50 MAIA Money Changers
Money is changing.
It is becoming more important. It is getting more complicated.
The financial system is also reaching more and more people, which should be positive, but too often it is reaching them in ways they don’t understand. This leads to confusion, to debt, to scams and inequality.
This has to change. We need “Money Changers”.
At the Money Awareness and Inclusion Awards, we track the money changes happening all over the world. they could be in schools, in government, in (social) media, in academia: we like knowing who is making the most difference in their arena.
And so we decided that at the end of such a tumultuous year, and before we open the maiawards.org website for submissions to the 2025 MAIAs, it would be an ideal time to compile a list of “MAIA Money Changers”. They may be past MAIA winners, but they may also never have heard of the MAIAs (you never know!), but these are the people we want to thank, who we want to acknowledge and promote for making the most positive difference to money this year.
These are the ‘MAIA Money Changers’
Adele Atkinson
Professor of Practice in Financial Literacy and Wellbeing University of Birmingham
Professor Adele Atkinson, a Professor of Practice in Financial Literacy and Wellbeing at CHASM (Centre on Household Assets and Savings Management) at the University of Birmingham, has been a global leader in financial literacy, inclusion, and education for over 15 years.
Her work at the OECD’s International Network on Financial Education (INFE) shaped key initiatives, including the 2020 OECD/INFE Survey of Financial Literacy, benchmarking financial capability in 26 countries. She has guided national strategies in Indonesia and South Africa, focusing on empowering women, youth, and marginalized communities. Her ongoing research continues to influence policies and practices worldwide, driving transformative change in financial empowerment and education.
Akef Aqrabawi
President & CEO of Middle East/North Africa for Junior Achievement Worldwide, INJAZ Al-Arab
Akef Aqrabawi, President and CEO of INJAZ Al-Arab, has been a driving force in advancing financial literacy and economic inclusion across the MENA region. Leading the organization as part of the Junior Achievement Worldwide network, he has overseen programs that have empowered over six million young people in 13 countries with essential financial and entrepreneurial skills.
His initiatives bridge education and employment, with a focus on digital tools and sustainability to prepare youth for the future. With a career dedicated to fostering self-reliance and entrepreneurship, Akef’s work continues to create lasting impact across underserved communities and inspire regional transformation.
Andrea Ceccherini
President of the Osservatorio Permanente Giovani-Editori
Andrea Ceccherini, President of the Osservatorio Permanente Giovani-Editori in Italy, has been a visionary advocate for youth education and financial literacy. Through his leadership, the organization has launched initiatives like “Young Factor,” a groundbreaking program aimed at improving financial literacy among high school students across Europe.
His work emphasizes empowering young people with critical thinking skills and economic knowledge to navigate an increasingly complex world. Andrea’s dedication to fostering informed, financially capable citizens has had a profound impact on education systems and communities, creating a legacy of empowerment and inclusion that extends beyond Italy to inspire change across Europe.
Dr. Angela C. Lyons
Director of the Center for Economic and Financial Education
Dr. Angela C. Lyons, Professor at the University of Illinois and Director of the Center for Economic and Financial Education, is a global authority on financial literacy and inclusion. Her work spans over 40 countries, focusing on economic resilience, digital literacy, fintech, and the empowerment of vulnerable populations. In 2021, she developed a multidimensional framework for defining and measuring digital financial literacy, emphasizing its critical role in financial behaviors and resilience.
As a T20 member under multiple G20 presidencies, she provides policy recommendations to promote sustainable development. She also chairs the Data Taskforce for the Fintech Diversity Radar, advancing gender diversity in the digital economy. Her impactful research, including partnerships with UNHCR and UNICEF to address Syrian refugees’ economic challenges, continues to drive global change and inform policy.
Anil Lamba
Author of Romancing the Balance Sheet
Anil Lamba, renowned author and a leading financial literacy advocate in India, has been instrumental in making finance accessible to businesses and individuals alike. Through his workshops, writings, and online courses, he has demystified financial management for thousands across India and globally, empowering entrepreneurs, professionals, and students.
