Empowering Financial Discussions at CapitalCon
The Little Rock Statehouse Convention Center was buzzing with discussions on debt, generational wealth, investing, and homeownership this Saturday, marking a significant stride in financial education. The event, dubbed CapitalCon, was a city-hosted initiative funded by the African American Mayors Association’s Economic Mobility Leadership Institute. The daylong symposium featured two pivotal educational panels that addressed key financial literacy topics.
Navigating Financial Challenges and Solutions
The first panel, titled “Don’t Jeopardize My Future,” featured Brandon Brown from Encompass Realty Group, who emphasized the modern appeal and critical importance of building generational wealth. Brown advocated for early financial education to ensure wealth sustainability across generations, suggesting that “it’s the small fundamental financial habits that you build and teach in the home that translate to generational wealth.” Myron Jackson, COO of The Design Group, highlighted the unique challenges minorities face in accumulating wealth, likening the lack of access to capital and information to unrelenting waves that keep one from reaching the sea.
Broadening Financial Understanding and Access
The event saw an impressive turnout with nearly 400 attendees, including aspiring entrepreneurs like Johnnie Matlock from Little Rock, who sought to understand resources available for starting her own legal practice. Kendra Pruitt, Little Rock’s chief of staff and event organizer, pointed out that financial hurdles underpin many societal issues such as education, health disparities, and crime. The panels were carefully selected to address the most pressing needs of the community, with a focus on actionable solutions and practical advice to foster economic empowerment and resolve family financial conflicts effectively.