Financial literacy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a superpower for the next generation. In a country where financial inclusion is more important than ever, FWD Life Insurance and Junior Achievement (JA) Philippines are taking bold steps to ensure young Filipinos are not only dreaming big but also planning smart. Their flagship program, JA SparktheDream, recently kicked off its third year, bringing hands-on financial education to hundreds of eager students in Makati City and beyond.
Sparking Ambition in Schools
This year, the program launched with an exciting face-to-face session at Pembo Elementary School, where over 200 grade six students explored financial concepts through interactive, activity-based learning. FWD volunteers guided the students, demonstrating that managing money can be both fun and empowering.
As part of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, FWD is using JA SparktheDream to equip young Filipinos with essential financial skills, nurturing confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Impact Across the Philippines and Beyond
Since 2022, the program has reached more than 14,600 students nationwide. Its success in the Philippines also helped extend FWD’s collaboration with JA Asia Pacific, impacting over 37,000 students across the region far exceeding initial expectations.
FWD’s Chief Marketing & Digital Commerce Officer, Gavin Lai, highlighted the importance of starting financial education early. He shared that empowering youth with money management skills lays the groundwork for a more inclusive and prosperous Philippines, enabling them to positively influence their families and communities.
Words of Inspiration from FWD Leaders
At the launch, FWD Chief Agency Officer Nol De Leon encouraged students to pursue their dreams with determination. “Whatever your dreams are, you can achieve them with focus, discipline, and the right mindset,” he said, stressing that financial literacy is the stepping stone to turning ambitions into reality.
Meanwhile, FWD Chief Life Operations Officer Judith Baliton offered practical advice for building healthy financial habits early: “Spend only half of your money on the things you want, and save the other half. Dreaming is free, but it should be matched with action. Don’t just dream, do the work.”
Preparing Youth for a Changing Financial Landscape
In a world shaped by digital innovation and evolving economies, programs like JA SparktheDream are vital. By combining financial knowledge, confidence, and practical skills, FWD is helping students make empowered choices and design the futures they aspire to. This initiative represents a significant stride toward a financially inclusive Philippines where every young Filipino is ready to shape their best life.
For parents, teachers, and young Filipinos, programs like JA SparktheDream are more than lessons, they’re opportunities to spark curiosity, ambition, and practical money skills that last a lifetime. If you’re looking for ways to help children develop smart financial habits, keep an eye on FWD and JA Philippines, they’re making financial literacy a fun and attainable dream for every student.