His innovative teaching methods bridge financial literacy gaps, focusing on practical understanding and application. Anil’s ongoing efforts to promote financial education at grassroots levels and within corporate environments continue to inspire financial prudence and long-term economic stability across diverse communities. His contributions leave a lasting global impact.
Professor Annamaria Lusardi
Academic, Founder of GFLEC
Professor Annamaria Lusardi, Founder and Academic Director of the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center (GFLEC) and Senior Fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR), is a global authority on financial literacy and inclusion. Her groundbreaking research, including the widely recognized “Big Three” financial literacy questions, has shaped policy and education initiatives worldwide.
She has advised governments, international organizations, and financial institutions, promoting effective strategies to enhance financial capability. Through her roles at GFLEC and SIEPR, she continues to pioneer innovative solutions, empowering individuals across generations and geographies to achieve financial resilience and informed economic decision-making.
Caroline Stewart
CEO of Ecstra Foundation
Caroline Stewart, CEO of Ecstra Foundation in Australia, is a dedicated advocate for improving financial literacy and inclusion. Under her leadership, Ecstra has spearheaded programs that equip Australians with the skills and confidence to make informed financial decisions, focusing on vulnerable and underserved communities. Caroline has championed initiatives that address critical issues such as financial abuse, youth education, and digital inclusion, fostering resilience in an increasingly complex financial landscape.
Her work emphasizes collaboration with community organizations and policymakers to deliver long-term, impactful solutions. Caroline’s vision and commitment continue to drive meaningful change, empowering individuals and strengthening financial well-being across Australia.
Chetna Gala Sinha
Founder of Mann Deshi Mahila Bank
Chetna Gala Sinha, Founder of Mann Deshi Mahila Bank and Mann Deshi Foundation in India, has been a transformative force in financial literacy and inclusion, particularly for rural women. Through her pioneering efforts, Mann Deshi has empowered over one million women with access to financial services, entrepreneurship training, and financial literacy programs, enabling them to achieve economic independence.
Her initiatives, such as mobile business schools and tailored financial products, address the unique challenges faced by underserved communities. Chetna’s lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for marginalized women continues to inspire systemic change and advance financial empowerment on a global scale.
Dasha Kennedy
The Broke Black Girl
Dasha Kennedy, founder of The Broke Black Girl, has significantly advanced financial literacy among women of colour in the United States through community empowerment and education. Her platform has garnered a massive following, including over 330,000 Instagram followers offering practical advice on budgeting, debt management, and financial resilience.
Dasha’s candid and relatable approach addresses the unique financial challenges faced by women of colour, fostering a supportive environment for shared learning. Her impactful work continues to inspire lasting change, promoting financial inclusion and empowerment across underserved communities.
David Peng
Teacher, Stuyvesant High School, New York City
David Peng, a mathematics teacher at Stuyvesant High School in New York City, recognized a critical gap in practical financial education among students. In response, he designed and launched the school’s first personal finance course during the 2021-2022 academic year. The curriculum covers essential topics such as budgeting, taxes, student loans, and investing, equipping students with vital skills for financial independence.
The course’s popularity led to its expansion from a one-semester elective to a full-year offering, with high demand resulting in waitlists and students auditing sessions. Peng’s initiative has garnered media attention and inspired discussions on mandating financial literacy education across New York State, highlighting the broader impact of his work in preparing students for real-world financial challenges.
David Vélez
Founder and CEO of Nubank
David Vélez, Founder and CEO of Nubank, has revolutionized financial inclusion in Brazil and across Latin America by providing accessible, transparent, and user-friendly digital banking solutions. Under his leadership, Nubank has empowered millions of unbanked and underserved individuals to access financial services, breaking down barriers to economic participation.
Committed to financial education, Nubank integrates tools and resources to help users make informed financial decisions. Vélez’s innovative approach has not only transformed banking in the region but also inspired a global shift toward more inclusive financial systems. His work continues to drive economic empowerment and reduce inequality across communities.
Elaine King
Founder of Family and Money Matters
Elaine King, a Peruvian-born financial planner and founder of Family and Money Matters, has significantly advanced financial literacy among Latin American communities. Recognized as the 10th Most Influential Financial Advisor in Investopedia’s 2023 list, she has authored five books on personal finance and family business, providing accessible guidance to Spanish-speaking audiences.
