutions that are often inaccessible. Money Talks will also feature fun activities to provide connection and comfort when many young adults are feeling isolated from our communities and friends.

This event is taking place on Zoom on June 5th from 12-3:30. When you sign up you will receive the link to access the event. Money Talks is FREE thanks to the generous support of the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital Foundation.

Financial Empowerment for Young Adults in Ontario is a pilot session for Ledge Leadership, and we are greatly interested in your feedback to help make future events serve young adults. We hope to see you there!

Our Guests:

Karen Kolsza - Topic of Housing

In addition to her 6+ years of experience as a REALTOR®, Karen Kalosza has an extensive background in Customer Service and brings a broad range of skills, including critical attention to detail and the personable ability to comfort and assure during major life events such as selling or buying a home. These skills, honed during past experience as a birthing coach (doula), mean that you will benefit from her empathetic nature and understanding of the impact that change means for her clients.

Wincy Li - Topic of Pay Negociation

Wincy Li (she/her) is currently the Associate Director of Career Education at the Toronto Metropolitan University. With extensive experience in career, academic, and life skills advising, in both higher education and the community services sector, Wincy has supported many post-secondary students, newcomers to Canada, and student affairs professionals in pursuing their career and professional development goals. As a former international first-generation student herself, Wincy has also been involved in research projects that examine international students' labour market and immigration experience in Canada.

Darian Solander - Topic of New Comers

Darian Selander is a queer woman living in Edmonton, Ab. She had an unsatisfactory career in personal and then commercial banking, and then stumbled into financial empowerment. There she learned about psychology of finances, financial triggers, and so much more by listening to the folks around about their feelings about money. Darian now is working on multiple creative projects, helping folks with taxes, and gardening in her backyard.