by Heidi Petroff
On February 26, AWNY members and friends had a unique opportunity to attend a workshop on Financial Empowerment 101 presented by AWNY’s Chairperson and wealth management specialist Shannon Marshall. The Monash Room at the Australian Consulate-General quickly filled up, with a diverse group of women eager to get a few tips on improving their personal finances.
Guests sipped on wine and snacked on a plentiful array of finger food, whilst surrounded by the striking photos taken by Rick Smolan, former National Geographic photographer from his book Inside Tracks (a follow up to the film Tracks) which were on display at the Monash Room.
Shannon provided a comprehensive introduction to personal financial basics. Topics discussed included setting realistic financial goals, tips on budgeting and saving, investing and weighing up the benefits of renting versus buying. It was an interactive session, with a number of guests raising personal questions or concerns. Guests left feeling more confident about managing their personal finances and with a number of practical tips, including using apps like Mint to help track your spending, how to improve your personal credit scores and a greater appreciation for the importance of diversifying your investments.
Photo – Shannon Marshall presenting. photo credit: Belinda Jackson