Elaine’s innovative programs and workshops empower families to achieve financial well-being, emphasizing the importance of financial education in fostering economic resilience. Her dedication to serving Latin American communities continues to inspire responsible wealth management and financial inclusion.
Fatima-Zahra Aziz
Fondation Marocaine pour l’Éducation Financière
Fatima-Zahra Aziz, Executive Director of the Fondation Marocaine pour l’Éducation Financière (FMEF), has been instrumental in advancing financial literacy and inclusion in Morocco. Under her leadership, FMEF has launched significant initiatives, such as integrating financial education into national school curricula and organizing the annual Global Money Week, which in 2024 engaged over 750,000 young participants.
These efforts have substantially increased financial awareness among youth and underserved communities, promoting economic empowerment and resilience. FMEF’s Entrepreneurial Education project was recognized as the runner-up for Best Project in a Developing Economy at the MAIA Awards in 2024.
Haley Kowalewski
Femme Financial Coaching
Haley Kowalewski, founder of Femme Financial Coaching, has become a leading advocate for women’s financial literacy in the United States. Since launching Femme Financial in 2020, she has built a community of over 300,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, providing accessible education on budgeting, saving, and investing.
Haley’s mission is to empower women to achieve financial independence and bridge the gender wealth gap. Her engaging content and personalized coaching have enabled thousands of women to take control of their financial futures, fostering long-term economic resilience and inclusion.
Haley Sacks
“Mrs. Dow Jones”
Haley Sacks, known as Mrs. Dow Jones, is a prominent financial literacy advocate who has redefined financial education for younger generations. Through her platform, Finance Is Cool, she combines humor and pop culture to make financial concepts accessible and engaging. Her innovative approach has attracted over 1.4 million followers across social media platforms.
Recognized for her influence, Haley was named to Fortune’s 40 Under 40 list in 2020 and Money.com’s 2023 Changemakers. Her work has been featured in major media outlets, including The New York Times, Yahoo Finance, and Forbes, highlighting her impact on financial literacy and inclusion. By demystifying finance, Haley empowers a global audience to achieve financial independence and resilience.
Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed
Associate Fellow at Chatham House
Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed, Vice President for Research at The Arab Institute for Women’s Empowerment in Saudi Arabia and Associate Fellow at Chatham House, is a leading advocate for financial literacy and economic inclusion, particularly for women in the Arab world. She co-hosts The TWENTY30, a podcast exploring Saudi Arabia’s social and economic transformations, amplifying discussions on women’s empowerment and financial education.
Her initiatives focus on dismantling systemic barriers and equipping women with the skills and knowledge necessary for financial independence. Dr. Almoaibed’s multifaceted efforts continue to inspire long-term social and economic transformation, fostering equity and opportunity across the region.
He Ruiming
Co-creator of The Woke Salaryman
He Ruiming, Co-founder of The Woke Salaryman in Singapore, has redefined financial literacy for younger generations through relatable, accessible, and visually engaging content. His work demystifies complex financial concepts, empowering readers to take control of their financial futures.
With a focus on topics like saving, investing, and career growth, The Woke Salaryman has reached millions across Asia, sparking important conversations about financial well-being. By blending humor and practical advice, Ruiming has created a platform that transcends cultural and economic barriers, fostering financial inclusion and equipping individuals with tools to build long-term financial resilience and independence.
Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni
Public Policy and Digital Economy Adviser
Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, Executive Director of Tech Herfrica, is a leading advocate for financial literacy, inclusion, and digital empowerment in Nigeria. At Tech Herfrica, she champions initiatives to bridge the gender gap in technology, equipping women with essential digital and financial skills. In her role at The New Institute, she explores the impact of digital support on business growth and sustainability within the OKOBI framework, which emphasizes shared entrepreneurship and collective prosperity. Her work focuses on enhancing access to financial services and digital literacy for underserved communities, fostering inclusive growth and inspiring long-term social and economic transformation.
