CPA Canada launches financial literacy webinar series for women

CPA Canada has launched a financial literacy webinar series which is designed to improve women’s personal financial literacy and is aimed at all ages.

The new program will be delivered in six stand-alone online sessions presented via webinar by chartered professional accountants.

Sponsored by Canada Life, the six stand-alone sessions will cover ‘building a money mindset’, investing, retirement and estate planning, planning for parental leave, and preparing finances for separation or divorce.

Doretta Thompson, leader of CPA Canada’s financial literacy series, said: “Women are the cornerstone of improving a family’s financial situation. Research has shown the difference it makes to families when women are empowered to participate in their family’s financial decisions.

“This program equips participants with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions about their financial future.”

According to Canada Life, international research has shown that improving financial literacy in women can improve a household’s overall financial situation.

The program aims to provide women with financial knowledge, as well as confidence, and hopes to remedy the financial literacy gender gap. The announcement cited research by the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Centre that found knowledge made up two-thirds of the gap, while confidence accounted for the final third.

Candre See-Toh, assistant vice president of capital management at Canada Life, added: “At Canada Life, we know that financial literacy is essential to creating stronger communities.

“That’s why we’re proud to support CPA Canada’s literacy program – because they bring together experts who will help make a positive impact in the financial wellness journey of many women. We’re honored to provide support for the tools that empower Canadians’ financial futures.”

The sessions will be offered in both English and French from March 8 to mid-June. In the fall, they will become part of CPA Canada’s standard volunteer program and will be available upon request.

Last year, Morgan Stanley’s Institute for Inclusion (IFI) launched an initiative aimed at advancing equity in education and career pathways, collaborating with organizations to support high school and college students to achieve stronger career and financial outcomes.