Financial Inclusion Week: 1 Kina a Day

This week marks Financial Inclusion Week, a time dedicated to helping people around the world gain better access to financial services and education. One person making a real difference in this area is Christopher Saisagu

When Chris joined the Westpac Sustainability Team he was driven by a desire to make a difference.?Fast forward to 2024, and he has been instrumental in delivering Westpac's Financial Literacy program to over 3,000 individuals across Papua New Guinea (PNG). This journey not only reshaped his understanding of financial management but also inspired countless others to take control of their financial futures.

?The Financial Literacy program at Westpac has seen significant growth in recent years, focusing on helping businesses and families to manage their money effectively. As Chris engaged with participants, he was moved by their stories—tales of struggle and triumph that highlighted the program’s profound impact.

?“Seeing the aspirational stories of past participants has been incredibly inspiring,” Chris shared. “Many have transformed their lives using the skills they learned through our program.”

?To ensure the program resonated authentically, Chris took a unique step – he decided to undergo the program himself.?

?“I wanted to deliver it in the most engaging way possible, and that meant living it,” he explained.?

?By implementing budgeting and planning strategies in his own life, Chris developed the innovative ‘1 Kina a Day’ concept.?

?“By saving just 1 Kina a day, I was able to fund a trip to Australia to visit family and catch the NRL Magic Round. It’s a simple idea, but it shows how small changes can lead to significant outcomes.”?

Chris now shares his story with every group he delivers the financial literacy program to.

?Chris' journey is an example of practicing what we preach. Through his dedication and personal experiences, he has become a leading example of what can be achieved through consistency and shows that financial literacy can empower individuals to pursue their dreams.?

?Westpac’s commitment to helping individuals and communities in PNG extends beyond personal finance, recently, the bank launched a new module tailored specifically for small businesses to help adopt sustainable practices and drive positive impacts on economic and community development.