Jeroo Billimoria
Schwab and Ashoka Fellow
Jeroo Billimoria, a social entrepreneur based in the Netherlands, is a globally recognized leader in financial literacy and inclusion. As the founder of Aflatoun International, she has empowered millions of children and young people in over 100 countries with social and financial education, equipping them with life skills to break the cycle of poverty.
A Schwab and Ashoka Fellow, she has also founded impactful initiatives like Child & Youth Finance International, promoting financial inclusion for youth globally. Jeroo’s innovative, scalable programs continue to create lasting change, fostering financial empowerment and resilience for vulnerable populations across generations and geographies.
John Hope Bryant
Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE
John Hope Bryant, founder and CEO of Operation HOPE, has intensified efforts to promote financial literacy and inclusion across the United States. In 2023, the organization’s “1 Million Black Businesses” (1MBB) initiative, launched in partnership with Shopify, supported over 88,000 new Black-owned businesses in its first quarter alone, aiming to establish one million such enterprises by 2030.
Additionally, Bryant was appointed National Vice Chair of No Labels, a bipartisan movement addressing critical national challenges. Through initiatives like HOPE Inside and his tireless advocacy, Bryant continues to foster economic empowerment, bridge the racial wealth gap, and create generational opportunities.
Dr. Josephine Kass-Hanna
Assistant Professor at IESEG School of Management in France
Dr. Josephine Kass-Hanna, Assistant Professor at IESEG School of Management in France, is a prominent advocate for financial literacy and inclusion, with a focus on empowering underserved communities in Lebanon and beyond. Her research explores the intersection of financial education, behavioral economics, and digital inclusion, providing actionable insights for policymakers and educators.
She has been instrumental in initiatives aimed at improving financial capability among youth and marginalized groups, leveraging innovative strategies to bridge knowledge gaps. Dr. Kass-Hanna’s dedication to fostering financial empowerment and her impactful work continue to inspire long-term economic resilience and inclusion in diverse communities.
Karen Holland
Teacher, Founder of Gifting Sense
Karen Holland, a Canadian educator and founder of Gifting Sense, has created a unique money education program that helps young people develop thoughtful spending habits and financial decision-making skills. Her innovative approach empowers children to evaluate the true value of their purchases through the “DIMS” (Does it make Sense?) tool, fostering lifelong financial literacy. Recognized by the MAIAs for three consecutive years, her work has gained international acclaim for its impact and accessibility.
Karen’s dedication to equipping the next generation with practical financial skills continues to drive meaningful change, inspiring responsible money management and economic resilience in communities worldwide.
Leon Ward
Chief Executive Officer at MyBnk
Leon Ward, Chief Executive Officer at MyBnk, has been instrumental in delivering impactful financial education programs to young people, particularly those in vulnerable circumstances. MyBnk’s groundbreaking project, The Money House, which prepares young people transitioning from care or social housing for independent living, was recognized by the MAIAs in 2024 for its innovative and transformative approach to financial education.
Leon also presented to the UK Government, advocating for the integration of financial education into primary schools. His efforts continue to drive meaningful change, equipping young people with the skills needed for long-term financial resilience and success.
Leora Klapper
Lead Economist, World Bank
Leora Klapper, Lead Economist with the Finance and Private Sector Research Team at the World Bank’s Development Research Group, is a global leader in financial inclusion and literacy. She is the founder of the Global Findex Database, which measures how adults worldwide save, borrow, make payments, and manage financial risk, shaping global financial policies.
As Director of the 2022 World Development Report Finance for an Equitable Recovery, she highlighted financial risks tied to corporate, financial institution, and government debt. Her recent research focuses on fintech and digital financial services, particularly their development impacts on women, fostering resilience and inclusion.
Ligwina Hananto
Financial Trainer and Stand-up Comedian
Ligwina Hananto, founder of QM Financial, has built a strong presence in the Indonesian financial literacy space, reaching hundreds of thousands through her social media platforms, where she shares financial tips, strategies, and insights. With a robust following on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, she continues to engage a broad audience, particularly those seeking to improve their personal finances.
