From Royalty Checks to Community Change: Zach Wilson's Financial Festival

In the heart of Bermuda, something profound is stirring the community. Zach Wilson, renowned for his unique blend of creative and entrepreneurial prowess, embarked on a mission to transform financial literacy into a movement. His brainchild, the Lumina Festival, recently illuminated Dockyard, offering attendees—ranging from students to retirees—a fresh perspective on managing money.

A Personal Journey

For Zach, the Lumina Festival was not merely an event but a deeply personal journey. Having spent years in the creative industries in the U.S., he found himself pondering the responsibility of managing his newfound royalties. It was this introspection, combined with a strong Bermudian heritage, that inspired him to address a significant gap in financial education.

The Birth of Lumina

The idea was conceived from Zach’s desire to create a transformative experience akin to Invest Fest, yet rooted in Bermudian culture. He dreamed of a platform where financial literacy was as engaging and inspiring as a music festival. With notable figures like Curtis Dickinson and Kimwana Eve, the festival featured workshops that were both enlightening and accessible.

Bridging the Gap

Zach’s efforts highlight a critical need in Bermuda: accessible financial education that resonates with its youth. A CNBC report suggesting that financial literacy courses can increase lifetime earnings by over $100,000 resonates with his vision. By meeting this need, Zach hopes to break barriers and offer new paths to success for young Bermudians who may otherwise feel disconnected from financial opportunities.

Community and Collaboration

Support from individuals like Eugene Dean illustrates the community’s rallying behind this cause. Dean acknowledges Zach’s focus on empowering the Black community, recognizing that financial education is a crucial area for growth. “He’s come back to bring a gift,” Dean comments, reinforcing the festival’s impact.

A Movement in the Making

The response to Lumina has been overwhelmingly positive, with nearly 500 attendees. As Zach confidently plans for next year’s event, the growing interest from financial institutions and community members indicates a hunger for knowledge. According to Royal Gazette | Bermuda, this festival could see a ripple effect, with more individuals equipped to handle financial challenges and seize new opportunities.

Conclusion

Zach Wilson is not only leveraging his connections but also using his unique experiences to give back to the land that shaped him. His Lumina Festival is more than an event; it’s a catalyst for change, empowering the next generation with the tools to dream bigger and aim higher. As the festival gears up for its next edition, the vision of making financial literacy a part of Bermuda’s cultural fabric continues to shine brightly.