On November 24, 2022, 35 students from St. Margaret’s School in Victoria got a unique opportunity to learn about financial health through a customized full-day JA program held at the offices of British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (BCI).

BCI invests over $211 billion on behalf of British Columbia’s public sector and is one of the largest asset managers in Canada. Building on their long-standing connection with JA British Columbia, the Financial Literacy Committee at BCI designed a variety of engaging program activities for these Grade 8 students.

Held during November’s Financial Literacy Month, lessons on the importance of budgeting and investing were made interactive and fun throughout the day. A particular highlight was an auction activity that helped students learn about the impact of inflation, a popular topic. Lunch in the BCI team room was an opportunity for students to meet informally with staff members to learn more about their roles and possible careers in finance.

Senior members of the BCI team gave their time to meet with the students. Both Gordon J. Fyfe, Chief Executive Officer/Chief Investment Officer, and Daniel Garant, Executive Vice President & Global Head, Public Markets, provided their insights and took part in activities during the day.

Zach Walker, one of the teachers accompanying the students, felt that the day had an enormous impact on the students. He said, “The most important thing for me is to hear that the kids had fun and that’s all I heard in the hallways when we got back. It was a truly unique experience for them in an authentic setting and I think that made a world of difference.”

“We thank the BCI team for hosting this experience,” said Sheila Biggers, President and CEO of JA British Columbia. “This day will be remembered by students as they think about their futures!”

Learn more about JA programs at jabc.org/programs