Recently, Ligwina has added stand-up comedy to her repertoire, blending humor with financial education. This unique approach makes her content even more accessible, breaking down complex financial topics in an entertaining way.
Louise Hill
Co-founder of GoHenry
Louise Hill, Co-founder and COO of GoHenry, has significantly advanced financial literacy among children and teenagers in the United Kingdom. Through GoHenry’s prepaid debit card and financial education app, she has empowered over two million young users to develop essential money management skills.
In 2024, Hill presented evidence to the UK Parliament’s Education Select Committee, advocating for compulsory financial education from primary school age. She also spearheaded the #makemoneycount petition, which garnered over 12,500 signatures, urging the government to prioritize practical money skills in the national curriculum. GoHenry’s research highlights that 84% of 6-18-year-olds desire more financial education in schools. Hill’s dedication continues to inspire systemic change, fostering financial capability and inclusion for future generations.
Martha Sazon
President and CEO of GCash
Martha Sazon, President and CEO of GCash, has been at the forefront of financial inclusion and literacy in the Philippines. Under her leadership, GCash has become the nation’s leading mobile wallet, providing millions of Filipinos with access to digital financial services, from savings and credit to insurance and investments.
Committed to empowering underserved communities, she has driven initiatives like GCash’s financial literacy programs, which educate users on responsible money management and digital financial tools. Martha’s vision and dedication continue to bridge the gap in financial access, fostering economic empowerment and resilience for individuals and businesses across the Philippines.
Melisa Mumcu
Secretary General of the Financial Literacy and Inclusion Association
Melisa Mumcu, Secretary General of the Financial Literacy and Inclusion Association (FODER) in Türkiye, has been a driving force in advancing financial literacy and inclusion nationwide. She has spearheaded impactful initiatives such as FinKurs, a digital training program that equips individuals with essential financial knowledge and skills, and the Money Box Project, which promotes savings habits among children.
With a focus on low- and middle-income individuals, her work integrates behavioral economics to create practical, accessible solutions. Melisa’s leadership continues to foster financial empowerment, building long-term resilience and supporting economic inclusion across diverse communities in Türkiye.
Mike Regnier
Chief Executive Officer at Santander UK
Mike Regnier, Chief Executive Officer at Santander UK, has been a strong advocate for financial literacy and inclusion. Under his leadership, Santander UK has implemented programs to enhance financial education, including a partnership with Twinkl to integrate financial literacy into primary school curricula, providing free resources for educators.
He has also championed initiatives supporting young people, entrepreneurs, and underserved communities through the Santander Foundation’s Digital & Financial Empowerment Fund. Mike’s commitment to fostering financial capability extends to promoting sustainable banking solutions that empower individuals and businesses. His dedication continues to drive impactful change, promoting financial resilience across the UK.
Monika Halan
Author, Investor Protection, SEBI
Monika Halan, Chair of the SEBI Advisory Committee for Investor Protection and Education Fund (IPEF) in India, is a leading voice in financial literacy and consumer empowerment. As the author of bestselling books such as Let’s Talk Money, Let’s Talk Mutual Funds, and Let’s Talk Legacy, she has demystified personal finance for millions of readers, providing practical tools for informed financial decisions.
Monika’s work combines policy advocacy, financial education, and consumer rights, fostering greater transparency and trust in financial markets. Her ongoing efforts continue to empower individuals, promote financial inclusion, and drive long-term economic resilience in India and beyond.
Oluwatosin Olaseinde
MoneyAfrica
Oluwatosin Olaseinde, Founder of MoneyAfrica and Ladda, is a trailblazer in financial literacy and inclusion in Nigeria. Her work focuses on democratizing access to financial education and retail investments, empowering individuals to make informed decisions. Through MoneyAfrica, she delivers practical tools and resources to enhance financial literacy, while Ladda simplifies investment opportunities for everyday Nigerians. Her innovative approach has reached thousands, fostering a culture of savings, wealth-building, and financial independence.
Oluwatosin’s dedication to breaking down barriers and creating accessible financial solutions continues to inspire long-term economic empowerment and resilience across diverse communities in Nigeria and beyond.
