SimplyFI: Transforming Financial Education Through Community Empowerment
SimplyFI, a free evidence-based investing community founded by Sébastien Aguilar, has been honoured as the runner-up for the Best Influencer award at the Money Awareness and Inclusion Awards (MAIA) 2024. This dynamic initiative has made a significant impact by providing comprehensive financial education and fostering a supportive community for savers and investors in the United Arab Emirates and beyond.
“Sébastien Aguilar and the SimplyFI team have created a remarkable platform that empowers individuals with the knowledge and confidence to manage their finances effectively,” says Trudi Harris, co-founder of the MAIAs. “Their dedication to providing accessible and unbiased financial education is the kind of thing we want to see repeated all over the world.”
Target Community: Savers and Investors in the Middle East
SimplyFI primarily targets individuals in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE, who are seeking to gain control over their finances without incurring the high fees typically charged by local financial advisers. The community is inclusive and caters to anyone interested in learning about personal finance and evidence-based investing, regardless of their background or financial literacy level.
“Our mission is to provide free and independent financial education to everyone,” explains Sébastien Aguilar. “We aim to empower people to make informed financial decisions and achieve long-term financial security.”
Making Money Accessible and Beneficial
SimplyFI stands out for its commitment to making financial education accessible to all. The platform offers a comprehensive range of resources, including a free Getting Started Guide, a supportive online community, and free events. These resources cover essential topics such as savings, investing, and personal finance management, helping individuals navigate the often complex world of finance.
“Financial literacy is crucial for financial well-being,” says Aguilar. “Our goal is to provide practical, evidence-based information that people can use to improve their financial lives.”
The community’s impact is profound, as it helps members save substantial amounts of money by avoiding costly and ineffective financial products. The typical investment plan in the region often carries hidden fees of 4-6%, which can significantly erode returns. SimplyFI educates its members on low-cost, broadly diversified index funds, enabling them to build wealth more efficiently.
Innovation and Impact
SimplyFI is innovative in its approach to financial education. The community leverages the power of the internet and social media to reach a wide audience, offering support and resources through its Facebook group and website. The platform is managed by a team of dedicated volunteers who provide daily support, moderate the forum, and organise events, ensuring that the community remains active and engaged.
“Our unique value lies in our independence and the quality of our content,” Aguilar notes. “We provide 100% independent financial education without any financial interest, relying entirely on the goodwill and generosity of our volunteers.”
Since its inception in 2020, SimplyFI has grown significantly, now boasting over 33,000 members from multiple countries. The community’s growth is primarily driven by word of mouth, a testament to the value and effectiveness of the education provided. The free Getting Started Guide has been downloaded nearly 20,000 times and has received high praise for its clarity and practicality.
Testimonials: Real Stories of Change
The success of SimplyFI is best illustrated by the testimonials from its members. One community member shared, “SimplyFI has been a game-changer for me. The knowledge I’ve gained has helped me avoid costly mistakes and feel more confident about my financial future.”
Another member noted, “The community support and high-quality resources provided by SimplyFI have been invaluable. I’ve learned so much about investing and personal finance, and I’m now able to make better decisions for my family.”
These testimonials highlight the transformative impact of SimplyFI on individuals’ financial literacy and well-being.
Closing the Gender Gap
SimplyFI is also committed to addressing the gender gap in financial literacy. Despite the financial industry being male-dominated, the community boasts a membership that is 43% female. The platform encourages both men and women to engage in financial discussions and educate themselves, promoting gender equality in financial knowledge and empowerment.
“We believe that women are often better investors than men, and we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can learn and grow,” Aguilar explains.
Expanding Financial Literacy
Looking ahead, SimplyFI aims to expand its reach and impact by increasing its membership and developing additional resources. The team is exploring ways to establish a more sustainable structure, such as setting up a non-profit organisation to support their efforts.
“SimplyFI’s commitment to community building is making a significant difference in people’s lives,” concludes Michael Gilmore, co-founder of the MAIAs. “As the community continues to grow, it promises to create lasting positive change for savers and investors around the world..”