As we close out Financial Literacy Month, we’re spotlighting a Stakeholder story that embodies innovation, empowerment, and a whole lot of youthful energy. Meet Zion,13 and Sariel, 11, the powerhouse co-founders of I Got Bank, a peer-led financial education company supported by their mother and business partner, Charmina.
What began in 2019 as a spark of curiosity after Sariel came home eager to start her own business has blossomed into a full-fledged, youth-led venture rooted in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and community impact.
A Business For Kids, By Kids
Their unique approach? Let kids teach kids. “Peer-led teaching was a no-brainer,” Zion explains. “We’re kids. We know how to make it fun.” From budgeting workshops to interactive workbooks and hands-on budget bag kits, their content is engaging, accessible, and tailor-made for young learners.
One memorable moment? A workshop attendee praised the experience for being “not some boring adults teaching them.” That energy has fueled I Got Bank’s growth and expanded its reach far beyond Atlanta.
The RICE Ripple Effect
Since joining the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, I Got Bank has taken its mission even further. “Our networking has grown, and we’ve learned how to better market and pitch our ideas thanks to RICE,” Sariel shares. “Being surrounded by other Stakeholders doing amazing things really inspires us.”
Charmina adds, “RICE doesn’t specifically cater to youth businesses, but the warmth and support we’ve received have been incredible. From Saturday School to the UPS Launch Pad, our family has been deeply enriched.”
Celebrating Financial Literacy Month with Impact
This April, I Got Bank facilitated a free webinar with the Atlanta Black Chambers Money Team, receiving glowing feedback from students and parents alike. “We hear stories of kids going home and having real conversations with their parents about wealth,” Zion says. “That’s the impact we want.”
They’ll also lead an in-person workshop at Cobb County Recreation Center on May 10, continuing their mission to equip kids with the language and tools of wealth early on.
What’s Next?
As the sisters grow, so does the business. “We’re planning to release a new version of our workbook, deliver more workshops, and build our presence online,” Sariel says. You can follow them @IGotBank on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube—or visit igotbank.education to explore their resources.
And their advice to parents and educators?
“Don’t forget they’re kids—make it fun. Let them manage their own money, and talk to them about bills and careers,” says Zion. “Or send them to one of our workshops—we’ve got it covered.”
Final Words of Wisdom
Before signing off, Zion dropped a quote she’s been waiting to share:
“Stay substantial. Be financial.”
At RICE, we couldn’t be prouder to support this next generation of founders. I Got Bank is more than a business, it’s a movement to build wealth early, boldly, and together. Watch this engaging video to learn more about I Got Bank, the founders, and how they are making a difference right here in the City of Atlanta.