Patricia Suárez
ASUFIN (Association of Financial Users)
Patricia Suárez, Founder, President, and CEO of ASUFIN, is a tireless advocate for financial literacy, consumer protection, and green finance. Known as “Wonder Woman” for her relentless fight against bank abuses, she has empowered countless individuals through education and legal support, ensuring transparency and fairness in financial practices.
Patricia’s work spans innovative fintech solutions and sustainability initiatives, addressing critical challenges in modern finance. Her leadership at ASUFIN continues to drive systemic change, promoting financial inclusion, education, and justice, while inspiring individuals to take control of their financial futures responsibly and sustainably.
Patrick Jenkins
Financial Times
Patrick Jenkins, Deputy Editor at the Financial Times (FT) and Founder and Chair of FT Financial Literacy and Inclusion Campaign (FT FLIC), spearheaded the advocacy that led to the FT launching its first-ever charity in its 150-year history.
FT FLIC, which focuses on equipping underserved communities and young people with financial education, has collaborated with organizations such as Magic Breakfast to address child poverty and financial illiteracy in the UK. In 2024, FT FLIC won a MAIA Award for Best School Age Project for its all-school financial literacy curriculum at the City of London Academy.
Peter Kwadwo Asare Nyarko
Center for Financial Literacy Education Africa (CFLE Africa)
Peter Kwadwo Asare Nyarko is Executive Director of CFLE Africa, Social Entrepreneur and Award-Winning Financial Literacy Advocate. Under his leadership, CFLE Africa develops and promotes financial literacy skills, particularly among young Africans and women, fostering sustainable communities of financial literacy and inclusion.
He also leads PKAN Capital Consulting, specializing in personal and group financial planning and business development. Named Ghana’s Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2022 and listed among Top 25 Africans Changing the Face of Education in 2023, Peter’s impactful work continues to inspire transformative change across Africa.
Dr. Pushpa Wood
Director of the Westpac Massey Fin-Ed Centre
Dr. Pushpa Wood, Director of the Westpac Massey Fin-Ed Centre at Massey University, is a leading advocate for financial literacy and education. Her extensive work has focused on improving financial capability among diverse populations, particularly vulnerable communities such as migrants, women, and youth.
Dr. Wood has developed evidence-based programs and resources tailored to address real-world challenges, fostering long-term financial resilience. She actively collaborates with policymakers, educators, and community organizations to embed financial literacy into educational systems and public initiatives. Her enduring commitment continues to inspire systemic change, empowering individuals and strengthening financial well-being across New Zealand and beyond.
Dr. Raphael Sofoluke
Founder of the UK Black Business Show
Dr. Raphael Sofoluke, Founder and CEO of the UK Black Business Show, has been a transformative advocate for financial literacy, inclusion, and economic empowerment within the Black community in the UK. Through his work, he has created a platform that celebrates Black excellence, provides entrepreneurial education, and equips business leaders with tools for financial success.
His events and initiatives address systemic barriers, fostering opportunities for growth and collaboration. Dr. Sofoluke’s dedication to uplifting underrepresented communities has had a lasting impact, empowering individuals to build sustainable businesses and contributing to a more inclusive and equitable economic landscape.
Samit Ghosh
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank
Samit Ghosh, Founder and former CEO of Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, has been a pioneering force in advancing financial inclusion for underserved communities. In addition to transforming microfinance through Ujjivan, he co-founded the Parinaam Foundation, which focuses on improving financial literacy and access for women and low-income households.
The foundation’s innovative programs, such as the Diksha Financial Literacy Program, have empowered thousands with critical financial skills. Samit’s combined efforts at Ujjivan and Parinaam have transformed millions of lives, fostering economic resilience and breaking cycles of poverty. His visionary approach continues to inspire inclusive growth and financial empowerment in India.
Sarah Porretta
Young Enterprise UK, Money and Pensions Service
Sarah Porretta, CEO of Young Enterprise UK, has been a driving force in financial literacy and education. Formerly a Director at the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) and a key leader at Fair4All Finance, she played a pivotal role in developing the UK Strategy for Financial Wellbeing, which set ten-year goals to improve financial literacy and resilience nationwide.
At MaPS, she led initiatives to integrate financial education into school curricula, aiming to reach two million additional children by 2030. Now at Young Enterprise UK, Sarah continues to empower young people with essential financial and entrepreneurial skills, fostering lifelong resilience and economic independence.
Professor Scott Galloway
Professor NYU Stern, Podcaster, Author
Professor Scott Galloway, a professor of marketing at NYU Stern School of Business, is a renowned entrepreneur, academic, author, and podcaster. His recent bestseller, The Algebra of Wealth, provides practical advice on building wealth, while his podcast, Prof G Markets, covers business, markets, and economic trends.
Scott also launched Section, an alternative to expensive business schools, offering accessible education on entrepreneurship and business strategy. His work has empowered millions, democratizing financial and business education, and providing valuable resources for those seeking financial success outside traditional systems.
Serey Chea
National Bank Governor
Serey Chea, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia and Board Director of the Alliance for Financial Inclusion, has been a transformative leader in advancing financial inclusion and education. Under her guidance, the central bank launched Bakong, a blockchain-based digital payment system, providing millions with access to affordable financial services.
Serey has championed financial literacy initiatives, empowering underserved communities, particularly women and rural populations, to achieve economic independence. Her innovative policies and global collaborations continue to foster financial resilience and inclusion, positioning Cambodia as a model for leveraging technology to address financial inequality.
Simran Kaur
Girls That Invest
Simran Kaur, founder of Girls That Invest, is a globally recognized advocate for financial literacy and inclusion, particularly for women and minorities. Co-host of the stock market podcast Girls That Invest, which has ranked among the top business podcasts in the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, she has built a thriving community of over 500,000 followers on Instagram.
Her bestselling book and relatable content have demystified investing for underrepresented groups, empowering tens of thousands. Featured in Forbes, VOGUE, TEDx, and BBC, she also founded The Indian Feminist, a platform with 300,000 members amplifying South Asian voices.
Sofía Macías
Author, Pequeño Cerdo Capitalista
Sofía Macías, author of the bestselling Pequeño Cerdo Capitalista series, continues to advance financial literacy in Latin America. Her recent publication, Agenda Book: Little Capitalist Pig. Financial Challenges 2025, offers readers practical financial challenges to tackle in the upcoming year.
Through workshops and media engagements, she emphasizes the importance of investing in personal projects despite financial risks, encouraging individuals to build solid financial habits and achieve financial freedom. Sofía’s work primarily targets Spanish-speaking audiences, making complex financial concepts accessible and fostering economic resilience across diverse communities.
Te Kahukura Boynton
Māori Millionaire
Te Kahukura Boynton, founder and director of Māori Millionaire, is a 20-year-old entrepreneur dedicated to enhancing financial literacy among rangatahi Māori in New Zealand. Her platform, which has garnered over 30,000 followers, offers culturally relevant financial education through podcasts, workshops, and online resources, empowering Māori youth to achieve financial independence. In 2022, she was recognized in the Y25 list, celebrating New Zealand’s trailblazers and changemakers.
Te Kahukura’s innovative approach integrates traditional Māori values with modern financial strategies, fostering economic resilience and bridging wealth gaps within her community.
Tiffany Aliche
“The Budgetnista”
Tiffany Aliche, known as The Budgetnista, is a pioneering advocate for financial literacy in the United States. Through her Live Richer Movement, she has empowered over two million women worldwide to take control of their finances. In 2019, she collaborated with Assemblywoman Angela V. McKnight to draft and advocate for New Jersey’s A1414 law, known as “The Budgetnista Law,” which mandates financial literacy education in all middle schools.
In 2022, Tiffany co-starred in the Netflix documentary Get Smart with Money, expanding her mission to make financial education accessible. Her bestselling book, Get Good with Money, continues to inspire financial independence and resilience.
Tim Ranzetta
Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF)
Tim Ranzetta, co-founder of NGPF, has been a leading force in making personal finance education mandatory in U.S. schools. Over the past four years, his advocacy has helped increase the number of states requiring personal finance courses from six to 26, ensuring that 64% of high school students now receive essential financial education.
Through NGPF, Tim has provided free resources to over 70,000 educators and launched initiatives like the Gold Standard Challenge to incentivize schools to adopt personal finance as a graduation requirement. His work continues to empower millions of students with the knowledge they will need to live financially secure and independent lives.
Tony Thurmond
California State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Tony Thurmond has been a steadfast advocate for integrating personal finance education into California’s school system. Under his leadership, the California Department of Education prioritized efforts to mandate financial literacy as a high school graduation requirement.
In June 2024, these efforts culminated in the passage of Assembly Bill 2927, mandating a one-semester personal finance course for high school students. California, the most populous U.S. state with approximately 39 million residents, sees over 400,000 high school graduates annually. This legislation ensures that a significant number of students gain essential financial skills, such as budgeting, saving, and investing, better preparing them for economic independence. Thurmond’s dedication to fostering equitable access to practical education continues to pave the way for a financially empowered generation in California and beyond.
Tori Dunlap
Author, Feminist Podcaster
Tori Dunlap, founder of Her First $100K, is a leading advocate for financial feminism, empowering women to achieve financial independence. Through her platform, Tori has reached millions via social media, podcasts, and workshops, breaking down barriers to financial literacy with accessible and actionable advice on saving, investing, and negotiating.
Her bestselling book, Financial Feminist, and podcast of the same name have amplified her mission to close the gender wealth gap. Tori’s dedication to fostering financial empowerment and education continues to inspire women worldwide, equipping them with the tools to build generational wealth and advocate for economic equality.
Tram Anh Nguyen
Co-founder of CFTE
Tram Anh Nguyen is the co-founder of the Centre for Finance, Technology and Entrepreneurship (CFTE), established in 2017 to bridge the skills gap in financial services and fintech through education at scale. She serves as an Entrepreneurship Expert at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, and is an Industry Fellow at Imperial College.
Tram Anh has co-authored several publications, including The Fintech Job Report: Technology is Eating Finance and New Skills in Financial Services. Her work focuses on lifelong learning and inclusivity, collaborating with governments, regulators, and experts to advance financial education in the digital era.
Veronica Frisancho Robles
Chief Economist at CAF – Banco de Desarrollo de América Latina
Veronica Frisancho Robles, Chief Economist at CAF, has been instrumental in advancing financial inclusion across Latin America. In addition to her work at CAF, Veronica is a respected academic whose research includes work on the spillover effects of financial education in schools, for which she won a MAIA for Best Academic Paper.
Her contributions to policy development have enhanced access to financial services, particularly for underserved populations. Veronica’s work promotes financial literacy, economic empowerment, and sustainable growth, creating long-term pathways for financial independence and resilience throughout the region.
Vivian Tu
Your Rich BFF
Vivian Tu, known as Your Rich BFF, is a leading advocate for financial literacy, particularly among younger audiences. Through her platform, she has built a community of over 6 million individuals worldwide, providing accessible financial education on topics such as budgeting, investing, and student loans.
Her TikTok account alone boasts 2.6 million followers, with 31 million likes, reflecting her widespread influence. In 2023, Vivian launched the podcast Networth & Chill, which was nominated for Best Business + Finance podcast at the 2024 iHeart Podcast Awards at SXSW. She also authored the bestselling book Rich AF: The Winning Money Mindset that Will Change Your Life, further solidifying her role as a prominent financial educator.
The MAIA Money Changers list celebrates individuals and organizations who have made significant strides in reshaping the landscape of financial literacy and inclusion. The list is compiled with the goal of recognizing those who are not only challenging conventional views on money and finance but also creating tangible change that empowers individuals and communities worldwide.
By highlighting these changemakers, we aim to inspire further innovation, collaboration, and growth within the field, fostering a future where financial knowledge is accessible to all. The Money Changers are selected by the MAIAs team based on their leadership, impact, and dedication to improving financial education, transforming attitudes, and dismantling barriers to financial empowerment.
The MAIA Money Changers does not replace the Money Awareness and Inclusion Awards, which are submissions-based and judged by an esteemed external panel. Submissions will open on enter.maiawards.org on January 1.